Expert: Valerie Herskowitz - 8/31/2011

Question
Hello,

I am a bit concerned about my nephew. He turned 2 this week. I see him at least once every week and I am worried that he may be showing some symptoms of mild autism. I am listing his behavioral characteristics below. Would greatly appreciate your help.

- Approximately 25+ single words (spontaneous) vocabulary
- May repeat new words or 2-word phrases but I have not noticed him doing this spontaneously
- May tend to get stuck on one thing for quite some time. e.g. going up and down stairs, turning on and off the light switch/fan, going in and out of the room.
- Prone to tantrums, has a very loud and piercing scream
- Does not seem to answer/understand simple questions/instructions e.g if I ask him what is your name/show me the tattoo on your hand, does not seem to know how to respond.

On the positive side
-Good eye contact
-Points at objects/follows point
-Smiling, loves to be cuddled
-Shows some pretend play e.g drinking from a toy cup

Do you think there's cause for concern? Should I bring this up with his mom or wait to see if things improve? Your advice is greatly appreciated.

Answer
Hi Mary

Yes-there is a cause for concern. His language is low for his age. Also, the fact that he gets stuck on doing the same things over and over again as well as the tantrums and lack of understanding. These are all issues that point to a possible developmental delay. I am not allowed to diagnose, but I would say it is imperative that someone takes this young boy to a person that can evaluate him. Possibly a developmental pediatrician or neurologist.

Keep in touch and let me know how it goes.