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Article: Is my child autistic? Helping parents understand a difficult diagnosis: recognition of the language, social, and behavioral deficits that indicate autism in a child is key to making this diagnosis. Early intervention can lead to a good outcome.(CME)
- Article from:
- JAAPA-Journal of the American Academy of Physicians Assistants
- Article date:
- January 1, 2009
- Author:
CopyrightCOPYRIGHT 2009 Haymarket Media, Inc. This material is published under license from the publisher through the Gale Group, Farmington Hills, Michigan. All inquiries regarding rights should be directed to the Gale Group. (Hide copyright information)
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Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) include autistic disorder, Asperger's syndrome, Rett syndrome, childhood disintegrative disorder, and pervasive developmental disorder not otherwise specified. (1) Each disorder is characterized by varying degrees of impaired social, behavioral, and communication skills. (1) This article focuses on the most severe ASD, autistic disorder. Increased media coverage is making parents more aware of its early signs. As a result, they are more likely to raise concerns about their child. PAs must be aware of the signs and symptoms of autism in order to address parents' concerns and make an accurate diagnosis.
Appropriate referrals and ...