New Brain Scan Detects Autism in Adults in 15 Minutes

UK scientists have developed a new type of brain scan that only takes 15 minutes and can diagnose autism in adults with over 90 per cent accuracy: they hope to develop it so it can be used to screen children for autism spectrum disorders.

Photo: New Brain Scan Detects Autism in Adults in 15 Minutes

The participants first underwent traditional diagnostic assessment, which included taking an IQ test, being interviewed by a psychiatrist and having a physical exam and blood test.

The researchers then tested all the participants with the new brain scan and 3D image method and found it was highly effective in identifying the individuals who had been diagnosed with autism.

They concluded that the method provided a rapid diagnostic tool based on biological markers to detect autism, Medical News Today reports.

Autism is a complex brain disorder characterized by difficulties in social interaction and communication, ranging from mild to profound impairment.

The new scanning method -- which picks up on structural changes in the brain's grey matter -- could be ready for general use in a couple of years. The next goal is to test it in children, Reuters informs.