[Identification and early diagnosis of the autistic spectrum disorders]

To review the empirical evidence and recommendations for early identification and diagnosis of autistic spectrum disorders (ASD).

ASD often remains unrecognized and undiagnosed until late preschool age. A significant delay of almost 3 years was reported between parents' initial concerns about their child and the age of diagnosis. Some research provides further evidence that signs of ASD are evident in the first 2 years of life. The importance of early diagnosis is that it opens the door to early intervention programs which are essentials for the future of these children. Early diagnosis can be facilitated most effectively if early detection is made possible. Progress has recently been made in the earlier identification of children with ASD. Recent researches have identified early behavioural difficulties in social reciprocity, joint attention, theory of mind, gaze engagement, social referencing and hypersensitivity to sound. Professionals need to be aware and sensitive to these behavioural patterns. Their identification would increase the likelihood of a reliable early diagnosis.

At present, it is possible to make earlier diagnosis of ASD. It is important that health and education professionals in childhood know several early manifestations of ASD.