How to Get an Accurate Autism Diagnosis for Your Child

Have you or another adult in your child’s life noticed behavioral differences that set them apart from others their age? If you’re worried that your child might have autism spectrum disorder, how can you know for sure, and what’s next? 

Perhaps you’ve taken your child to your primary care physician to be screened for autism. Your provider may have recommended your child receive further evaluation. Quick screening tools administered by primary care providers can be helpful, but they can also misdiagnose children as autistic when the issue may be ADHD, anxiety, or something else. 

Dr. Charles Niesen and our team at AMS Neurology in Pasadena, California, administer comprehensive assessments to determine whether your child has a form of autism. 

Autism spectrum disorder currently falls into three categories: Autistic Disorder, Asperger’s Syndrome, and Pervasive Developmental Disorder-Not Otherwise Specified. 

Dr. Niesen also identifies whether your child requires support (Level 1), substantial support (Level 2), or very substantial support (Level 3) to live to their full potential. His comprehensive report provides information your child’s school needs to provide the specific assistance your child requires. 

Following is a general outline of the neurological and physical exams involved in a professional assessment to determine if your child has autism spectrum disorder, the category of the disorder, and the level of support your child needs. 

Neurological, physical, and mental assessments

Dr. Niesen examines your child’s cranial nerves and arranges an electroencephalogram (EEG) to determine the status of your child’s brain activity. He may recommend that your child have an MRI if they have seizures and/or to rule out other medical conditions. Dr. Niesen also administers cognitive tests to determine your child’s mental ability. 

Your child also undergoes hearing and vision tests to determine if sensory deficits are impairing their development. In addition, a thorough physical exam tests your child’s motor function, reflexes, balance, and coordination. 

If not already done, we do an in-depth blood and urine test to rule out other medical issues. Dr. Niesen also administers cognitive tests to determine your child’s mental ability. He reviews their medical history, developmental milestones, and the concerns of adult caregivers. 

Interviews with parents, teachers, and caregivers

Parents, caregivers, and teachers complete part of this exam by filling out questionnaires about your child’s social interactions, the way they communicate, and their behaviors. Dr. Niesen also conducts a structured interview with you about your child. 

Direct observation and diagnostic assessments

Dr. Niesen involves your child in structured activities and physical and mental tasks. He administers tests that assess their communication and behaviors, including how your child interacts with others. 

Language assessments 

If your child’s speech and language aren’t developing on a typical path, Dr. Niesen arranges for a speech therapist to evaluate your child’s ability to communicate. 

Genetic testing 

Dr. Niesen may order genetic testing to rule out other medical conditions and identify factors that may contribute to autism. 

Diagnosing autism spectrum disorder

Dr. Niesen reviews all the information gathered and weighs it against diagnostic criteria for autism spectrum disorder based on the American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) to determine whether your child’s communication and behaviors match that criteria. 

If he determines your child meets the criteria for an autism spectrum disorder, Dr. Niesen lets you know the type and level of autism and provides their school with a complete report that contains recommended levels and types of support for your child’s needs. 

If you’re concerned about your child’s development, call AMS Neurology or book an appointment online today.