Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Screening Test
An autism spectrum disorder (ASD) screening checks for early signs of ASD in young children, usually before age 2. It does not diagnose ASD but helps identify children who may need further testing.
What this test measures
ASD screening looks for early signs of autism spectrum disorder, a developmental disability that affects how a person interacts, communicates, learns, and behaves. Symptoms typically appear in the first two years of life.
What your results mean
Reference ranges vary by laboratory and by your age and sex. MedlinePlus does not publish a single normal range for this test — always read your result against the range printed on your own lab report and discuss it with your provider.
Higher-than-normal results
If screening shows signs of ASD, it may mean that more testing is needed to confirm whether the signs are caused by ASD.
Lower-than-normal results
If screening results do not find signs of ASD, but you have concerns, discuss them with your provider.
Frequently asked questions
What is ASD screening used for?
ASD screening is used to check for early signs of autism spectrum disorder in children age 2 and under, and sometimes in older children and adults who have never been diagnosed.
Can ASD screening diagnose autism?
No, screening cannot diagnose ASD. It only helps find out which children need more testing.
What do the screening results mean?
Results are often given as a score described as low, medium, or high risk for ASD. A high-risk result means more testing is needed.
Who can diagnose ASD after a positive screening?
Specialists such as developmental pediatricians, child neurologists, child psychologists, or psychiatrists can diagnose ASD using a combination of methods.
Is there a single test for ASD?
No, there is no one test for ASD. A specialist uses questionnaires, observations, and tests of thinking, learning, and language, along with exams for other conditions.
Related lab tests
Sources
- MedlinePlus: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Screening — NIH MedlinePlus
Last updated . Information is aggregated from official public sources and is not a substitute for professional medical care.