Diagnosis and Classification

Summary and Conclusion

The DSM-IV diagnostic criteria for autism and AS overlap to a significant degree. The main differentiating features involve early developmental patterns, but for a variety of reasons this may not provide an adequate foundation for differential diagnosis. It is well-accepted that the characteristics of autism vary significantly in different individuals, ranging from extreme aloofness, lack of language, and limited nonverbal and adaptive skills (Wing, 2000) to awkward sociability, above-average intelligence and verbal fluency, and adequate vocational and community living skills. The terms HFA and AS are generally used to describe the upper end of this continuum, but professionals disagree whether these terms are interchangeable.