Most individuals with autism appear physically normal. Tests that can be used to definitively diagnose autism have not yet been developed, nor are there tests that can distinguish between subgroups of autistic disorders. Blood tests, X-rays, brain scans, electroencephalograms and other physical examinations do not provide enough information to prove or disprove the existence of an autistic spectrum disorder. There is currently insufficient information about what causes autism.
The diagnosis is based on behavioral patterns that are present from early in life.
The most widely used diagnostic criteria in autism are those accepted by DSM IV (American Psychiatric Association), ICD (International Classification of Diseases) and WHO (World Health Organization) and these criteria are accepted by experts in research on autism.
How and by whom is autism diagnosed?
In our country, the experts who can diagnose autism are pediatric psychiatrists and pediatric neurologists. Autism is diagnosed by specialists observing the child, conducting developmental tests and asking parents questions about the child's development.
Early diagnosis is important for the individual with autism to start his/her education as soon as possible.
DSM-IV-TR Pervasive Developmental Disorders Diagnostic Criteria
Presence of a total of six (or more) items from items (1), (2) and (3), at least two from item (1) and one each from items (2) and (3):
1. Qualitative Impairment in Social Interaction as manifested by the presence of at least two of the following:
- Significant impairment in many non-verbal behaviors such as hand-arm gestures, body position, facial expression, eye-to-eye gaze, etc. that are used for social interaction
- Failure to develop developmentally appropriate relationships with peers
- Not seeking to have fun with other people or to spontaneously share their interests or achievements (e.g. not showing, bringing or indicating objects of interest)
- No social or emotional reciprocity
2. Qualitative impairment in communication, manifested by the presence of at least one of the following:
- Delayed or absent development of spoken language (not accompanied by attempts to substitute it with other means of communication such as hand, arm or facial gestures)
- A marked impairment in initiating or maintaining conversations with others in people with adequate speech
- Using stereotypical or repetitive or specialized language
- Not spontaneously playing games based on various, imaginative or social imitations appropriate to the developmental level
3. Limited, Stereotypical and Repetitive Patterns in Behavior, Interest and Activities, which are Characterized by the Presence of at least One of the Following:
- Being trapped in one or more stereotyped and limited patterns of interest that are unusual in terms of level of interest or focus
- Strict adherence to specific, non-functional, customary daily tasks or ceremonial behavior without any flexibility
- Stereotyped and repetitive motor mannerisms (e.g., finger snapping, hand clapping or twisting, or complex whole-body movements)
- Constantly dealing with the pieces of furniture
B. Delays or unusual functioning before age 3 in at least one of the following areas (1) social interaction, (2) language used in social communication, or (3) symbolic or imaginative play
C. This disorder is not better explained by Rett Disorder or Disintegrative Disorder of Childhood.
