When you visit the Dani Center, the first thing we ensure is the accuracy of the diagnosis and comprehensive assessment of the child’s condition, through a multidisciplinary medical team that includes pediatricians, psychiatrists, psychologists, occupational therapists, and speech and language therapists. This integrative approach is essential for identifying autism spectrum disorder and accurately determining its dimensions, ensuring the appropriate intervention at the right time.
What is Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)?
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that typically appears during the first three years of a child’s life and affects communication, social interaction, and behavior. According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th edition (DSM-5), the diagnosis of autism depends on the presence of persistent difficulties in:
- Communication and social interaction (such as difficulties in conversational exchange, use of gestures, and understanding social relationships).
- Restricted and repetitive patterns of behavior, interests, or activities (such as repetitive movements, rigid adherence to routines, and intense interests in specific topics).
The manual also emphasizes the need to observe symptoms in the early stages of development, even though they may not fully appear until the social demands surpass the child’s abilities.
The Importance of Early Diagnosis and the Role of the Medical Team
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), early diagnosis and early therapeutic intervention are critical factors that contribute to improving developmental outcomes and social adaptation in children with autism. Research indicates that starting therapeutic interventions during the early years can significantly improve language, behavioral, and social skills.
Since autism symptoms may overlap with symptoms of other disorders, such as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), learning disabilities, or anxiety disorders, relying on a multidisciplinary medical team is the most accurate and efficient approach. Each team member contributes a part of the assessment to form a comprehensive picture of the child.
Assessment and Detection Methods
At Dani Center, globally recognized assessment tools are used, including:
ADOS-2 (Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule): A structured observation tool that measures autism behaviors.
ADI-R (Autism Diagnostic Interview – Revised): A detailed interview with the parents about the child’s behavior since early childhood.
Language and behavior development scales, such as VB-MAPP and PEP-3.
A complete medical, psychological, and developmental history of the child is also taken, with behavioral observations and testing conducted in a suitable environment.
Scientific References:
- American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed.).
- World Health Organization. (2022). Autism spectrum disorders. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/autism-spectrum-disorders
- Lord, C., Risi, S., Lambrecht, L., et al. (2000). The Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS). Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders.
- Rutter, M., Le Couteur, A., & Lord, C. (2003). Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised (ADI-R).
If you are looking for an accurate and comprehensive diagnosis for your child, visiting the Dani Center opens the door to a deeper understanding and the start of a treatment plan based on science, specialization, and follow-up.