Prevailing Diagnostic Scenario and the Importance of Early Detection

Autism spectrum disorder is one of the most relevant medical conditions of our era due to its increasing prevalence and the need for significant medical, educational, and social support. Early diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder is crucial because it allows for appropriate intervention and leads to better long-term outcomes, improved quality of life for patients and their families, and access to educational and community resources. Unfortunately, there are no established screening programs for fetal, prenatal, or neonatal autism, making early detection challenging. Some scales are used as screening tools to facilitate identification, referral to specialists, and diagnosis. However, there are significant challenges in accessing and navigating appropriate services and support, causing high levels of stress and anxiety among families and delaying interventions for the patient. This chapter will discuss the benefits of early detection, the current diagnostic scenario, and the direction research is taking for the incorporation of new approaches.