Updated AAP Guidance on ASD Detection and Management

Primary care clinicians are encouraged to refer early, partner with families to make treatment decisions, and know their community resources.

With the prevalence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) now estimated at 1 in 59 U.S. children, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has updated its 2007 clinical report on ASD screening and management. Important points for clinicians include the following:

Developmental screening is still recommended at 9, 18, and 30 months; ASD can be diagnosed by 18 months, or even younger.
Between screenings, developmental surveillance should happen up to school age because higher-functioning children may not have problems until they begin school.
When concerns exist, refer for therapies (e.g., speech, occupational, Early Intervention [EI]), even before ASD diagnosis is certain.
ASD diagnostic evaluation can be done by a developmental-behavioral pediatric…

Reviewing Author

Jenny Radesky, MD

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory BoardMelissa & Doug Toys (Consultant and Board of Directors)

Grant/Research SupportNational Institute for Child Health and Development; National Institutes of Health

Jenny Radesky, MD

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory BoardMelissa & Doug Toys (Consultant and Board of Directors)

Grant/Research SupportNational Institute for Child Health and Development; National Institutes of Health

Updated AAP Guidance on ASD Detection and Management

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Reviewing Author