Cerebral Palsy Cerebral palsy is a neurological disorder caused by non-progressive brain injury or malformation resulting in permanent neurological damage. This occurs when the child’s brain is developing. Body movement and muscle coordination is primarily affected. The most common cause…
Refeeding syndrome Refeeding syndrome refers to complications that occur as a result of fluid and electrolyte changes during nutritional rehabilitation of severly ill and malnourished patients. One common complication is severe hypophosphatemia. The most common cause of death in refeeding…
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) ADHD is characterized by persistent inattention, hyperactivity and/or impulsivity that is inconsitent with the patient’s developmental age and results in difficulty functioning in at least two settings (at home, school or work). At least 6…
DSM-V Criteria for Autism Spectrum Disorder Persistent deficits in social communciation and social interactions across multiple contexts Restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior, interests – at least 2 of below Pervasive Developmental Disorders Autism Spectrum Disorder Autism is derived from the…
What cannot be communicated to the mother, cannot be communicated to the self – John Bowlby Changes DSM-IV to DSM-V Overview Mental health in childhood and adolescence is defined as the achievement of expected developmental, cognitive, social, and emotional milestones,…
Catha edulis Catha edulis is an amphetamine/like a drug with psychoactive + sympathomimetic effects. The main chemical component is cathinone, tannins, and norephedrine. It can be chewed or consumed as a juice, and is commonly taken with other drugs e.g.…
Cocaine Cocaine blocks the uptake of serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine in the synaptic cleft (in the reward pathway) causing a stimulant effect. Amphetamines Amphetamines block the reuptake and facilitate the release of dopamine and norepinephrine from nerve endings causing a…
Inhalants Inhalants represent a broad group of drugs which are inhaled and absorbed through the lungs. They are generally CNS depressants. Intoxication lasts 15-30 minutes and may be sustained with repeated use. Overdose may be fatal due to respiratory depression…
Nicotine Nicotine is derived from the tobacco plant. It stimulates nicotinic receptors in autonomic ganglia and is highly addictive due to its effects on the dopaminergic system. It also has prominent withdrawal symptoms. Nicotine use is not an acute problem.…
Cannabis Cannabis is the most commonly used illicit drug in the world. It is commonly used by patient who use other drugs. There is also a myth about it being a gateway drug. It is illegal in Kenya. Intoxication is…