ADHD and Autism

Recently, the system professionals use to diagnose challenges like autism and ADHD changed. The DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual, 5th edition) is the newest version of the book used by professionals. In the old version of the DSM (called the DSM-IV-TR), there were four separate disorders thought to be on the "autism spectrum." These disorders included: 1. autistic disorder 2. Asperger's disorder 3. pervasive developmental disorder not otherwise specified 4. childhood disintegrative disorder

Now professionals believe that these disorders are part of one disorder called "autism spectrum disorder." The word spectrum is used because of the large range of autism symptoms shown by children. Some children have severe symptoms and some have fewer challenges.

What are the symptoms of Autistic Disorder?

• Impairments in social communication. For example, the child may not make eye contact, use gestures (like pointing), or be able to hold a conversation.
• Repetitive behaviors, interests, or activities. For example, the child may frequently flap his/her arms, only be interested in talking about a few things (like zoo animals), or insist on following a very specific routine.

How is autism spectrum disorder diagnosed?

• There are no lab tests to diagnose autism spectrum disorders. This means blood work or brain scans should not be part of the evaluation.
• Observations are often used in the evaluation of autism spectrum disorder. For instance, the child may be given specific tasks to do (like playing with bubbles) or may be observed at school.
• Parent and teacher reports are often used in evaluating autism spectrum disorder. These reports may come from interviews or answers to questionnaires.
• Evaluations of autism spectrum disorders may also include testing, such as intelligence testing.

Many parents of children with ADHD worry that their children fall on the autism spectrum. The relationship between these disorders is complex. Sometimes symptoms of ADHD can look like an autism spectrum disorder. For instance, it is common for children with ADHD and children with autism to be very active.

Sometimes an autism spectrum disorder is misdiagnosed as ADHD. It is possible that a diagnosis of both autism spectrum disorder and ADHD are appropriate. Determining if it is an autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, or both is a complex process. Children with a suspected autism spectrum disorder need a full evaluation from a qualified professional. These professionals could include developmental-behavioral pediatricians, child psychologists, or child psychiatrists. Sometimes children need multiple evaluations over time (even up to a year) to ensure an accurate diagnosis. If you are concerned that your child has symptoms of ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, or both, a good place to start is talking to your child's doctor.