Abstract:

The early identification of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) facilitates early diagnosis and appropriate intervention; that is crucial for ensuring positive developmental outcomes. Evidence from prospective longitudinal studies in high-risk infants (younger siblings of ASD children enrolled before 12 months old) has exhibited the influence of the early identification of ASD by demonstrating developmental trajectories and identifying early manifestations of core symptoms in high-risk ASD infants (who are diagnosed with ASD between 24 and 36 months old). It has been thereby suggested that more subjects, prolonged observation durations, and intensive time points should be adopted in future studies. Additionally, more attention should be paid to ASD-related disorders and early intervention for high-risk infants. In addition, the impact of genetic, environmental, cultural and social factors must also be considered. It is believed that prospective longitudinal studies in high-risk infants in China will assuredly make a distinct difference, both scientifically and clinically.

Key words: autism spectrum disorder, early identification, prospective longitudinal studies, high-risk infants, developmental trajectory