[Clinical features in autism]

Abstract

Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder diagnosed on the basis of three behaviorally altered domains: social deficits, impaired language and communication, and stereotyped and repetitive behaviors. The early recognition of the disorder, as early as 2 years, is an important challenge, because early treatments are more efficient in helping children to develop their adaptation skills, allowing their better integration in the society, with less suffering and a lower level of handicap. Therefore, we describe the symptoms that may lead first degree practitioners to suspect autistic disorders as early as possible, and how they can help the children and their parents to be directed to the appropriate services for diagnostic and treatment.