Interdisciplinary assessment protocol for diagnostic investigation of autism spectrum disorder

Introduction: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by impairments in social communication, interaction, and behavior, with rigid and repetitive patterns. Objective: To present an interdisciplinary screening protocol for ASD in children aged 1;6–11 years, divided into three groups (Group A: 1.5–3 years; Group B: 3;1–5;11 years; Group C: 6–11;11 years). Method: Assessments were conducted from March 20 to August 21, 2024, with Group C. In the first stage (online), the Autism Behavior Checklist (ABC) and the DSM-5-TR Checklist were used. In the second stage, the Wechsler Abbreviated Scale of Intelligence (WASI) or SON-R 2 ½ - 7 [a] - Nonverbal Intelligence Test, Social Responsiveness Scale 2 (SRS-2), Childhood Autism Rating Scale, Second Edition (CARS-2), and Pragmatic Skills Assessment Protocol for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (PAHPEA) were applied. In the third stage, the Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales, Autism Spectrum Quotient - Adults (AQ) 16+ years, TiPiTi Language Examination, and psychiatric evaluation were used. Results: Sixteen caregivers enrolled their children; eight met the DSM-5-TR and ABC criteria for the first stage. In the second stage, four participants remained (four boys, M = 9 years). Among them, one scored clinically for ASD on the ABC; on the SRS-2, one scored in the moderate ASD range, and two scored in the mild range; on the CARS-2, one showed severe ASD symptoms; on the Vineland, three exhibited adaptive behavior difficulties; on the AQ, caregivers showed no alterations; in intelligence tests, two scored in the borderline range, one in the low-average range, and one did not complete the test; on the PAHPEA, all four presented pragmatic skill impairments; in the TiPiTi subtests, three had comprehension and expression difficulties, and one did not complete the test. Three children were diagnosed with ASD; one was diagnosed with ADHD. Conclusion: The implementation of protocols capable of identifying symptoms compatible with ASD, as well as potential comorbidities, is necessary. The clinical, research, and social aspects of this free service help reduce the burden on public health services. Keywords: ASD; Interdisciplinary Assessment. Reference: American Psychiatric Association-APA. (2023). Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders: DSM-5-TR (Artmed, Org.).