Diagnosis of Autism
Diagnosing Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) can be challenging, as there is no definitive medical test, such as a blood test, to confirm the diagnosis. Instead, healthcare professionals assess the child's behavior and development to make an informed diagnosis.
ASD can often be detected as early as 18 months, and by the age of 2, a diagnosis made by an experienced professional is generally considered reliable. However, many children do not receive a final diagnosis until they are older, which can delay access to essential support services.
The diagnosis of ASD typically involves two key steps:
Developmental Screening
Comprehensive Diagnostic Evaluation
Contact us
Developmental screening
Developmental screening is a brief assessment to determine if children are acquiring basic skills appropriately or if they may be experiencing delays. During this screening, the doctor may ask parents questions or engage in play with the child to observe their learning, speech, behavior, and motor skills. Delays in any of these areas may indicate a potential issue.
All children should be screened for developmental delays during regular well-child visits at:
9 months
18 months
24 or 30 months
Additional screening may be necessary for children at high risk of developmental problems due to factors such as preterm birth or low birth weight. Furthermore, specific screening for ASD should occur during well-child visits at:
18 months
24 months
Children at higher risk for ASD—such as those with siblings or family members diagnosed with ASD—may require additional screening if they exhibit behaviors associated with ASD.
It is important for healthcare providers to monitor all children for developmental delays, particularly those identified as high risk. If your child’s doctor does not routinely conduct this type of developmental screening, it is advisable to request it. Should any signs of a potential problem arise, a comprehensive diagnostic evaluation is necessary.
Comprehensive Diagnostic Evaluation
The second step in diagnosing ASD is a comprehensive evaluation. This thorough assessment may involve a detailed review of the child's behavior and development, alongside interviews with parents. It may also include hearing and vision screenings, genetic testing, neurological assessments, and other medical evaluations. In certain cases, the primary care physician may refer the child and family to a specialist for further assessment and diagnosis. Specialists qualified to conduct these evaluations include:
Developmental Pediatricians
Child Neurologists
Child Psychologists or Psychiatrists
Early diagnosis and intervention can significantly improve outcomes for children with ASD, providing them with the support they need to thrive.