The neuropathology, medical management and dental implications of autism.

Background: A paucity of information exists in the dental literature about autism and its dental implications.

Types Of Studies Reviewed: The authors conducted a MEDLINE search for the period 2000 through 2006, using the term "autism," with the aim of defining the condition's clinical manifestations, dental and medical treatment and dental implications.

Results: Autism is a severe developmental brain disorder that appears in infancy, persists throughout life, and is characterized by impaired social interaction, abnormalities in communication (both verbal and nonverbal) and restricted interests.

The pathophysiology, medical management and dental implications of fragile X, Rett, and Prader-Willi syndromes.

Fragile X, Rett, and Prader-Willi syndromes are a group of inherited disorders that often present with varying degrees of mental retardation and challenging behaviors. Dentists caring for individuals with these disorders must be familiar with the manifestations of these diseases and their associated features so they can garner the maximum level of cooperation from the patient. They must also be familiar with the medications (anticonvulsants, antihypertensives, antidepressants, antipsychotics, and central nervous system stimulants) used to treat the associated behaviors, because many of these pharmaceuticals cause clinically evident orofacial and systemic reactions, and may precipitate adverse interactions with dental therapeutic agents.

The pathophysiology, medical management, and dental implications of autism.

Autism is a lifelong, severe, developmental disorder that appears initially in infancy and early childhood and impairs the acquisition of some of the most important skills in human life. The disease is characterized by impaired social interactions, verbal and nonverbal communication deficiencies, limited activities and interest, and repetitive behaviors. Often accompanying the disorder are behavioral disturbances, such as self-mutilation and aggression, psychiatric symptoms, and seizures, which necessitate the administration of multiple medications to help the affected individual participate effectively in the educational and rehabilitative process.

The pathophysiology, medical management, and dental implications of children and young adults having attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder.

Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder is considered to be the most common neurobehavioral disorder among school-aged children. Children who have ADHD exhibit symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that are extreme for their age. These symptoms adversely affect academic performance, vocational success, and social-emotional development.