A 3-year-old child has no meaningful speech, avoids eye contact, does not respond to his name, engages in repetitive hand-flapping, and plays with toys in an unusual, repetitive manner. Which of the following BEST characterizes this child's condition?

• A Intellectual Disability (Mental Retardation)
• B Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) ✓
• C Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
• D Specific Language Impairment

Explanation

The triad of impaired social communication (no eye contact, no response to name), restricted/repetitive behaviors (hand-flapping, unusual play), and absent/delayed speech defines Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). DSM-5 requires deficits in social communication AND restricted/repetitive behaviors. Unlike intellectual disability, language delay is disproportionate to overall development. Early intensive behavioral intervention (ABA therapy) before age 3 significantly improves outcomes. Hearing evaluation is essential to rule out deafness.

Reference: Ghai Essential Pediatrics, 10th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.