Even though a child may receive an ASD diagnosis from a subspecialty group, the PCP/health provider typically continues the medical management of children after they receive a developmental/ASD evaluation.  Just like children without developmental concerns, children with developmental issues/ASD should receive routine medical care such as medical check-up, immunizations, dental care, etc.  In some ways, it is even more important for children with ASD to have routine medical care since they may not be able to communicate problems to adults.

 

The research has shown us that there are some medical co-morbidities that are seen more frequently for children diagnosed with ASD.  If you are the medical home for a child with ASD, it will be important for you to have education for yourself about these conditions and information for families.  The following medical issues have been shown to be associated with an ASD diagnosis:

 

Seizures

GI issues/feeding issues

Sleep disorders

Behavioral Issues/Attention Issues

 
Resources for you:

Here are links to some articles that can give guidance in treating these conditions for your patients:

 

 

 

 

 

Here are some references to journal articles that also will be helpful:

 

Myers SM, Johnson CP.  Management of children with autism spectrum disorders.  Pediatrics.  2007 Oct; 120(5): 1162-1182. 

 

 Buie T, Fuchs GJ, Furuta GT, Kooro K, Levy J, Lewis LD, et al.  Recommendations for evaluation and treatment of common gastrointestinal problems in children with ASDs.  Pediatrics.  2010 Jan; 125(Supplement 1):S19-S29. 

 

McGuire K, Fung LK, Hagopian L, Vasa RA, Mahajan R, Bernal P et al.  Irritability and problem behavior in autism spectrum disorder: A practice pathway for pediatric primary care.  Pediatrics.  2016 Feb;137 (Supplement 2):S136-148.

 

 Malow BA, Katz T, Reynolds AM, Shui A, Carno M, Connolly HV, et al. Sleep difficulties and medications in children with autism spectrum disorders: A registry study.  Pediatrics.  2016 Feb;137(Supplement 2):S105-S114.