Mood Disorders Comorbid with Autism Spectrum Disorders

Mood disorders in individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) are often associated with aggression and self-injury (Hellings, 1999).  Bipolar disorders are often missed or are misdiagnosed and treated as Depressive Disorders, as occurs in the general population.  An Expert Consensus Guidelines (2000) review found that valproic acid, other mood stabilizers and antipsychotics are most commonly prescribed by experts treating adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities and behavior problems including aggression.  Additionally, treatment response appears significantly slower and side effects greater than in the general population.  Studies of the neurobiology of these conditions, including genetics, imaging and treatment responses are urgently needed.
            A case study of severe recurrent mania with psychosis will be presented to illustrate diagnostic, treatment and response issues.  An overview of clinical presentations, neurobiology and any genetic studies of individuals with ASD and mood disorders will be provided.  Diagnostic pitfalls, including missed ADHD, will be included. 
           Treatment studies, including the negative valproic acid study for aggression in youth with ASD (Hellings et al., 2005) will be reviewed. Risperidone efficacy and side effects in this population will be discussed.  Future research directions will be discussed.