A new genetic test could predict the likelihood of developing Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and help with early management in those who are diagnosed.
Early intervention could improve overall function by reducing behavioural and cognitive difficulties such as abnormal social interaction, impaired communication and repetitive actions.
The test was able to predict ASD with more than 70% accuracy in people from a European background.
Researchers found 237 genetic markers in 146 genes that either contributed to or protected an individual from developing ASD. Risk markers increased the score on the genetic test, which increased the risk of developing ASD.
Validation tests are ongoing, and further tests for other ethnic groups are being developed.
Read more at The University of Melbourne