Chronic Paediatric Conditions — Flashcards

Flashcard 71: What are 2 aspects of non-pharmoclogical therapy for ASD? _____

Answer: Early educational & social interventions + family support & counselling

Flashcard 72: What is the first-line pharmacotherapy for ADHD? _____

Answer: Methylphenidate

Flashcard 73: Before starting ADHD medication (methylphenidate), a baseline _____ should only be performed if cardiac risk factors are present

Answer: ECG

Flashcard 74: What is the first-line pharmacological treatment for irritability and associated behaviors (e.g., aggression, repetitive stereotypies) in ASD?\n_____

Answer: Atypical antipsychotics (e.g., Risperidone, Aripiprazole)

Extra: Risperidone and Aripiprazole are the only FDA-approved medications for irritability associated with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). SSRIs may be used for comorbid anxiety or OCD-like symptoms but are not first-line for core symptoms and carry a risk of behavioral activation.

Flashcard 75: Treatment of ASD requires a very comprehensive approach of mostly _____ treatment

Answer: non-pharmacological

Flashcard 76: ADHD symptoms typically emerge between ages _____ but may go unnoticed, especially in cases without prominent hyperactivity.

Answer: 3-6

Flashcard 77: Symptoms of ADHD should be present in ≥ _____

Answer: two settings - e.g. school, home, or work

Flashcard 78: ASD main clinical features include _____ + repetitive behaviours & interests

Answer: impaired social interaction & communication

Flashcard 79: What is the first step of a suspected ADHD diagnosis !before! referring to secondary care? _____

Answer: 10-week watchful waiting to see if symptoms persist

Flashcard 80: Other causes should be excluded to diagnose ADHD e.g. _____

Answer: absence seizures, learning difficulties, oppositional defiant disorder, anxiety, depression, & thyroid disorders