Adaptation of Diagnosis from Autism Spectrum Disorder to Social Communication Disorder in Adolescents with ADHD

J Autism Dev Disord. 2020 Feb;50(2):685-687. doi: 10.1007/s10803-019-04265-w.

Abstract

Here, we describe a case in which an original diagnosis of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Asperger's syndrome was later adapted to social communication disorder, to meet the new guidelines. First, separate diagnostic labels of autism disorder, Asperger's disorder, and PDD-NOS have been replaced by one umbrella term "autism spectrum disorder". Second, the new DSM-5 criteria are more stringent than the old criteria. For example, observation of a higher number of symptoms is necessary to meet the criteria, such as restricted interests and repetitive behaviors. Third, the communication and social interaction domains are combined into one, titled "social/communication deficits." Finally, requirement of a delay in language development is no longer necessary to establish a diagnosis of autism.

Keywords: ADHD; Adolescents; Autism spectrum disorder; Social communication.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Letter

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity / diagnosis*
  • Autism Spectrum Disorder / classification
  • Autism Spectrum Disorder / diagnosis*
  • Child
  • Communication*
  • Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders
  • Humans
  • Language Development
  • Male
  • Neuropsychological Tests / standards*