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| |  New American Academy of Pediatrics Reports Help Paediatricians Identify and Manage Autism Earlier By Nora Steiner Mealy SAN FRANCISCO, CA -- November 1, 2007 -- The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) released two reports here at its National Conference and Exhibition that are designed to help paediatricians recognise autism spectrum disorders (ASD) earlier and guide families to effective interventions. The first clinical report, "Identification and Evaluation of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders," provides detailed information on signs and symptoms. Language delays usually prompt parents to raise concerns to their child's paediatrician -- usually when the child is 18 months of age. But there are subtle signs that could lead to earlier diagnosis, if detected, including failure to make eye contact and not turning to face a parent when being called by name. Newly released guidelines by the AAP recommend that doctor be on the lookout for ASD be done at every well-child visit, for example, by asking parents if they have any concerns about their child's development or behaviour. If concerns are expressed that relate to ASD, the doctor is advised to use a standardised ASD screening tool. The report also advises that all children be screened at 18 months and 24 months. Chris Plauche Johnson, MD, Clinical Professor of Pediatrics, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, Texas, United States, and Medical Director, Village of Hope Center for Children with Disabilities, is co-author of the two AAP reports. "Early intervention can make a big difference in the outcomes of these children," Dr. Johnson said. She urged paediatricians to begin to treat a child's developmental problems before there is a definitive diagnosis, as waiting time can be long for a complete specialist evaluation. The second report, entitled "Management of Children With Autism Spectrum Disorders," reviews educational strategies and associated therapies. The report recommends early, intensive intervention, with paediatricians playing an important role in providing information and access to resources. The authors advise that paediatricians stay abreast of complementary and alternative therapies, such as vitamin and mineral supplements, chelation therapy, and diet restrictions, which many families of children with ASD administer to their children. Report co-author Scott M. Myers, MD, Neurodevelopmental Paediatrician, Geisinger Medical Center, Danville, and Assistant Professor of Paediatrics, Jefferson Medical College, Philadelphia, and Adjunct Clinical Assistant Professor of Paediatrics, Temple University School of Medicine, Pennsylvania, United States, advised that it is important to remain nonjudgmental when discussing therapies even if there is disagreement about their effectiveness. "At the same time, it's also important to critically evaluate the scientific evidence of effectiveness and risk of harm, and convey this information to the families, just as one should for treatment with medication and nonmedical interventions," Dr. Myers said.
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