Children with autism spectrum disorders and intellectual disability

Abstract

Purpose of review: The present article reviews the increasing literature on comorbidity, treatment and use of health service resources for children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorders and intellectual disability from January 2006 to January 2007.

Recent findings: Children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorders and intellectual disability have a high prevalence of attention-deficit/hyperactive disorder, mood disorders, catatonia and repetitive behaviours compared with children without autism. Psychopharmacology is effective in reducing symptoms of behavioural problems and attention-deficit/hyperactive disorder, although further studies are required. Autism spectrum disorders are recognized to occur with Smith-Lemli-Optiz syndrome and 22q11.2 deletion syndrome. Children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorders have a high use of mental health services.

Summary: There is increasing evidence of the comorbidity of psychiatric and behavioural disorders in young people with autism spectrum disorders and intellectual disability responding to established treatments. This high morbidity results in increased healthcare expenditure compared with children without autism and intellectual disability.