Update on diagnostic classification in autism.
OBJECTIVE
In the lead up to and following the recent publication of the DSM-5, the diagnostic construct of autism has received intense scrutiny.


RESULTS
This article briefly reviews the history of the diagnosis of autism, the changes that have occurred in the diagnosis over time, and the rationale for change. The most significant changes being introduced with the DSM-5 are highlighted, as well as some of the concerns that will be a focus of attention with respect to the potential impacts going forward.


CONCLUSIONS
The categorical divisions that characterized the pervasive developmental disorders are now collapsed into a single entity, autism spectrum disorder. The final DSM-5 criteria have yet to be formally compared prospectively against prior criteria, but early indications suggest that the boundaries around the pervasive developmental disorders have not been substantially altered.
aSeattle Children's Hospital, Seattle bUniversity of Washington Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Washington, USA.
Bryan H
BH
King
Noa
N
Navot
Raphael
R
Bernier
Sara Jane
SJ
Webb
D001321:Autistic Disorder / Q000145:classification / Q000175:diagnosis*; D002648:Child; D002659:Child Development Disorders, Pervasive / Q000145:classification / Q000175:diagnosis; D039721:Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders; D006801:Humans; D012680:Sensitivity and Specificity