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Disaccharidase Deficiency in a Pediatric Patient With Autism Spectrum Disorder: Case Report.
Summary
Gastrointestinal issues are common in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). This case highlights lactase deficiency as a cause of behavioral changes in a nonverbal child with ASD, emphasizing thorough pain assessment.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Gastroenterology
- Neurodevelopmental Disorders
Background:
- Gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms are prevalent in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), occurring at significantly higher rates than in neurotypical children.
- Assessing pain and attributing new behaviors can be challenging in nonverbal or developmentally delayed children with ASD.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe a case of a 13-year-old nonverbal patient with ASD presenting with gastrointestinal concerns.
- To illustrate the diagnostic process, therapeutic interventions, and outcomes for GI issues in this population.
- To emphasize the importance of investigating underlying causes of behavioral changes in children with ASD.
Main Methods:
- A case report detailing the clinical presentation, diagnostic workup, and management of a 13-year-old nonverbal patient with ASD.
- Review of existing literature on the prevalence of GI symptoms in ASD and challenges in pain assessment.
Main Results:
- The patient was diagnosed with lactase deficiency, identified as a contributing factor to acute changes in behavior and toileting.
- The case underscores the difficulty in assessing pain in nonverbal individuals with ASD.
Conclusions:
- Lactase deficiency can manifest as behavioral changes in nonverbal children with ASD.
- Comprehensive investigation for pain and GI issues is crucial in nonverbal or developmentally delayed children with ASD, even when behavioral changes are present.
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