Authors:
Taylor LJ, Maybery MT, Whitehouse AJO
Authors notes:
International Journal of Speech-Language Pathology 16(1): 19-22.
Keywords:
autism spectrum disorders, biomarkers, early identification
Abstract:
This paper presents a response to the Camarata (2014) lead article regarding the accuracy and effectiveness of early identification and early intervention for young children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD).
While Caramata focused heavily on the challenges of behavioural screening for ASD, we believe that he has overlooked the potential that the identification of ASD biomarkers may have for the early detection of the disorder.
We propose that the discovery of biomarkers, particularly those that may be used in conjunction with behavioural screening, may provide an important next step in reliably detecting and accurately diagnosing ASD in the early years.
This would have important clinical implications in terms of providing early intervention, which may alter the developmental path for the child.