Could brain scans be used to screen for autism?

Conclusion This early-phase research suggests there may be brain changes associated with ASD, and MRI scans could potentially be used to aid earlier diagnosis. However, we don't know if these changes are present in all children with ASD. Much larger studies would be required to see if this is the case. The researchers suggest these findings may have implications for the early detection of and intervention for ASD. However, any such test would need to have a high degree of accuracy to avoid over- or under-diagnosis of ASD in infants. Even if this test was well validated, it would probably be just the start of a process of diagnosis. Early signs of ASD in preschool children fall into four main categories: problems with spoken language failing to respond to others problems with social interaction unusual behaviour See your GP or health visitor if your child is showing symptoms of ASD or you're worried about their development. If appropriate, your GP can refer you to a healthcare professional or team who specialise in diagnosing ASD. Links To The Headlines Autism detectable in brain long before symptoms appear. BBC News, February 15 2017 Accurate test for autism? Scientists use MRI scan to diagnose condition in hundreds of babies under 2 years old. Mail Online, February 15 2017 Brain scans could identify babies most at risk of developing autism, study shows. The Guardian, February 15 2017 Links To Science Cody H, Hongbin Hm Brent G, et al. Early brain develop...
Source: NHS News Feed - Category: Consumer Health News Tags: Neurology Pregnancy/child Mental health Source Type: news