How are autism and Asperger Syndrome diagnosed, and who can make a diagnosis?
Currently, no single medical test exists that will definitively diagnose autism spectrum conditions. Neither AS nor autism can be diagnosed by looking at a blood sample or performing a brain scan. Although these are physical, neurological conditions, researchers are still looking for genetic or other physical causes that may lead to a definitive test. Short of this, the diagnosis is made on the basis of observable characteristics of the individual. Because of its earlier onset, autism is usually diagnosed in childhood. Most children start showing symptoms of autism at about 18-24 months, when a parent may raise concerns with a physician. The most common age for diagnosis is between three and four years, though some children may not be diagnosed until the age of 12. People with Asperger Syndrome, and/or their parents, may be aware for some time that their behavior, or that of their children, is different; but it may be years before they identify the pattern of behavior as consistent wit
Related Questions
- I think my child might be showing some symptoms of Asperger’s Syndrome. How old does my child have to be before he or she can be diagnosed?
- Can a diagnosis of Asperger syndrome be made in very young children with suspected autism spectrum disorder?
- How are autism and Asperger Syndrome diagnosed, and who can make a diagnosis?
