Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 25, 2026
09:13
Testing Sensory and Multisensory Function in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder
Published on: April 22, 2015
Autism spectrum disorders: clinical features and diagnosis
Ahsan Nazeer1, Mohammad Ghaziuddin
1Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Michigan State University, Kalamazoo Center for Medical Studies, 1722 Shaffer Road, Suite # 3, Kalamazoo, MI 49048, USA. nazeer@kcms.msu.edu
Pediatric Clinics of North America
|January 31, 2012
Summary
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is increasingly common, affecting about 1% of children. Primary care clinicians often provide the first evaluations, but distinguishing ASD from other conditions can be challenging.
Area of Science:
- Neurodevelopmental disorders
- Pediatric medicine
- Clinical diagnostics
Background:
- Growing interest in autism spectrum disorders (ASD) over the past decade.
- Prevalence of ASD approaching 1% in pediatric populations.
- Initial evaluations for children with ASD are typically conducted by primary care clinicians.
Purpose of the Study:
- To address the diagnostic challenges in primary care settings for autism spectrum disorders.
- To highlight the difficulties in differentiating classic autism from other spectrum disorders and comorbidities.
Main Methods:
- Review of current diagnostic criteria and clinical presentation of ASD.
- Analysis of challenges faced by primary care physicians in ASD assessment.
- Discussion of differential diagnoses for suspected autism spectrum disorders.
Main Results:
- Classic autism is often recognizable, but differentiation from other spectrum disorders is complex.
- Comorbid conditions can further complicate the diagnostic process in primary care.
- Accurate initial assessment is crucial for timely intervention and management.
Conclusions:
- Primary care settings are critical for early identification of autism spectrum disorders.
- Enhanced diagnostic support and training for primary care clinicians are needed.
- Improved differentiation of ASD from other conditions will facilitate appropriate care pathways.
Related Concept Videos
01:19Autism Spectrum Disorder
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition marked by persistent deficits in social communication and interaction alongside restrictive and repetitive behaviors or interests. ASD is sometimes accompanied by intellectual impairment.
These core symptoms manifest differently among individuals, ranging from mild to severe. The disorder's complexity extends beyond its clinical presentation, encompassing a diverse range of biological, cognitive, and sociocultural influences.
These core symptoms manifest differently among individuals, ranging from mild to severe. The disorder's complexity extends beyond its clinical presentation, encompassing a diverse range of biological, cognitive, and sociocultural influences.
01:26Modeling in Therapy
Modeling, a key technique in therapy, uses observational learning to help clients acquire and practice new skills by watching therapists demonstrate desired behaviors. This approach, rooted in Albert Bandura's concept of vicarious learning, plays a significant role in therapeutic interventions for various psychological conditions, including social anxiety, ADHD, and depression.
Participant Modeling
Participant modeling involves therapists demonstrating calm and effective behaviors in situations...
Participant Modeling
Participant modeling involves therapists demonstrating calm and effective behaviors in situations...
01:30Oppositional Defiant Disorder
A persistent pattern of angry or irritable mood, defiant behavior, or vindictiveness characterizes Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD). Symptoms must occur over at least six months, involve interactions with individuals beyond siblings, and meet specific diagnostic criteria to be clinically significant. The disorder affects emotional regulation, social interactions, and behavior, often manifesting early in life and influencing long-term development and functioning.
Diagnostic Criteria and...
Diagnostic Criteria and...
01:30Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by persistent inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. It affects approximately 5-8% of children globally, with around 60-70% of cases persisting into adulthood. ADHD has significant implications for educational attainment, social interactions, and occupational success.
Diagnostic Criteria and Symptoms
To diagnose ADHD, symptoms must manifest before age 12 and be evident across multiple settings.
Diagnostic Criteria and Symptoms
To diagnose ADHD, symptoms must manifest before age 12 and be evident across multiple settings.
01:28Conduct Disorder
Conduct disorder is a complex mental health diagnosis characterized by a repetitive and persistent pattern of behavior that violates societal norms, the rights of others, or age-appropriate rules. The diagnostic criteria for conduct disorder require the presence of at least three problematic behaviors within the past 12 months, with at least one occurring in the past six months. These behaviors are grouped into four categories: aggression toward people and animals; destruction of property;...
01:30Irritable Bowel Syndrome II: Clinical Features and Diagnostic Evaluation
Irritable Bowel Syndrome II: Clinical Features and Diagnostic Evaluation
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is classified into subtypes based on the predominant bowel habits as determined by the Bristol Stool Form Scale (BSFS). The subtypes are:
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is classified into subtypes based on the predominant bowel habits as determined by the Bristol Stool Form Scale (BSFS). The subtypes are: