Recommendation ID
CG128/3
Question
Additional assessments:- Do additional assessments (for IQ, language ability and motor ability) improve accuracy in diagnosing autism among preschool children (younger than 5 years) compared with signs and symptoms alone?
Any explanatory notes
(if applicable)
Why this is important:- Current NHS practice varies widely with regard to the proportion of children having an autism diagnostic assessment who also routinely undergo assessments of IQ, language and motor abilities.
As a consequence we do not know whether such assessments aid more accurate diagnosis of autism. This is particularly important if a differential or coexisting diagnostic decision is called for and/or if there may be specific management implications.
Studies may prove valuable to parents in terms of explaining some of the child’s behaviours, leading to more targeted and informed support for the child, parents and the wider family.

Source guidance details

Comes from guidance
Autism spectrum disorder in under 19s: recognition, referral and diagnosis
Number
CG128
Date issued
September 2011

Other details

Is this a recommendation for the use of a technology only in the context of research? No  
Is it a recommendation that suggests collection of data or the establishment of a register?   No