Paediatric Neurologists’ View on Autism | Cadabam's CDC
As a parent, you may have heard the term “paediatric neurologist” while researching autism. What exactly is a paediatric neurologists’ perspective on autism, and how can it help your child? At Cadabams CDC, our paediatric neurologists combine medical expertise with deep family-centred care to ensure every child gets the right diagnosis and the most effective treatment plan. This article walks you through their role, the evaluation process, and the advantages of choosing Cadabams CDC for neurologist-led autism care.
The Role of Paediatric Neurologists in Autism Care
A paediatric neurologist is a medical doctor who specialises in the brain, spinal cord, nerves, and muscles of children. When it comes to autism spectrum disorder (ASD), their primary role is to:
- Rule out or confirm medical conditions that mimic or co-exist with autism
- Identify neurological symptoms such as seizures, abnormal muscle tone, or motor delays
- Provide medical treatments (e.g., medication for seizures, sleep, or ADHD-like symptoms)
- Collaborate with developmental paediatricians, psychologists, and therapists for holistic care Because autism is both a neurodevelopmental and behavioural condition, a paediatric neurologists’ perspective on autism adds an essential medical lens that complements behavioural assessments.
Why Families Choose a Paediatric Neurologist for Autism Evaluation
Key Medical Conditions Neurologists Screen For
During an autism evaluation, our paediatric neurologists look for conditions that can appear similar to or worsen autism symptoms:
- Epilepsy and sub-clinical seizures
- Genetic syndromes (Fragile X, Rett syndrome, tuberous sclerosis)
- Metabolic disorders (mitochondrial disease, congenital hypothyroidism)
- Motor disorders (cerebral palsy, hypotonia)
- Sleep-related movement disorders Identifying these early prevents misdiagnosis and opens targeted treatment pathways.
Difference Between Neurologist and Developmental Paediatrician
| Role | Paediatric Neurologist | Developmental Paediatrician |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | Brain & nervous system medical issues | Overall developmental delays & behaviour |
| Tools | EEG, MRI, genetic tests | Standardised developmental checklists |
| Treatments | Medications for seizures, sleep, tics | Behavioural therapies, school plans |
| At Cadabams CDC, these two specialists work side-by-side, ensuring nothing is missed. |
When to Seek Neurologist Input
- Your child has unexplained regression in language or motor skills
- You notice repetitive movements that look like seizures
- Existing therapy progress has plateaued despite consistent sessions
- There is a family history of neurological conditions
What to Expect During the Neurologist Consultation at Cadabams CDC
Pre-visit Checklist & Documents
Bring these to your appointment:
- Pregnancy and birth history records
- Growth charts and immunisation details
- School or therapy reports (speech, OT, ABA)
- Videos of concerning behaviours (seizure-like episodes, sleep disturbances)
- Genetic test results if already done
Step-by-step Evaluation Process
- Detailed History: Parents describe developmental milestones, behavioural changes, and family medical background.
- Neurological Exam: Assessment of reflexes, muscle tone, coordination, and cranial nerves.
- Standardised Rating Scales: Tools such as CARS-2 or GARS-3 completed by parents/teachers.
- Medical Tests:
- EEG (electroencephalogram) to rule out seizure activity
- MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) to visualise brain structure
- Genetic panels to detect syndromic causes of autism
Tools & Technologies Used
- 32-channel digital EEG with video monitoring
- 3 Tesla MRI with sedation protocols designed for children
- Next-generation sequencing panels covering 200+ autism-related genes All tests are child-friendly, with play-therapy preparation sessions the day before.
Treatment Pathways: How Neurologists Collaborate in Multidisciplinary Care
Medication Management for Behavioural & Neurological Symptoms
While no medication “cures” autism, targeted prescriptions can improve quality of life:
- Melatonin or clonidine for sleep initiation
- Risperidone or aripiprazole for irritability and aggression
- Methylphenidate or atomoxetine for ADHD symptoms
- Levetiracetam or valproate for co-occurring epilepsy Our paediatric neurologists monitor side effects every 4–6 weeks and adjust doses via parent-friendly mobile apps.
Coordination with ABA, Speech & Occupational Therapists
Cadabams CDC operates unified case reviews:
- Weekly multidisciplinary team meetings
- Shared digital dashboards tracking seizure frequency, sleep hours, and therapy goals
- Quarterly progress reports emailed to parents and referring paediatricians
Family Training & Home Care Plans
Parents receive:
- Video tutorials on administering emergency seizure medication
- Custom visual schedules for bedtime routines
- 24/7 on-call nurse line for urgent queries
Benefits of Choosing Cadabams CDC for Neurologist-led Autism Care
Expert Team Profiles (Anonymised Credentials)
Our paediatric neurology team includes:
- Dr A.: MBBS, MD (Paediatrics), DM (Neurology), 15 years of experience, published 40+ papers on autism-epilepsy overlap
- Dr B.: MBBS, DCH, DNB (Paediatric Neurology), trained at Toronto SickKids, specialist in genetic epilepsies
Integrated Facility Tour
- Child-friendly waiting zones with sensory swings and bubble tubes
- Onsite EEG suite with parent viewing rooms
- Pharmacy, pathology, and therapy gyms under one roof—no hospital-hopping
Parent Testimonials & Outcomes
“Within two weeks of starting anti-epileptic medication under Cadabams CDC, my son began saying two-word phrases for the first time.” — Parent of 4-year-old, Bangalore
- 87% reduction in seizure frequency after three months (internal audit 2023)
- Average wait time for a neurologist appointment: 4 days vs 6 weeks elsewhere