Diagnosis of autism

摘要

Autism is a behaviourally defined disorder, which is the endpoint of several organic aetiologies The number of children diagnosed as having autistic spectrum disorders is increasing for various reasons A diagnosis of autism can be reliably made at between 2 and 3 years of age Autism does not meet criteria for screening, but surveillance throughout the preschool years is recommended Diagnosis is by history taking, focusing on the developmental story and systematically inquiring for core behaviours, and by observation in several settings.