Outpatient neuropsychiatric consultation in a pediatric hospital. Clinical considerations
Bargagna, S.; Millepiedi, S.; Floriani, C.; Costagli, C.; Massei, F.
Minerva Pediatrica 51(6): 205-212
1999
ISSN/ISBN: 0026-4946 PMID: 10544634 Document Number: 506002
In this study, personal experience as neuropsychiatric consultants in a pediatric hospital is reported. Infancy and adolescence neuropsychiatrics' and pediatricians' common aim is to evaluate a child in his entirety and to protect his physical and mental health. 327 patients (147 males and 180 females) aged ranged 0 to 18 years, address to hospital by their pediatricians from January 1993 to January 1998 have been evaluated. Mental disorders have been diagnosed in 95% of the examined population (mental disorders classified by DSM IV criteria) the way in which mental disorders were distributed according to age and sex has been analyzed, and the therapeutic approaches discussed. Neuropsychiatric advice is requested especially for somatic and developmental disorders. Sex distribution is equal, apart from conduct disorders and pervasive developmental disorders, which are more frequent in males. Somatic, anxiety and mood disorders are more evident in children older than 6 years, developmental and neurological disorders are more evident in younger children. Outpatient advice is a valid help to screen neuropsychiatric disorders and it offers the possibility to carry out short and effective evaluations and controls with a significant reduction of costs for medical assistance.