Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder Associated with Autism Spectrum Disorder: Literature Review and Case Illustrations

Abstract

Introduction: Irritability has become increasingly prevalent over the past few decades and is often seen in both children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and disruptive mood dysregulation disorder (DMDD). Despite this overlap, there has been scant research on treatment for irritability experienced by individuals with co-occurring ASD and DMDD. Objectives: This paper aims to explore the development of DMDD and to shed light on potential treatment regimens that address irritability through case illustrations of individuals who experience co-occurring ASD and DMDD. Methods: Three patients seen through a specialty clinic were selected based on their co-occurring diagnoses of ASD & DMDD. Conclusions: The case illustrations showed that ASD and DMDD often also occurred in the presence of other disorders. Antipsychotics and CBT have shown the most benefits, but mood stabilizers are becoming more prominent for certain combinations of ASD and DMDD. More research is needed on treatment for irritability across co-occurring disorders.