Pediatric Pearls: Lack of Follow-Through on Referrals May Delay ASD Diagnoses in Children

The mother of an 20-month-old son presents to your office. Recently, the child failed a screening for autism spectrum disorder. However, he is yet to have been given a referral to a specialist for further evaluation. At the child's next well visit, the mother asks about next steps, and whether it is best to wait until her son is older to further evaluate him.

How would you advise your patient?

(Answer and discussion on next page)

Brittany Perry, DO, is a pediatrician at Nemours/Alfred I. duPont Hospital for Children in Wilmington, Delaware.