Dr Kola Tytler MBBS CertHE MBA MRCGPClinical Lead • iatroX
When assessing a child for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in a primary care setting, key signs and symptoms to consider include:
- Social communication difficulties: persistent challenges in reciprocal social interaction, such as limited interaction with others, lack of responsiveness, difficulties understanding social cues, and limited social demonstration of empathy NICE CG128,NICE CKS.
- Restricted and repetitive behaviours: including stereotypic behaviours like rocking or hand flapping, rigid routines, resistance to change, and marked repetitive activities especially under stress NICE CG128,NICE CKS.
- Developmental history concerns: delays or regression in language or social milestones, unusual play patterns, or atypical use and understanding of language NICE CG128,NICE CKS.
- Behavioural features: difficulties with socialisation skills, possible self-injurious behaviour, or behaviour that challenges daily functioning NICE CG128,NICE CKS.
- Additional observations: consider sensory sensitivities, motor coordination problems, and adaptive behaviour difficulties NICE CG128.
- Contextual factors: signs and symptoms should be considered in the context of the child’s overall development, family concerns, and cultural background; do not exclude ASD based on good eye contact or normal early language milestones alone NICE CG128.
It is important to gather information from multiple sources including parents, carers, and educational settings, and to observe the child’s social and communication skills directly NICE CG128. Referral to a specialist autism team is recommended if persistent and significant limitations or impairments caused by these features are present NICE CKS.