Autism spectrum disorder

Abstract

There is increasing consensus that autism spectrum disorder (ASD) can no longer be regarded as rare. Over the past ten years, ASD prevalence rates have increased dramatically. Despite increasing awareness, however, there remains a dearth of diagnostic and evaluation services for children with ASD, and an even more serious lack of services for adults with ASD. In the Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders, 5th edition (DSM-5), diagnostic criteria include persistent social communication impairment, and restricted and repetitive patterns of behavior. Clinicians also rate the severity of these deficits, based upon what level of support they require rather than upon symptom severity per se. Essential elements of practices are that they be person-centered and individualized. The goals of this chapter are to elucidate the physician’s role in the management of children and adults with ASD, especially the recognition that co-occurring medical and psychiatric conditions must be effectively diagnosed and treated. Support for the family is central to the care of the individual impacted with ASD.