[Autism spectrum disorders in adults]

Abstract

Early infantile autism' as defined by Kanner has grown into a spectrum of autistic disorders. The recognition of Asperger's disorder and of pervasive developmental disorder not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS), has led to increased demand for appropriate diagnostic assessment of autism in adults. The expression ofimpairments in social interaction, communication, imagination and mental flexibility changes during development into adulthood. The diagnostic procedure in adult psychiatry should comprise a collateral developmental interview. Autism spectrum disorders in adults may mimic, or be overshadowed by, other psychiatric disorders. For effective diagnosis, the application of structured interviews, such as the 'Autism diagnostic observation schedule' (ADOS), 'Autism diagnostic interview-revised' (ADI-R) or 'Diagnostic interview for social and communication disorders' (DISCO) is recommended.