O papel do otorrinolaringologista no diagnóstico do autismo

Abstract

In this final work of bibliography review in Autism’s specialization by UFMG, concluded in April 2022, hearing, speech, breathing and sleep disorders and its relationship with autism are discussed. Goal: This works aims to alert professionals involved in diagnosis from autism about the importance of identifying the most common otologic, language, respiratory and sleep disorders. Methods: For a systematic review, this work was divided into four sections. Each of these sections will point out the typical disorders in autism and explain its relationship with the diagnostic. Results: The following points could be observed: 1. The results obtained in many hearing tests from autistic children were, in most cases, equivalent to those presented by typically developing children. Instead of a specific deficit in the auditory function of autistic children located at the level of the middle ear or cochlea, emerging evidence suggests that atypical behaviors in response to sound represents a perceptual disorder mediated at higher levels of the auditory system. 2. Researches that reveals that language acquisition is almost always significantly delayed in autistic children will be here mentioned. Although it may happen that autistic children begin to speak later, the absence of language acquisition by age 5 can be considered as an element of bad prognosis regarding the linguistic possibilities and further cognitive. 3. There are studies about Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) and its relationship with autism. In this work studies show improvement in OSA, as measured by the reduction in the mean AHI (index apnea/hypopnea), and improved quality of life and behavior assessment after adenotonsillectomy. 4. Several studies point behaviors associated with autism including aggression and hyperactivity, which can be exacerbated by reduced sleep. 5. Studies show that vestibular involvement in autism is not as evident as hearing issues. Vestibular issues are rarely reported in autistic children and can not be recognized.