An autism test is basically formulated to easily diagnose persons with autism. An Autism test is significant because it helps to arrive at the diagnosis in time to begin effective management of the disorder. Early diagnosis means that treatment can be started sooner and can help the diagnosed person cope with the disorder. The following is a list of the most popular tests used to diagnose autism. They are broken into two groups. One group is for initial diagnosis using observations. The second group confirms diagnosis with physical tests.

I) Basic Autism Test

• Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised (ADI-R)

Interview conducted by a psychiatrist with the parents of individuals referred for possible autism. It covers the individual’s history social interaction, communication, language, and behavioral patterns as assessed by the parents. The interview can assess individuals who possess mental age of 2 years and above. This autism test has 93 components and can be used to assess 3 different aspects of Autism:

1. Social Behavior
2. Language and Communication
3. Repetitive and constrained conduct

• Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS)

This Autism test consists of performing a series of tasks by the individual with possible autism that involves the social interaction of the individual being assessed. The behavior of the individual is observed, noted and then scored for analysis.

• Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS)

CARS is a differential Autism test that helps in establishing a differential diagnosis between autism and other mental disorders or developmental delays such as mental retardation and Down’s syndrome. It is an assessment of children based on their social interaction, communication, behavior, and responses.

II) Diagnostic Autism Tests

• Brain Scan

This Autism test involves the employment of a 15 minute brain MRI scan and reconstruction of the images into 3D and interpreted by a computer. This autism test was able to detect autism with approximately 90 % accuracy. This is an autism test that uses latest technology and provides hopes to help people with autism with an earlier diagnosis at a comparatively cheaper cost.

• Urine Autism Test

British scientists are trying to develop a simple autism test that can pinpoint the diagnosis with just a few drops of urine. This autism test is based on the idea that the bacteria within the intestines of an autistic person are quite different when compared to that of a normal person. Research by the Imperial College London and the University of South Australia found that there are lots of differences in the chemical profiles in the urine of individuals with autism too, when compared with those of normal people. However, the urine test has not yet been researched thoroughly and there is lot more to be studied in this regard, and therefore cannot be considered as a means of an accurate autism test; at least at present.

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