Early diagnosis of autism spectrum disorders in children: what pediatricians should know

Abstract

The issue of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in children is a significant concern at present. In the Russian Federation, there has been a rapid increase in the incidence of ASD and the number of children diagnosed with this condition, making childhood autism a major medical and social issue. Pediatricians need to be trained in the diagnostic criteria for early identification of this disorder. The main diagnostic methods involve monitoring the child’s development, with the district pediatrician playing a crucial role. The knowledge and expertise of the doctor significantly influences the timeliness of diagnosis and the prescription of appropriate interventions, which can lead to positive outcomes and prevent further symptom progression. It is essential for pediatricians to carefully listen to families’ concerns about any developmental or behavioral issues in their children. According to our research, 32% of families did not receive timely assistance. The most common complaint made by parents was delayed speech development and impaired communication. To identify autism spectrum disorders, doctors should regularly assess a child’s neuropsychiatric development and monitor them in various situations to assess their behavior and interaction with others. If any deviations are detected, a questionnaire such as the M-CHAT (a modified list of questions for detecting autism in children) should be used and the patient referred to a psychiatrist for further consultation. Our study highlighted the need for pediatricians to better understand the signs and symptoms of autism spectrum disorders.