EFFECTIVE EDUCATIONAL AND PHARMACOLOGICAL INTERVENTIONS

Autistic spectrum disorders (ASD) present with a heterogeneous array of symptoms, and thus, an effective treatment plan must be individualized, multimodal, multidisciplinary, rational and evidence-based, encompassing remediation of skill deficits, targeted behavioral management, and enhancement of an individual's quality of life. Initially, a complete medical and neurological evaluation is necessary to identify any potential underlying and identifiable medical mechanisms that are treatable. A thorough assessment of a child's cognitive abilities, social-communication skills, and a functional analysis of aberrant behaviors will allow the formulation of a comprehensive and effective therapy plan. Medications can be very useful adjunctive treatments, but potential undesirable side-effects and toxicities warrant consideration. Clinicians need to be well informed of the alternative and complementary approaches advocated for the treatment of autism and need to discuss the limitations and potential economic and human costs of these interventions with families. Evidence is mounting that earlier interventions result in more favorable long-term outcomes, so it is incumbent upon the medical and professional community to be knowledgeable about the early identification of ASD. Overall, there is a need for additional methodologically-sound research determining the relative efficacy and safety of various behavioral, educational and pharmacological treatment approaches, based on appropriate and relevant outcome measures.