Autistic spectrum: An evidence-based tailor-made intervention proposal

Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are today considered a connectopathy, that is, syndromes of neurobiological origin. Neurotransmission or connections from communication, social skills and behavioral flexibility networks are impaired. Prevalence is around 0.8-1%. Pediatric professionals will necessarily be involved in the life of a child with ASD. Outcome depends not only on the biological impairment but also on the optimal treatment. The biologic specifiers that will mark the degree of the spectrum are severity of the symptoms, cognitive level, language involvement, behavioral comorbidities, neurological etiology and catatonia. Supervising optimal treatment implies early diagnosis and treatment, with an approach that includes a comprehensive behavioral intervention. In this way, more than 25% can achieve an independent life, 50% complete primary school and fewer disruptive behaviors in adult life, which allow them to continue living with their families. We describe a Latin American sample of 100 youth and adults, followed during 2 to 12 years. With early intervention, 61% completed primary school, 48% secondary school, and 18% college or technical education. Fifty percent of adults achieved employment and 24% were or have been in a relationship. It is feasible with professional help to improve autonomyand qualityof life in autism.