Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): The Daily PANCE Blueprint
A 4-year-old boy is brought to the pediatrician by his parents due to concerns about his development. They report that he has difficulty making eye contact, does not respond to his name, and shows little interest in playing with other children. His speech development is delayed, and he often repeats phrases from television shows. He has a habit of lining up his toys in a specific order and becomes upset if the order is disrupted. His parents also note that he has a strong aversion to certain food textures. His physical examination and routine laboratory tests are unremarkable. Which of the following is the most appropriate next step in management?
A. Initiate methylphenidate therapy for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
B. Refer to a child neurologist for possible seizure disorder.
C. Begin an individualized behavioral and educational intervention program.
D. Prescribe risperidone for behavioral control.
E. Recommend a gluten-free, casein-free diet.
Smarty PANCE Content Blueprint Review:
Covered under ⇒ PANCE Blueprint Psychiatry ⇒ Neurodevelopmental disorders ⇒ Autism spectrum disorder
Also covered as part of the Pediatric EOR and Psychiatry EOR topic lists