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| Autism and Epilepsy: Coincidence or Biomarker? |
| Saturday, January 18, 2025 |
| 9:10 AM–10:00 AM |
| Sheraton New Orleans, Level 3, Napoleon Ballroom BC |
| Area: AUT; Domain: Applied Research |
| Chair: Terry S. Falcomata (The University of Texas at Austin) |
| CE Instructor: Terry S. Falcomata, Ph.D. |
| Presenting Author: MOHAMMED ALDOSARI (Cleveland Clinic) |
| Abstract: Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and epilepsy are both neurological conditions that can significantly impact a child's development and overall well-being. While they may appear to be independent diagnoses, there is a higher co-occurrence rate than chance would predict. This presentation will explore the complex relationship between ASD and epilepsy, equipping therapists with the knowledge and tools to better support their clients who experience both conditions. The presentation will delve into the following key areas: • Prevalence and Risk Factors: We will examine the co-occurrence rates of ASD and epilepsy, exploring potential risk factors and underlying biological mechanisms. • Clinical Presentations: We will discuss the diverse ways in which epilepsy can manifest, including potential challenges in identifying and diagnosing epilepsy in individuals with ASD. • Treatment Considerations: We will explore the evidence-based practices for treating epilepsy to address the unique needs of this population. Here, we will also discuss potential side effects of anti-seizure medications and how they may impact behavior or learning, equipping applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapists to collaborate with the medical team for optimal treatment. • Emerging Technologies: We will explore the potential of using new technologies including AI analysis of EEG (electroencephalogram) data for early detection of ASD. This discussion will highlight the promise and limitations of new technologies, emphasizing their role as potential tools to support informed clinical decision-making. • Collaborative Care: We will emphasize the importance of collaboration between ABA therapists, neurologists, and other healthcare professionals in developing comprehensive treatment plans. |
| Instruction Level: Intermediate |
| Target Audience: Therapists and physicians taking care of individuals with ASD |
| Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the presentation, participants will be able to: (1) Describe the co-occurrence rates of ASD and epilepsy and identify potential risk factors for this dual diagnosis; (2) Explain the diverse clinical presentations of ASD and epilepsy, including the challenges of identifying and diagnosing co-occurring conditions; (3) Discuss evidence-based treatment approaches for both ASD and epilepsy, with a specific focus on adapting ABA therapy to meet the needs of clients with this dual diagnosis. |
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| MOHAMMED ALDOSARI (Cleveland Clinic) |
 Dr. Aldosari has been a board-certified Pediatric Neurologist since 2003 and was certified by the American Board of Pediatrics in 2002. He received his Bachelor Degree of Medicine and Surgery from King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia and he completed his first Pediatric Residency Program at King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center in Riyadh. He subsequently completed a Pediatric Residency Program and Adult Neurology Program at the University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota. Following completion of his residency training, Dr. Aldosari completed a Pediatric Neurology Fellowship Program at Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina. Dr. Aldosari began his career with an appointment as Consultant and Fellowship Program Director at the Section of Pediatric Neurology King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Center, in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. In 2007, he was promoted to Head of Section of Pediatric Neurology at King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Center. In 2012, Dr. Aldosari accepted a Pediatric Neurologist position at Mercy Pediatric Neurology &Psychiatry Center in Des Moines, Iowa. In 2014, he accepted a position at the Cleveland Clinic where he is currently, Director of the Center for Pediatric Neurosciences. He is also a Clinical Assistant Professor at the Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine of Case Western Reserve University. He also developed a large program focusing on the use of botulinum toxins to address intractable pediatric headaches and spasticity. Dr. Aldosari has a long standing interest in Autism Spectrum Disorders research and has worked with former colleagues in Riyadh to advance both their clinical and research programs. He is a member of the International Society for Autism Research as well as a member of the American Academy of Neurology. Dr. Aldosari is well published with over 30 articles and abstracts to-date. Dr. Aldosari is also a funded Autism researcher with unique projects focused on Innovative and Objective Screening and Diagnostic Tools for Autism Spectrum Disorders working with Cleveland Clinic Innovation, national and international collaborators. |
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