Recognizing Autism

By Amy Crelly

Michael G. Chez, M.D. is Director of Pediatric Neurology at Sutter Neuroscience Institute in Sacramento and the author of Autism and Its Medical Management: A Guide for Parents and Professionals (Jessica Kingsley Publishers, April, 2008). Dr. Chez urges parents to have infants screened once at 12 months and again at 15-18 months. “Autism isn’t just a behavioral label,” he explains. “This is a neurobiological condition that needs medical attention as well as behavioral therapies.”

Getting an accurate medical diagnosis for a toddler, as early as possible, ensures that the child receives the right treatment for him. A variety of other medical conditions (from hearing disorders to gastrointestinal ailments to neurological disorders) can mimic autism symptoms or add to their severity. Having children professionally screened means connecting them with the specific kinds of help they need.

Recognizing a disorder early also allows children access to California’s Early Start Program. Children ages 0-3 years old are eligible to receive a wide array of therapeutic services, free of charge, through the program’s regional centers, but after children reach age 3, most parents must rely on what’s available through the preschools in their area. School district programs vary widely and may or may not offer the same intensive therapy. “If we can diagnose a child at 18 months or earlier, we can get them into the regional center before age 2, giving them more time in the 0-3 program…” urges Dr. Chez.

Recognize the Symptoms
Concerned parents can answer these questions to help them determine if a doctor’s visit or neurological evaluation might be in order:

• Does your child respond when you call his (or her) name? 
• Does your child point or gesture?
• Does your toddler show you things in order to try and get your attention?
• Does your child avoid eye contact?
• Is your child 12 months old (or older) and not speaking?
• Does your child walk on his toes, flap his hands or spin?

After 9 months of age, a child should turn to look when a parent calls his name; those who don’t should see a doctor. If your child is over 12 months and has no eye contact or language, or if your child has lost previously acquired language or developmental skills, make an appointment with your physician or a child neurology specialist for evaluation.