Screening and diagnosis

The Checklist for Autism in Toddlers (CHAT) is a screening instrument which identifies children aged 18 months who are at risk of having social-communication disorders.

Autism spectrum disorder is a complex, lifelong developmental disability which can often be difficult to diagnose. This guide to diagnosis for health professionals explains the characteristics of the condition and how to recognise its early signs.

The process of diagnosing autism or Asperger syndrome can be difficult and complex. This article guides you through the systems and instruments you may need when carrying out a professional diagnosis.

The purpose of this measure is to screen for the presence of indications of autism spectrum disorders. It can be used in any setting or service for adults, including Learning Disability, Mental Health, Probation and Employment Services or Further and Higher Education.

Bhismadev Chakrabarti, PhD, from the School of Psychology and Clinical Language Sciences, University of Reading and the Autism Research Centre, University of Cambridge, provides an introduction to the topic of genetics and autism.