What are the diagnostic methods for autism?

The following tests and evaluations are recommended for children with symptoms of suspected autism spectrum disorder.

1. Physical and neurological examination

2. Psychiatric examination

3. Developmental level and intelligence assessment

The developmental level of children can be assessed by using the Denver Developmental Screening Scale (DDST), Gesell's Developmental Diagnostic Scale (GDDS), and Psychoeducational Evaluation Scale (PEP). The Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test (PPVT), the Chinese Binet Intelligence Test, the Wechsler Preschool Intelligence Scale (WPPSI), the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children (WISC), the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale (WAIS), and the Raven's Progressive Modeling Experiment (RPM) were chosen to assess the patient's level of intelligence.

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The PEP provided a basis for the formulation of the education and training program.

4. Screening and diagnostic evaluation of autism spectrum disorders

Commonly used screening scales include Kirschner's Autism Behavioral Scale (CABS), Autism Behavioral Checklist (ABC), Modified Infant and Toddler Autism Scale (M-CHAT), and Autism Spectrum Disorder Screening Questionnaire (ASSQ), etc. The screening scales used in this study are the Kirschner's Behavioral Assessment of Autism (KBAA) and the Autism Behavioral Checklist for Children (ABC).

Diagnostic scales include the Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS), Autism Diagnostic Interview Scale (ADI), and Autism Diagnostic Observation Scale (ADOS), the latter two of which require systematic training and qualification before they can be used.

5. Laboratory tests, such as screening for inherited metabolic diseases and thyroid function tests.

6. Electroencephalogram and brain imaging (cranial MRI and CT)

7. Genetic testing including karyotype and mutation testing.