Screening & Diagnosis
Diagnosing autism can be challenging because there isn't a specific medical test, like a blood test, to identify it. Instead, specialists rely on a child's developmental milestones and behavioral history.
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends routine ASD screening at 18 and 24 months during well-child visits.
Developmental Screening
Developmental screening is a crucial first step, performed by doctors or nurses. This often involves research-backed questionnaires comparing a child's development to peers, covering language, movement, thinking, and emotion.
A very common tool is the Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers (M-CHAT-R/F). If your pediatrician hasn't brought this up by 18 months, you have the right to request it.
Comprehensive Diagnostic Evaluation
If screening indicates potential signs, a comprehensive evaluation is the next step. This involves a multidisciplinary team to observe interactions, play, communication, and perform parental interviews.
This evaluation utilizes standardized (non-medical) tools like the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS-2) and the Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised (ADI-R).
Who performs this evaluation?
Usually specialists such as Developmental Pediatricians, Neurologists, Child Psychologists/Psychiatrists, Speech-Language Pathologists, and Occupational Therapists.
Ruling Out Other Conditions
Many behaviors associated with autism can overlap with other disorders. Because of this, certain medical tests (like hearing/vision tests or genetic screening) might be ordered to identify or rule out physiological causes for exhibited symptoms.