AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER DIAGNOSIS
There is no clear medical test to diagnose the disorder, and neither a blood test nor a brain scan can be a conclusive guide to diagnosing autism spectrum disorder. Although researchers are actively trying intensively to develop such tests and diagnostic scales. Currently, clinicians/clinical specialists in diagnosing autism spectrum disorder rely on observing a childs behavior to determine the presence of the main symptoms of autism: communication difficulties, lack of social interaction and repetitive and restrictive behaviors.
FULL DIAGNOSTIC EVALUATION:
It is a comprehensive review, which includes looking at the childs behavior and development and interviewing his family, and also includes a hearing and vision examination, genetic examination, neurological examination, and other medical
tests.
- Pediatrician
- Neurologist (childrens specialty)
- Psychiatrist
- Psychologist
- Autism Diagnostic Observation Table (ADOS): whereby clinicians/clinicians observe childrens behavior and how they integrate and interact in different social situations for up to an hour.
DISORDERS ASSOCIATED WITH AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER
More than half of people with autism spectrum disorder have four or more co-existing conditions with autism. The types of conditions associated with autism and how they manifest differ from person to person.
Treating autism spectrum disorder is important, as it may help relieve symptoms of autism spectrum disorder and thus improve the quality of life for individuals with autism spectrum disorder. For example, treating sleep problems has behavioral benefits as the number of hours of sleep and quality of sleep can affect the mood of the individual with autism spectrum disorder and the severity of his repetitive behaviors.
