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Testing Sensory and Multisensory Function in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder
Published on: April 22, 2015
Autistic spectrum disorders. 1: Presentation and assessment
Alice Jones1, Christine Cork, Uttom Chowdhury
1SGDP Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, London.
Insights
Autistic spectrum disorder (ASD) affects up to 6 in 1000 children, causing social communication difficulties. This article clarifies distinctions between autism, Asperger's syndrome, and pervasive developmental disorder, aiding accurate diagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Child Psychology
- Developmental Neuroscience
- Clinical Pediatrics
Background:
- Autistic spectrum disorder (ASD) impacts approximately 6 in 1000 children globally.
- Core characteristics include social communication impairments and restricted, repetitive behaviors.
- Understanding diagnostic distinctions is crucial for effective intervention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To differentiate between autism, Asperger's syndrome, and pervasive developmental disorder (PDD).
- To outline essential components of ASD assessment.
- To highlight the importance of considering differential diagnoses and associated conditions.
Main Methods:
- Review of diagnostic criteria for ASD subtypes.
- Analysis of developmental history and behavioral observation in assessment.
- Inclusion of school reports and strength-based profiling.
Main Results:
- Clear distinctions are drawn between autism, Asperger's syndrome, and PDD.
- A comprehensive assessment framework is proposed.
- Emphasis is placed on differential diagnosis and associated conditions.
Conclusions:
- Accurate differentiation of ASD subtypes is vital for tailored support.
- A multi-faceted assessment approach ensures a holistic understanding of the child's needs.
- Further discussion on differential diagnoses, management, and etiology is forthcoming.
Abstract:
As many as six in every 1000 children may be affected by an autistic spectrum disorder. Characterised by a triad of social communication difficulties, these children exhibit impairment in communication and socialisation, and restricted and repetitive interests, movements and activities. This article will discuss the distinction between autism, Asperger's syndrome and pervasive developmental disorder. Assessment should include a history of the child's development, observation, school report and a profile of the child's strengths and weaknesses. However, it is important that potential differential diagnoses as well as conditions associated with autism are also considered. Differential diagnoses, management and possible causes of autistic spectrum disorders will be discussed in more detail in next month's Clinical Updates.
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