Children's Memorial Hermann Hospital
Approximately 1 in 150 children will be diagnosed with autism, Asperger Disorder or Pervasive Developmental Disorder. Despite the sharp increase in the prevalence of these disorders, the etiology (cause) is not known.
Medical research has identified known metabolic and neurological disorders that are associated with autism. For example, recent studies have suggested that up 10 percent of children with autism might have an underlying mitochondrial disorder. Neurophysiological studies have estimated that anywhere from 10 percent to 80 percent of children with these disorders may have underlying subclinical seizures.
We are only beginning to understand the significance of the medical and neurological disorders associated with autism. This may be due to the fact that the majority of children with autism do not receive a medical or neurological examination for underlying disorders. The Medically Based Autism Clinic offers a comprehensive work-up for associated treatable disorders associated with autism, as well as management of the medical problems associated with autism.
Novel research and treatment protocols are ongoing. Coordination with other medical services, including pediatric gastroenterology, ensure comprehensive medical care.
The clinic is held on the 3rd Wednesday of the month in the Child and Adolescent Neurology Clinic in the University of Texas Professional Building in the Texas Medical Center.
To schedule an appointment, contact the Pediatric Neurology Clinic 832.325.7151.