Healthline.com
Hopebridge Chief Clinical Officer Jana Sarno
Hopebridge Chief Clinical Officer Jana Sarno
- Why is Asperger’s no longer a formal diagnosis?
Asperger’s Disorder formerly fell under the umbrella of pervasive developmental disorders (PDD), along with four other diagnostic labels. Three of the PDD classifications, including Asperger’s, autistic disorder and PDD-NOS (not otherwise specified) were commonly associated as being part of the spectrum.
The change occurred in 2013, when the classification was modified within the fifth edition of the American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders – 5 th Edition (DSM-5). The same criteria for Asperger’s, along with several other PDD diagnoses, were consolidated within what is now known as autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
The differences between Asperger’s and autism were not always obvious, which is partially why they are now classified under the same diagnosis. Sensory sensitivities, social challenges, restricted interests and repetitive behaviors can all affect individuals on the spectrum, including those who had been previously diagnosed with Asperger’s.
In past years, many individuals with Asperger’s were misdiagnosed or were not diagnosed until later in life. Their symptoms may have been more difficult to detect until recent years since awareness has broadened. Many children with Asperger’s missed the window for early intervention because they were already in school when social deficits became more apparent, whereas the average age of diagnosis for is younger for those with ASD, at approximately 4 years.
- How can caregivers know when a child should be tested for ASD?
Caregivers should familiarize themselves with the CDC’s guidelines around developmental milestones, as well as the signs of autism. It is helpful to stay on top of autism screening guidelines and opportunities, like the M-CHAT.
If caregivers notice their child experiences symptoms of autism or if they have any concerns around behavior or milestones, I recommend communicating with their pediatrician and schedule a formal diagnostic evaluation for autism. Early identification is the first step toward receiving therapies and services that can help children, so I urge parents not to wait if they notice signs of autism.
Asperger’s Disorder formerly fell under the umbrella of pervasive developmental disorders (PDD), along with four other diagnostic labels. Three of the PDD classifications, including Asperger’s, autistic disorder and PDD-NOS (not otherwise specified) were commonly associated as being part of the spectrum.
The change occurred in 2013, when the classification was modified within the fifth edition of the American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders – 5 th Edition (DSM-5). The same criteria for Asperger’s, along with several other PDD diagnoses, were consolidated within what is now known as autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
The differences between Asperger’s and autism were not always obvious, which is partially why they are now classified under the same diagnosis. Sensory sensitivities, social challenges, restricted interests and repetitive behaviors can all affect individuals on the spectrum, including those who had been previously diagnosed with Asperger’s.
In past years, many individuals with Asperger’s were misdiagnosed or were not diagnosed until later in life. Their symptoms may have been more difficult to detect until recent years since awareness has broadened. Many children with Asperger’s missed the window for early intervention because they were already in school when social deficits became more apparent, whereas the average age of diagnosis for is younger for those with ASD, at approximately 4 years.
- How can caregivers know when a child should be tested for ASD?
Caregivers should familiarize themselves with the CDC’s guidelines around developmental milestones, as well as the signs of autism. It is helpful to stay on top of autism screening guidelines and opportunities, like the M-CHAT.
If caregivers notice their child experiences symptoms of autism or if they have any concerns around behavior or milestones, I recommend communicating with their pediatrician and schedule a formal diagnostic evaluation for autism. Early identification is the first step toward receiving therapies and services that can help children, so I urge parents not to wait if they notice signs of autism.