Conferring a Genetic Diagnosis for Children with Neurodevelopmental Disorders in the Inpatient Psychiatry Setting May Reduce Hospital Stays and Improve Behavior

Abstract Objectives Implementing a policy of genetic testing during a neurobehavioral psychiaty inpatient admission is an import part of clinical care delivery. We endeavor to understand behavioral outcomes after genetic testing is completed. Methods We completed a retrospective chart review on individuals receiving a clinical genetic evaluation for the indication of intellectual disability with autism and/or behavioral comorbidities during an inpatient admission to the pediatric neurobehavioral unit. Results In the cohort of 137 patients, 56 received a molecular diagnosis. On average, individuals in this diagnosed cohort had fewer inpatient hospital days after a molecular diagnosis was conferred compared to undiagnosed patients. These diagnosed patients had improvements in behavior measures, including lower scores on behavioral reactivity and self-injurious behavior severity. We present selected clinical vignettes illustrating examples of medical management changes implemented once a genetic diagnosis was delivered. Conclusion We posit that precision management of genetic syndromes may contribute to improved behavior symptoms and reduce the duration of inpatient stays for psychiatric behavioral management.