MRI Test Shows Diagnostic Promise for Autism - in Pediatrics, Autism from MedPage Today

Medical News: MRI Test Shows Diagnostic Promise for Autism - in Pediatrics, Autism from MedPage Today\

Does this new research mean we can get a quick, easy and absolute diagnosis of Autism from a simple MRI scan? No, regretfully not, although that's how the mainstream press presents it. MRI scans of the brain in this research protocol focused on two specific regions in the temporal lobe was able to diagnose high-functioning autism with 94% sensitivity in a preliminary evaluation. There are, however some serious limitations with this study included the small sample size, lack of a comparator group with developmental disorders other than autism, and use of highly selected features for evaluation. These limitations mean that we don't know if this type of scan can or ever will (although ever is a long time) tell us if a child has autism, a language disability or other disorder. So far, and for the near future, the scan can't tell these different disorders apart, and that's why we use more complex tests for autism such as the ADOS (Autism Diagnostic Observation Scale) and the ADI-R (Autism Diagnostic Interview0-Revised). These remain, and most likely will remain, the standard for assessment here in British Columbia.

Autism, like many other social and learning disorders present on a scale, and it is necessary for the treating clinician to understand the unique way the disorder presents itself. Two children with identical brain scans may, I would expect, present very differently in terms of behaviours and immediate intervention needs because the disorder interacts with their temperament, other co-morbid issues (such as sensory sensitivities), environmental factors such as parenting skills/temperament/siblings and developmental experiences. Add on to this factors relating to the larger social environments such as schools. An MRI, blood or urine test may be helpful, and may very well become necessary for diagnosis or government funding in some locations, but a good clinical interview, observation in multiple settings, history taking and appropriate "hands-on" diagnostic assessment are still the foundation for building a good treatment and intervention plan.

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My web page lists a number of resources you can make use of yourself in dealing with Autism Spectrum Disorder and Asperger's, as well as many other learning disabilities. Please visit it at www.socialcognitivetherapy.com, or one of my other sites at: Psychology Today, AAMFT, PSYRIS or my professional site or www.adhdhelp.ca.

Autism assessment and treatment services are offered for individuals, couples, families, children, adolescents and adults in the Burnaby, Vancouver, Coquitlam, Port Moody, New Westminster and Maple Ridge areas of the lower mainland. This includes neuro-developmental assessments, psycho-education assessments, autism assessments as well as behavioural and cognitive behaviour therapy. I also provide diagnostic assessments for autism and Asperger's Disorder in my Burnaby office.

Dr. Jim Roche
Registered Psychologist, British Columbia 01610
778.998-7975
www.relatedminds.com