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Chapter 19 Pediatric Diseases and Disorders
Chapter 19 Pediatric Diseases and Disorders
Usually the child is viewed as one who is disruptive and highly active. Another child with
ADHD might be a day dreamer. Poor concentration is a term often used to describe the patient.
This condition is difficult to diagnose as these symptoms may also be an indication of other
physical or emotional problems. If diagnosed, the patient can be treated with medication and
support by the health care team.
Autism
Autism is a brain disorder that hinders a person’s ability to communicate or relate to others. It is
thought to be a genetic disorder, as it often runs in families. This disorder can also affect how a
child understands and processes information that is sensory in nature.
Autism is usually diagnosed by the time a child reaches the age of three; however, some
cases are not diagnosed until later. Typically parents are the first to notice the signs and seek the
advice of their pediatrician. There are diagnostic guidelines that have been established by the
American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP) which the clinician will use
to determine if the child has the core symptoms of autism. Signs and symptoms may include:
Toddlers who do not begin to talk or do not interact like other children do
Little or no eye contact with others
Plays alone
Delayed language development
Repetitive patterns of behavior such as, rocking, keeping to a certain routine or ritual, and
resistance to any change
There is no “mold” that all persons with autism fit into. Some need help with the simplest
aspects of daily living, while others are able to function at a level high enough that permits them
to attend school in a regular class and participate in sports and other activities.
Treatment methods include: behavioral, speech, and occupational therapy, parent
education, and sometimes medications. Since each child with autism is different, treatment
methods are usually individualized. Collectively, most children with autism need to be in a
structured and specialized educational program in order to achieve their highest potential.
Down Syndrome
Down syndrome is a common birth defect that occurs in approximately one in every 800 to 1,000
newborns. This syndrome includes mild to moderate mental retardation and other health
problems such as cardiac valvular disease, along with specific physical characteristics which
include a sloping forehead, low-set ears, and short, broad hands.
The most common form of Down syndrome, trisomy 21, is caused by the presence of an
extra 21st chromosome. The cause of the occurrence of this extra chromosome is unknown but
appears to be related to the age of the mother and usually occurs in women over the age of 40.
Cerebral Palsy
Cerebral palsy is a term that is used to describe a range of disorders that impairs control of
movement due to damage to the brain during its developmental stage. It is one of the most
common causes of disability in children. While CP is not a progressive disease, symptoms may
get better for a time only to worsen later on. The exact cause of CP is unknown but is thought to
be related to the oxygen levels in the brain before, during, and after birth, infections, and injuries
occurring during the birth process. Children with CP not only have physical disabilities, but may
also have some level of retardation, learning disabilities, and vision, speech, hearing, and
language problems.
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