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Diagnosis is a requirement in many instances to obtain medications and services. Professionals diagnose Autism Spectrum Disorder based on criteria listed in the American Psychiatric Association’s (APA) Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition (DSM-5). The diagnosis is then translated into the required International Statistical Classification of Diseases and
Related Health Problems, tenth revision (ICD-10) code. This code is needed for reimbursement and reporting.
There are significant changes in the structure and labels within the DSM-5. It appears that the newly defined Autism Spectrum Disorder is much more narrow and specific. For some individuals a diagnosis of Language Disorder or Social (Pragmatic) Language Disorder may more closely describe the characteristics of an individual.
Please consult these publications for specific criteria and pertinent information.
DSM-5: Autism Spectrum Disorder
DSM-5: Social (Pragmatic) Communication Disorder
DSM-5: Language Disorder
DSM-5: Selective Mutism
DSM-5: Social Anxiety Disorder
DSM-5: General Anxiety Disorder
DSM-5: Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
DSM-5: ADHD
DSM-5: Reactive Attachment Disorder
ICD-10
DSM-5: Language Disorder 315.32
Three areas of delay and impairment in language development and function are usually observed in an individual with this diagnosis. These difficulties may be seen in spoken, written, sign language, or other means of communication. Language competence may occur in varying degrees and often with unique aspects characteristic of the individual.
Acquisition and Use of Language:
- This individual may demonstrate limited vocabulary when attempting to understand or use words.
- This individual may struggle with the rules of grammar and morphology. Attempts at sentence formation may show errors, omissions and lack of complexity in the use of words and word endings.
- This person may have difficulty with discourse. Explanations and descriptions may show lack of vocabulary development and difficulty formulating sentences. Delayed development may be observed in the use of connected sentences required for topic discussion, sequencing of events, and conversation.
Differential Diagnosis:
- Other disorders to consider are Hearing or other Sensory Impairment, Intellectual Disability, and Neurological Disorders.
The American Psychiatric Association’s (APA) Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition (DSM-5):
- Please consult this publication for additional information regarding specific criteria for this diagnosis, severity specifications, differential diagnosis, comorbidity, and other pertinent aspects of the disorder.
ICD-10 code: F80.9 Developmental disorder of speech and language, unspecified
