Used by professionals to assess children with autism, the scale ***15 entries each entry by 1-4 every 0.5 into a seven-level scoring, 1 is normal, 4 is the most serious, the cumulative calculation of the total score CARS total score of ≤ 29.5 is normal, the total score of CARS 30-36.5 for mild - moderate autism, CARS total score ≥ 37 for severe autism, the total score of ≥ 37 for severe autism, the total score of CARS ≤ 29.5 for normal, CARS total score of 30-36.5 for mild - moderate autism, CARS total score of ≥ 37 for severe autism. moderate autism, and a total CARS score of ≥37 was considered severe autism.
2. Electroencephalogram (EEG) or topography of the brain
The abnormality rate of EEG examination ranges from 10% to 83%, which varies greatly due to the different interpretation criteria and samples selected for EEG in general. In general, the more leads, the higher the rate of abnormality. Those with abnormal EEGs are generally those with lower IQs, and the more markedly impaired the IQ, the higher the probability of autism, the higher the probability of EEG abnormalities and epilepsy. However, in about 20-40% of children who develop epilepsy before puberty, the EEG may not be abnormal.
3. CT and MRI
MRI findings showed that the total brainstem area and total bridge area of some children with autism were smaller than those of controls of children of the same age, and that the median sagittal area of the cerebellum in the VI and VII lobes of the earthworms was 19% smaller than that of normal controls. This suggests cerebellar hypoplasia and the possibility of association with the development of certain autistic disorders.
4. SPECT single photon emission computed tomography
SPECT can detect cerebral blood flow. SPECT testing in children with autism reveals abnormal cerebral blood flow perfusion with a 75% positive rate. It was mainly manifested in the cerebral cortex, cerebellum and multiple subcortical structures, concentrated in the frontal and temporal lobes of the cortex, with the left frontal lobe being the most common. At the same time, the hippocampal gyrus has reduced localized blood perfusion.
5. Brainstem auditory evoked potentials
The brainstem auditory evoked potentials of children with autism are abnormal. Abnormalities in I--V waves have been reported, and the rate of abnormality is as high as 20%--60%. The presence of auditory deficits and prolonged brainstem conduction time in children with autism suggests that altered brainstem function may contribute to the symptoms of autism. Brainstem dysfunction leads to impairment of transmission pathways to the brain, which may contribute to the abnormal development of cognitive, social, and language skills in children with autism.
6. Other tests
Chromosomal analysis and intelligence tests may be ordered as needed.
These are the general conditions, and the doctor will choose the identification program according to the situation of the child.