Neuropsychology Central

[ANITHA]

My daughter has been diagnosed with mild PDD by Neurologist. Can anyone explain what steps should be taken next and is there any chance for cure or improvement

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You might get more replies if you post in the pediatric support forum too, but basically, "PDD" is a general term for a variety of presenting difficulties. I'd say the room for improvement depends on the particular symptoms, and the approach to treatment would depend on the child (for example, her age could play a role). If the diagnosis was made by a neurologist, perhaps they based it on delayed milestones and similar criteria. If behavior was not a focus of the assessment or the resulting report, you might want to have a pediatric psychologist or neuropsychologist evaluate behavioral and/or cognitive symptoms as well. For example, generally, intervention may be appropriate with the child to improve social interaction or with the parent to teach helpful behavior management techniques, again depending on the type and extent of the difficulties. There's no "PDD pill," but there are often ways to make life easier for the child and the parents. The neurologist may be able to make an appropriate referral for you; if this is an avenue you'd want to explore then I'd recommend asking. Good luck!

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Lee Ashendorf, M.A.
Doctoral Candidate
University at Albany, SUNY
Co-Webmaster, Neuropsychology Central