Avaliação diagnóstica no Transtorno do Espectro Autista: uma revisão de literatura

Abstract

This study investigated the evolution and updating of diagnostic criteria for autism, describing the complementary exams and psychometric tests currently used to support diagnosis and characterizing their clinical relevance. This research was characterized as a bibliographic investigation with an exploratory objective, qualitative approach, and dialectical method. Data collection was conducted through a literature review, obtaining information from scientific articles and case reports in databases, including Google Scholar and the Capes Journals Portal, using keywords such as "autism spectrum disorder," "ASD," and "psychometric scales" and "complementary exams." It was found that although the diagnosis of autism is eminently clinical, psychometric scales aid in this process, increasing the sensitivity and specificity of investigations where they are employed. In turn, complementary exams are useful for ruling out pathologies that could confound the diagnosis of autism or identifying clinical comorbidities. In conclusion, there has been significant evolution in the diagnostic criteria for autism in recent decades, as well as the importance of psychometric scales and complementary tests to support its diagnosis. However, further development is still needed in studies that will define a more accurate and early diagnostic standard, enabling interventions that harness the potential present in early childhood, due to the greater neuroplasticity individuals exhibit at this stage of life.