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The interface of paediatric ENT and autism spectrum disorder: a complex conundrum for otolaryngologists
1University of Manchester Medical School, Manchester, UK.
Insights
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) often presents with sensory and auditory symptoms that ENT specialists may overlook. Better understanding of ASD by otolaryngologists is crucial for improved diagnosis and care of autistic children.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Neurodevelopmental Disorders
- Audiology
Background:
- Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition with diverse physical and neurological manifestations.
- Sensory symptoms are common in ASD, yet their specific presentation to Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) specialists is often not fully appreciated.
- The interface between ASD and pediatric otolaryngology requires further exploration.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the existing literature on the relationship between autism spectrum disorder and pediatric otolaryngology.
- To highlight the importance of recognizing sensory and auditory symptoms in autistic children within the ENT context.
- To emphasize the need for enhanced understanding of ASD among otolaryngologists.
Main Methods:
- A systematic literature search and review was performed adhering to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines.
- Two researchers conducted the review process.
- Thirty-four relevant papers were selected for the final analysis.
Main Results:
- Published literature indicates that auditory and other sensory symptoms associated with ASD can be present in ways that ENT surgeons and audiologists may not fully recognize.
- Despite evidence linking ASD and auditory issues, conditions like hearing loss and auditory processing disorders in autistic individuals remain poorly understood.
- There is a clear need for ENT professionals to better comprehend the multifaceted nature of ASD.
Conclusions:
- Enhanced recognition and understanding of ASD by otolaryngologists can lead to more effective diagnostic and management strategies for autistic children with sensory and auditory symptoms.
- Given the rising prevalence of ASD, further research into this area is urgently needed.
- Improved collaboration between developmental specialists and ENT professionals is essential for optimal patient care.
Objective:
Autism spectrum disorder is a lifelong neurodevelopmental condition encompassing complex physical and neurological symptoms, including complex sensory symptoms. This review explores the interface between autism spectrum disorder and paediatric ENT.
Methods:
Using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses ('PRISMA') guideline, a robust literature search and review was conducted by two researchers. Thirty-four papers were filtered into the final review.
Results:
Published literature clearly demonstrates potential for autism spectrum disorder to present in the form of auditory and other sensory symptoms to ENT surgeons and audiologists who may not fully appreciate this complex condition. Despite this well-documented link, auditory symptoms, auditory processing disorders and hearing loss within autism spectrum disorder remain poorly understood.
Conclusion:
Improved recognition and understanding of autism spectrum disorder by otolaryngologists could enable more effective diagnostic and management strategies for autistic children who present with auditory and other sensory symptoms. In light of the current 'autism epidemic,' there is an urgent need for further research on this theme.
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