A syndrome, in pathological or psychiatric terms, is defined as a group of related symptoms that characterize a condition. For autism, or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), diagnosis is based on observation of symptoms. Two children with an autism diagnosis may exhibit different, but related symptoms, so defining autism as a syndrome makes sense: diagnosis comes from observing the presence of several of a group of symptoms that are specific to the disorder.
ASD covers a range of symptoms, abilities, and behaviors, all of which relate to emotional and social development and to communication skills. Some people without ASDs may have some of the symptoms, but those who do have ASD will exhibit enough symptoms, in a severe enough form, that their daily life is very challenging.
No one tool is used to diagnose an ASD, and there is no medical test to rule out an ASD. Again, because autism is a syndrome, it is the confluence of several symptoms together that result in a diagnosis.
Some symptoms of ASD are:
Not playing “pretend” or “make believe” games;
Not pointing at objects of interest or looking at objects when pointed out;
Having no interest in others;
Avoiding eye contact with others;
Appearing unaware when spoken to but responding to other sounds;
Having trouble expressing needs using typical motions or words;
Preferring not to be held or cuddled;
Repeating actions over and over;
Having unusual reactions to tastes, smells, and sounds;
Losing skills once mastered (e. g. not using words previously used).
Parents and caregivers are often the first to notice one or more of the symptoms of an ASD. Following that observation, health care providers can observe the child and use diagnostic tools to assess them.
There are many tools available to assist in diagnosis of autism. Because autism is a syndrome, no one tool should be used for diagnosis. Some diagnostic tools include the Autism Diagnosis Interview–Revised (ADI–R), the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule – Generic (ADOS–G), the Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS), and the Gilliam Autism Rating Scale (GARS).
Making parents aware of normal development and development milestones, making health care providers aware of early diagnosis and treatment, and encouraging parents to discuss milestones with health care providers can help facilitate an awareness of when such milestones are not being reached. The earlier the diagnosis is suspected and confirmed, the earlier treatment and intervention can begin.