Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 11, 2025
07:38
Strategies for Assessing Autistic-Like Behaviors in Mice
Published on: September 20, 2024
894
Misdiagnosis in an Autistic Adolescent
Madison R Casey1, Saveen Sall1, Gina Parsons1
1Department of Psychiatry, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center Shreveport, Shreveport, USA.
Cureus
|September 30, 2024
Summary
Autism characteristics can mask serious medical conditions, delaying diagnosis. This case report emphasizes investigating all clinical diagnoses, not just psychiatric ones, for better patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Psychiatry
- Developmental Pediatrics
Background:
- Increased autism diagnoses highlight the importance of understanding co-occurring mental health conditions.
- Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) can present unique challenges in symptom presentation and etiology compared to typical populations.
Observation:
- A 17-year-old male with ASD and depression was found unresponsive, initially suspected as a suicide attempt.
- Emergency medical services misinterpreted the situation due to atypical behavior potentially linked to autism.
Findings:
- A pre-existing condition, subdural empyema, was identified as the cause of seizures, not a psychiatric event.
- Autistic traits can obscure crucial clinical details, leading to diagnostic delays.
Implications:
- Healthcare providers must investigate all potential diagnoses, including non-psychiatric conditions, in autistic patients.
- Effective communication strategies are essential for accurate diagnosis and treatment in individuals with autism spectrum disorder.
- This case underscores the need for comprehensive differential diagnoses in non-responsive patients with atypical behaviors.
Related Concept Videos
01:19Autism Spectrum Disorder
74
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition marked by persistent deficits in social communication and interaction alongside restrictive and repetitive behaviors or interests. ASD is sometimes accompanied by intellectual impairment.
These core symptoms manifest differently among individuals, ranging from mild to severe. The disorder's complexity extends beyond its clinical presentation, encompassing a diverse range of biological, cognitive, and sociocultural influences.
These core symptoms manifest differently among individuals, ranging from mild to severe. The disorder's complexity extends beyond its clinical presentation, encompassing a diverse range of biological, cognitive, and sociocultural influences.
74
01:26Modeling in Therapy
56
Modeling, a key technique in therapy, uses observational learning to help clients acquire and practice new skills by watching therapists demonstrate desired behaviors. This approach, rooted in Albert Bandura's concept of vicarious learning, plays a significant role in therapeutic interventions for various psychological conditions, including social anxiety, ADHD, and depression.
Participant Modeling
Participant modeling involves therapists demonstrating calm and effective behaviors in...
Participant Modeling
Participant modeling involves therapists demonstrating calm and effective behaviors in...
56
01:30Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
47
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by persistent inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. It affects approximately 5-8% of children globally, with around 60-70% of cases persisting into adulthood. ADHD has significant implications for educational attainment, social interactions, and occupational success.
Diagnostic Criteria and Symptoms
To diagnose ADHD, symptoms must manifest before age 12 and be evident across multiple settings....
Diagnostic Criteria and Symptoms
To diagnose ADHD, symptoms must manifest before age 12 and be evident across multiple settings....
47
01:18Cognitive Development During Adolescence
47
During adolescence, individuals experience significant cognitive development that enhances their understanding of others' emotions and thoughts, known as cognitive empathy. This period is marked by an increased ability to adapt to others' perspectives and a more nuanced understanding of others' mental states, a skill that is foundational for social problem-solving and conflict avoidance. The development of cognitive empathy relies heavily on the theory of mind — the...
47
01:27Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM)
48
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) serves as the primary classification system for mental health disorders, providing standardized diagnostic criteria for clinicians and researchers. First published by the American Psychiatric Association (APA) in 1952, the DSM has undergone several revisions to reflect evolving psychiatric understanding. The fifth edition, DSM-5, released in 2013, introduced key updates that expanded diagnostic categories and modified diagnostic...
48
01:30Oppositional Defiant Disorder
23
A persistent pattern of angry or irritable mood, defiant behavior, or vindictiveness characterizes Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD). Symptoms must occur over at least six months, involve interactions with individuals beyond siblings, and meet specific diagnostic criteria to be clinically significant. The disorder affects emotional regulation, social interactions, and behavior, often manifesting early in life and influencing long-term development and functioning.
Diagnostic Criteria and...
Diagnostic Criteria and...
23