Dual Diagnosis - Down syndrome and autism: what we know and what we do not know
- Noemi Spinazzi (UCSF Benioff Children's Hospital Oakland, CA)
Correspondence: NSpinazzi@childrens-specialized.org
Down syndrome (DS) is associated with many co-occurring neurodevelopmental conditions, including autism (ASD); it is estimated that 12-41% of individuals with DS also have ASD. Our understanding of the dual diagnosis (DS+ASD) has improved over the past two decades thanks to improved recognition and expanded research efforts. This talk will review existing knowledge of DS+ASD by combining scientific research findings and clinical expertise and will include information about gender differences, co-occurring medical conditions, common presenting features, commonly used assessments, and interventions to support skill acquisition and address behavioral challenges. The talk will focus on the pediatric population, recognizing that there are many adults with DS and co-occurring ASD (diagnosed or undiagnosed) who also merit support and dedicated research.
