title: The otological manifestations associated with autistic spectrum disorders.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  To elucidate the otological manifestations found in this increasingly commonly diagnosed condition. This paper will discuss the diagnosis, aetiology, pathogenesis, management and the outcomes of treatment.
  
  
  METHODS
  Systematic literature review.
  
  
  METHODS
  The following databases were searched for articles pertaining to the otological manifestations of autistic spectrum disorders: MEDLINE, EMBASE, CURRENT CONTENTS, PSYCHLIT, CINAHL and HEALTHSTAR. Articles from 1965 to June 2012 were extracted. Relevant articles from the literature were selected and reviewed by two independent authors. Each paper was assessed as to its level of evidence and validity. The relevant results are presented and discussed in order to present a practical approach to the management of these patients.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Patients with ASD have an increased incidence of peripheral and central otological pathology. This pathology plays a key role in the behavioural, communication, and social aspects of the disease. ASD patients have a higher incidence of profound sensorineural hearing loss, middle ear infections, and abnormalities of the cochlear nerve and brainstem auditory pathways. There are cortical and brainstem neurodevelopmental abnormalities in the way auditory information is interpreted and processed in the ASD patient.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  The otolaryngologist plays a key role in the multidisciplinary management of individuals with ASD due to the high prevalence of otological pathology amongst these patients. Early diagnosis and expedient treatment focusing on normalisation of auditory input and development can maximise developmental outcomes.
authors.affiliation: Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Nepean Hospital Sydney, The University of Sydney, Australia. ronald_y_chin@yahoo.co.uk
authors.forename: R Y
authors.initials: RY
authors.lastname: Chin
authors.forename: T
authors.initials: T
authors.lastname: Moran
authors.forename: J E
authors.initials: JE
authors.lastname: Fenton
mesh_terms: D002648:Child; D002659:Child Development Disorders, Pervasive / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000209:etiology / Q000628:therapy; D019929:Cochlear Implantation; D018479:Early Intervention, Educational; D006311:Hearing Disorders / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000628:therapy; D006801:Humans