New methods of screening of autism spectrum disorder in children of early age. The modified verification sheet with subsequent algorithm for autism spectrum disorder in young children (m-chat-r/f)

Abstract

Introduction: The early screening of autism spectrum disorder and the timely initiation of activities to stimulate development may significantly change the trajectory of child development. Over the years, multiple forms of autistic spectrum disorder screening have been used (chat; M-chat; M-chatr/ f). In Moldova, screening for autism spectrum disorders by chat is a required process, and it is implemented by the standards of childcare supervision by the family doctor at age 18-24 months (since 2012). Currently, several methods of early screening of autism spectrum disorder which would enhance the effectiveness of early detection of ASD are being discussed. One of these tests is M-chat-r/f. The study objective was to evaluate the efficiency of M-chat test in comparison with M-chat-r/f test. Materials and methods: To achieve this goal, the test M-chat-r/f has been translated from English into Romanian language. The test was performed on a group of 15 children with suspected autism spectrum disorders. These children were selected based on complaints as well as observations of clinical signs received from their parents. The control group consisted of 15 children with suspected ASD, which have been tested with M-chat. Discussion results: Five children from each group, have met the benchmark for ADOS (Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule). ADOS-test confirmed the presence of autism spectrum disorder in all children from the first batch (5 children), while in the control group only 4 children have met the diagnostic criteria for ASD. In addition, it was found that the test application time of M-chat-r/f test (7- 15 min), is approximately two times higher in comparison to the application of an M-chat test (5-7min). At the same time the M-chat-r/f test also enables a more effective communication with parents, which ensures a more detailed description of the child's behavior. Conclusion: Currently in Moldova, given the low level of implementation of the ADOS test, the M-chat-r/f could become a valuable test in the diagnosis of autistic spectrum disorders. The researchwill be extended to larger groups of children in order to show the utility of this test in the national implementation.