Improving the Dermatologic Care of Individuals with Autism: A Review of Relevant Issues and a Perspective

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that effects verbal and nonverbal communication and social cognition and often presents with altered sensory processing, stereotyped behavior, and restricted interests. The prevalence of this diagnosis has increased markedly over the past two decades. Dermatologists undoubtedly will be evaluating and managing more patients with this diagnosis, but there has been little written regarding the dermatologic care of patients with ASD. Difficulties with communication and sensory processing create significant challenges in clinical evaluation and management. Individuals with ASD are also at higher risk for certain dermatologic conditions. This review is intended to build an awareness of the complexity of caring for individuals with ASD and discuss strategies that can help improve the dermatologic care of these patients.