Biomedical subjects

Christine Cork

Publications and source records attributed to Christine Cork.

3 recordsLinked to original sources

PubMed2006

Autistic spectrum disorders. 1: Presentation and assessment.

As many as six in every 1000 children may be affected by an autistic spectrum disorder. Characterised by a triad of social communication difficulties, these children exhibit impairment in communication and socialisation, and restricted and repetitive interests, movements and activities. This article will discuss the distinction between autism, Asperger's syndrome and pervasive developmental disorder. Assessment should include a history of the child's development, observation, school report and a profile of the child's strengths and weaknesses. However, it is important that potential differential diagnoses as well as conditions associated with autism are also considered. Differential diagnoses, management and possible causes of autistic spectrum disorders will be discussed in more detail in next month's Clinical Updates.

Asperger Syndrome↗

PubMed2006

Autistic spectrum disorders 2: diagnosis and management.

As many as six in every 1000 children may be affected by an autistic spectrum disorder. The previous article of this two-part series discussed the distinction between autism, Asperger's syndrome and pervasive developmental disorder, and examined the assessment process. This article looks at potential differential diagnoses that must be considered, as well as conditions associated with autism. Many theories about the causes of autism have been suggested, including the MMR vaccine. Recent research has suggested that there is no link between the vaccine and autism. There is no cure for autism, but intervention and management techniques should be aimed at educating parents and carers about the disorder and behavioural interventions to aid the child's skills development.

Antipsychotic Agents↗

PubMed2005

ADHD: assessment and intervention.

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common psychiatric disorders of childhood. Although there is a lot of debate and controversy over the recognition of ADHD, it is generally accepted nowadays as a clinical disorder that may warrant treatment Children with ADHD are pervasively overactive, fidgety and disruptive. They have impaired attention and concentration and are impulsive. These symptoms have serious implications for the child's relationships with parents, siblings and peers. It is important that community practitioners, school nurses, health visitors and other health professionals are able to recognise the condition and be able to make an informed clinical assessment and refer and manage accordingly. The assessment should include a clear history from parents, a school report and an individual interview with the child. An assessment of parental management is essential to avoid the child being wrongly diagnosed with the condition. The successful intervention should be aimed at educating the child and family about the disorder and psychosocial interventions that may help the family and school cope with the child. In some cases introduction of medication may be necessary.

Adrenergic alpha-Agonists↗