Collingswood, NJ
A 36-year-old female asked:
If a child is showing signs of autism at an early age, 17 months, does that mean they are more likely to be on the more severe end of the spectrum?
2 doctor answers • 3 doctors weighed in
Dr. Johanna Frickeanswered
Pediatrics - Developmental and Behavioral 52 years experience
Not necessarily: Evaluation of toddlers with signs of autism includes tests of overall development, like a differential abilities scale & an autism diagnostic observation schedule. Level of cognition, degree of asd, & early response to intensive behavioral intervention, like the early start denver model or aba are indicators of outcome. See http://www.Nj.Gov/health/fhs/eis/autism.Shtml to get started asap.
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5.2k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Dr. Johanna Fricke commented
Pediatrics - Developmental and Behavioral 52 years experience
Provided original answer
DSM-V diagnosis Social Communication Disorder for toddlers who have not yet developed stereotypies is accepted by most insurance companies.
Apr 9, 2013
Dr. James Fergusonanswered
Pediatrics 48 years experience
Not necessarily: I find 17 months towards the later end of showing some suggestive findings. Autism is not all one entity although we tend to lump them together under one name. Most will develop many skill sets that might seem unlikely when first diagnosed. Cautious optimism should be maintained as you work with those that will provide needed therapy and direction down this unpredictable road.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
5.2k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Last updated Apr 9, 2013
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