Neuroimaging could be the key to early autism diagnoses

Sagittal MRI slice at the midline. [Image from Wikipedia]

Functional connectivity magnetic resonance imaging (fcMRI) may be able to predict the chances of developing autism by the age of 2 in high-risk 6-month old infants, according to a new study in the Science Translational Medicine journal.

Autism is characterized by challenges in social skills, repetitive behaviors, speech and nonverbal communication. People with autism also tend to have unique strengths and differences. It is estimated that approximately 1 in 68 children have autism in the U.S. Every 1 in 42 boys is diagnosed with autism while 1 in 189 girls is diagnosed. Generally, autism begins to show around the ages of 2 and 3 years old and can be diagnosed as early as 18 months, according to Autism Speaks. There is no other way to diagnose the disease without the child showing symptoms.

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