Therapeutic interventions in autism: a review for primary care physicians

Abstract

Autism spectrum disorders are characterized by impairments in social interaction, communication, and repetitive and stereotyped interests with onset in infancy. Early identification allows the possibility of early intervention, for the ultimate purpose of optimizing quality of life and functional independence. Early implementation of educational interventions are a core component of treatment, along with management of medical comorbidities and psychopharmacology, which we will review. Alternative therapies are frequently utilized, of which the clinician needs to be aware.