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- Title
INSIGHTS INTO ASD AND ADHD: A CASE STUDY IN PEDIATRIC PSYCHIATRY.
- Authors
Catană, Daria-Stefania; Stefaroi, Andreea; Elisei, Octavian Alexandru; Sarmasan, Paul; Ilaşcu, Laura
- Abstract
Introduction: Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) are increasingly prevalent in child and adolescent psychiatry, characterized by early-onset developmental deficits in social communication and repetitive behaviors. According to CDC data from 2014, ASD affects 1 in 68 children. Given the absence of curative medication, this study aims to highlight the importance of diagnosis by presenting a case study involving a 6-year-old child with autism and subsequently diagnosed with ADHD. Case Report: The patient, accompanied by both parents, presented at the Pediatric Psychiatry Clinic within the Saint Mary Emergency Children Hospital. The child exhibited difficulties in school integration, social interaction, sleep disturbances, psychomotor agitation, attention deficit, and both selfand hetero-aggression with minimal frustration. Additionally, stereotypical movements, increased adherence to nonfunctional rituals, and hyperreactivity to various sounds were observed. The child had been diagnosed with ASD at the age of 3 years and 6 months and had received Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy. A confirmatory diagnosis of ASD in association with ADHD and Mild Intellectual Disability was made according to DSM-5 criteria. Discussions : The patient was closely monitored by a psychiatrist for the following 6 months. Methylphenidate for ADHD (18mg/day) was initiated, along with a short period of treatment with risperidone (0.50 mg/day) and melatonin (2mg, 30 minutes before bedtime). Additionally, ABA therapy was continued in conjunction with play therapy, music therapy, and sensory integration therapy (especially auditory). Results were gradually positive, with the child successfully continuing school with the assistance of a tutor. Conclusions: Early diagnosis and intervention are essential in managing ASD and ADHD effectively. A multidisciplinary approach involving medication, therapy, and parental support can significantly improve outcomes for children with these neurodevelopmental disorders. Further research and continuous evaluation of treatment strategies are necessary to optimize interventions and enhance the quality of life for affected individuals and their families.
- Subjects
ROMANIA; TREATMENT of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder; TREATMENT of autism; ATTENTION-deficit hyperactivity disorder; AUTISM; CONFERENCES &; conventions; INTELLECTUAL disabilities; COMBINED modality therapy; ASPERGER'S syndrome; METHYLPHENIDATE; BEHAVIOR therapy
- Publication
Acta Marisiensis. Seria Medica, 2024, Vol 70, p353
- ISSN
2668-7755
- Publication type
Article