Early diagnosis key in rehabilitating autistic children
By Glenna Picton
The diagnosis of autism can be devastating for a family, but getting a jump-start with a prompt rehabilitation plan gives children a chance for progress down the road, said an expert at Baylor College of Medicine.
Early diagnosis and quick attention to the problem can help, said Niru Madduri, M.D., assistant professor of pediatrics – developmental pediatrics at BCM and a specialist in autism and Down syndrome. Behaviors that are defined as classic warning signs are sometimes overlooked in young children and, in some cases, autism goes undiagnosed, she said.
Treatment approaches vary
Because autism affects each individual differently and to varying degrees, there is not just one standard approach for treatment, said Madduri, also a pediatrician at the Meyer Center for Developmental Pediatrics at Texas Children's Hospital.
Madduri pointed out some classic warning signs parents should look out for.
Lack of developmental milestones:
- No babbling by 12 months
- No gesturing by 12 months
- No single words by 16 months
- No two-word spontaneous phrases by 24 months
- Loss of communication skills
Noted by 18 months:
- Inability to follow the gaze of others
- Problems with eye contact
- Problems orienting to name
- Lack of pretend play or imitation of adults
- Lack of language development without compensatory nonverbal communication methods (gestures)
Specialists available
"If the problem is diagnosed early, parents can work with specialists to devise an appropriate plan for rehabilitation for their child," said Madduri. "I believe from experience kids exhibit a lot more progress when we work with them closely on strengthening their motor and speech skills and stimulating their sensory integration."
Physical, speech and occupational therapy may help, and Madduri and her colleagues frequently refer children to specialists in these areas. "There are also a lot of helpful programs within the school system," said Madduri. "It is really important that the parent work closely with the resources they offer."
Parents concerned about a child's development should consult their pediatrician for a comprehensive evaluation, said Madduri.
"There is an increase in concern and fear among parents as more new autism findings come out," said Madduri. "We are seeing more and more parents with questions about what they are hearing."
There are conflicting messages about treating the disorder and some desperate parents are prone to try unconventional therapies, she said.
No link to diet
"A common myth is that changing your child's diet may cure autism," said Madduri. "Research continues to negate this claim."
Autism is a developmental disorder of the brain that impacts areas of social interaction and communication skills. In 2007, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found that about 1 in 150 8-year-old children in multiple areas of the United States had the disorder.
For more information on autism, visit The National Institute of Child and Human Development, the Autism Society and Autism Speaks.
