What symptoms predict the diagnosis of autism or PDD-NOS in infants and toddlers with developmental delays using the Baby and Infant Screen for aUtIsm Traits.

PURPOSE

Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) are characterized by life-long and severe symptoms such as stereotypies, social skills deficits and language delays. Previous research has demonstrated that children who receive early intensive behavioural intervention have a better prognosis than those who do not receive services. It is for this reason that assessments designed specifically for early identification of ASD are of paramount important.

METHOD

In Study 1, 957 infants with autism, PDD-NOS and atypical development were evaluated using an assessment screener for ASD traits, the Baby and Infant Screen for aUtIsm Traits (BISCUIT). In Study 2, only those with an autism or PDD-NOS diagnosis were evaluated.

RESULTS

The BISCUIT was found to have an excellent overall classification rate for children in the target population. A sub-set of BISCUIT items was found that distinguished children with ASD from atypically developing children. Items were also found which could accurately predict autism vs PDD-NOS diagnosis.

CONCLUSIONS

These data suggest that the core features of ASD are distinct and can be identified early in life. Furthermore, the presence of specific core behaviours can allow for a more accurate clinical and diagnostic picture for young children with autism or PDD-NOS vs general developmental delays.