Neurodevelopmental and Neurocognitive Disorders: ADHD, Autism, and Dementia

What are neurodevelopmental disorders?

Conditions that emerge during the developing years and can slow neurological growth or interfere with cognitive or social milestones.

What are neurocognitive disorders?

Cognitive declines that typically appear later in life, arising from medical conditions or substance withdrawal/intoxication.

What are the two main categories of neurocognitive disorders in DSM-5?

Minor and major neurocognitive disorders.

What is Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)?

A disorder characterized by patterns of inattentiveness or disruptive hyperactivity/impulsivity.

What is the diagnostic criterion for ADHD?

Six or more symptoms for at least six months prior to age 12.

What is the prevalence of ADHD in the US?

As high as 8 percent of kids are diagnosed each year.

Which gender is more likely to show symptoms of ADHD?

Boys are twice as likely to show symptoms as girls.

What are common biological treatments for ADHD?

Stimulant medications such as Ritalin, Adderall, and Dexedrine.

What is a cognitive-behavioral treatment for ADHD?

Behavioral approaches that focus on reinforcement of appropriate and prosocial behaviors.

What is EndeavorRX?

A game-based treatment developed for children aged 8 to 12 who have ADHD.

How do sociocultural factors influence ADHD?

Parenting styles and the likelihood of a parent having ADHD can affect diagnosis and treatment.

What is delirium?

A neurocognitive disorder characterized by a sudden change in attention and awareness.

What distinguishes major from minor neurocognitive disorders?

Major disorders involve significant cognitive decline affecting daily functioning, while minor disorders do not.

What is the etiology of autism spectrum disorder?

The exact cause is unknown, but it involves genetic and environmental factors.

What are the main features of intellectual developmental disorder?

Deficits in intellectual functioning and adaptive behavior.

What are the severity levels of intellectual developmental disorder?

Mild, moderate, severe, and profound.

What is the role of the DSM-5 in diagnosing neurocognitive disorders?

It provides criteria for categorizing and diagnosing these disorders based on symptom type and severity.

What is the significance of early diagnosis in neurodevelopmental disorders?

Early diagnosis can lead to timely interventions that improve outcomes.

What are common misconceptions about ADHD in lower-income countries?

ADHD may be underdiagnosed in these regions, not necessarily less prevalent.

What is the impact of ADHD on social milestones?

ADHD can interfere with the achievement of social milestones due to attention and impulse control challenges.

What is the importance of understanding the etiology of neurodevelopmental disorders?

helps in developing effective treatments and interventions.

What is Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)?

A neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by deficits in social communication and interactions, along with restricted and repetitive behaviors.

What are the main symptom categories of Autism Spectrum Disorder?

Deficits in social communication and interactions, and restricted, repetitive behaviors, interests, and activities.

What is the current prevalence rate of Autism Spectrum Disorder in the US?

1 out of every 36 children (2.8%).

What is Intellectual Developmental Disorder (IDD)?

A disorder consisting of deficits in general mental abilities across a wide range of domains, impacting intellectual functioning and adaptive functioning.

What are the domains of adaptive functioning in IDD?

Conceptual skills, social skills, and practical skills.

What are some biological factors that can contribute to Intellectual Developmental Disorder?

Chromosomal disorders, toxins, infections, brain injuries, and nutritional deficits.

What are the types of delirium?

Hyperactive delirium (overactivity), hypoactive delirium (underactivity), and mixed delirium (alternating between both).

What is the difference between mild and major neurocognitive disorders?

Mild involves noticeable memory and cognitive deficits without significant impairment, while major includes cognitive declines that lead to impairment (formerly known as dementia).

What are common symptoms of neurocognitive disorder due to Alzheimer's disease?

Loss of thinking and language skills, changes in personality and mood, and significant memory loss.

What is the estimated percentage of neurocognitive disorders caused by Alzheimer's disease?

60 to 80 percent.

What are some other forms of neurocognitive disorders?

Vascular neurocognitive disorder, frontotemporal neurocognitive disorder, Huntington's disease, Parkinson's disease, Lewy body disease, and head trauma-related disorders.

What role does acetylcholine play in neurocognitive disorders?

a neurotransmitter that has been explored in the context of NCDs, with medications used to address symptoms by preventing its breakdown.

What are some interventions for managing symptoms of neurocognitive disorders?

Smart home technology, physical activity, and caregiver support strategies.

What sociocultural factors affect the prevalence of neurocognitive disorders?

Women have a higher rate due to longer life expectancy, and Black Americans may have a higher rate due to underlying medical conditions.

What are some self-soothing behaviors associated with Autism Spectrum Disorder?

Repetitive motor actions and preoccupation with objects.

What is the significance of the genetic component in Autism Spectrum Disorder?

Individuals with a sibling with ASD are fifty times more likely to have it.

What are the implications of the increase in Autism Spectrum Disorder diagnoses over the last 30 years?

It reflects better diagnostic understanding and the inclusion of other conditions in the spectrum.

What are some psychological treatments for Intellectual Developmental Disorder?

Behavioral strategies that reduce negative, harmful behaviors.

What is the impact of delirium on hospital admissions?

Up to 30 percent of hospital admissions may experience delirium.

What is the typical onset and resolution pattern of delirium?

Delirium has a sudden onset and often a rapid resolution.

What is the role of environmental stimuli in Autism Spectrum Disorder?

Individuals may have abnormal responses to environmental stimuli.

What is the importance of adaptive functioning in assessing IDD?

helps determine the extent of disability and necessary support.

What are some common symptoms of major neurocognitive disorder?

Problems with memory, attention, perception, decision making, language, and awareness.

What are the challenges in diagnosing delirium?

Its acute nature makes prevalence difficult to establish.

What is the significance of early-onset Alzheimer's disease?

Symptoms can appear in individuals in their 40s and 50s.

What are some treatments for delirium?

Addressing the underlying medical issue and managing individual symptoms.

What are assistive communication devices used for in the context of Autism Spectrum Disorder?

They help improve communication for individuals with ASD.

What is the role of school-based programs in treating Autism Spectrum Disorder?

They provide structured support and interventions for affected children.

What is the impact of caregiver strain in neurocognitive disorders?

It can be a serious problem for families caring for individuals with NCDs.