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Updated: May 25, 2026
09:13
Testing Sensory and Multisensory Function in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder
Published on: April 22, 2015
Diagnosing autism spectrum disorders in primary care
Clare S Allely1, Philip Wilson
1Institute of Health and Wellbeing, University of Glasgow, RHSC Yorkhill, Glasgow.
The Practitioner
|January 13, 2012
Summary
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental condition affecting social communication and behavior. Early diagnosis involves assessing behavioral symptoms using various sources, not solely specific tools.
Area of Science:
- Neurodevelopmental disorders
- Child psychology
- Clinical diagnostics
Background:
- Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is characterized by deficits in social interaction, communication, and imagination, alongside repetitive behaviors.
- Recent understanding emphasizes a core deficit in social instinct.
- ASD encompasses autism, atypical autism, and Asperger's syndrome.
Purpose of the Study:
- To outline diagnostic criteria and assessment pathways for autism spectrum disorder.
- To emphasize the importance of timely diagnosis and comprehensive evaluation.
Main Methods:
- Diagnostic assessment should commence within three months of referral, based on observed signs or symptoms.
- Diagnosis relies on integrating information from medical history, parental concerns, and clinical judgment, adhering to ICD-10 or DSM-IV criteria.
- Clinicians should utilize multiple sources and avoid reliance on single autism-specific diagnostic tools.
Main Results:
- Diagnosis is primarily based on recognizing and interpreting behavioral symptoms.
- Screening tools like the Checklist for Autism in Toddlers (CHAT) and its modified version (M-CHAT) can aid in identifying young children at increased risk.
- These checklists are supportive tools and should not be used to exclude an ASD diagnosis.
Conclusions:
- Accurate ASD diagnosis requires a multifaceted approach integrating clinical observation and standardized criteria.
- Early identification and intervention are crucial for managing ASD.
- While screening tools can indicate risk, they are not definitive diagnostic instruments.
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