New Test Identifies Autism in Infants from One Month Old

Autism screening typically occurs around 18-24 months, when parents begin to notice developmental signs. However, many signs of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) may not be apparent in the early months, delaying both diagnosis and intervention.

In a significant advancement for families navigating ASD, Dr. Fanny Lam and Bluesky Precision Medicine have introduced a patented assessment called the Comprehensive Autism Screening (CAS). This tool enhances early autism detection and intervention in Hong Kong with 95% accuracy.

This new approach allows ASD screening as early as 1 to 18 months, providing parents with critical information during the "Golden 1000 Days"—a crucial window when early brain development can significantly influence long-term outcomes.

Inspiration Behind the Development of Early Autism Screening

Throughout her 20-year career, Dr. Lam has observed an increase in severe behavioral symptoms, particularly exacerbated by the pandemic lockdowns. She notes:

"Current diagnosis methods rely on tedious and qualitative observation, and there is a global shortage of reputable diagnosticians. The long waiting times mean children often miss their golden intervention period. I wanted to develop a scientific and scalable test to assist doctors in screening ASD in asymptomatic children, so diagnosis and risk evaluation can be timely, accurate, and within the golden window for the best prognosis."

Why Early Intervention for Autism Matters in the "Golden 1000 Days"

The "Golden 1000 Days" is the standard for early intervention in children with ASD due to the brain's high plasticity during this phase. Early identification enables interventions to begin when the brain is most receptive, leading to better long-term outcomes.

Given the assessment’s 95% accuracy, it can screen children even if they are asymptomatic, allowing interventions to start as early as 6 months, when the brain is in its most active growth and plasticity phase.

For parents who already have children diagnosed with ASD, this screening is particularly valuable. Dr. Lam explains:

"Since ASD has a hereditary component, this assessment provides a cost-effective way to determine whether an infant has ASD as well. As the test is done once in a lifetime, it offers reassurance for families with a history of ASD." 

How Comprehensive Autism Screening (CAS) Works

The Comprehensive Autism Screening (CAS) uses a combination of genomic testing, brain wave analysis, and gut microbiome analysis to provide accurate risk evaluations. Dr. Lam further explains:

"Compared to traditional screening, CAS utilizes clinical data from genomic testing, brain waves analyzed with precision listening technology, and gut microbiome analysis. These combined results serve as reliable indicators for evaluating a child's ASD risk, improving both efficiency and accuracy in the screening process."

Autism Screening Process: Step-by-Step Guide

The CAS autism screening process is non-invasive and begins with a buccal swab, followed by EEG readings and fecal sample collection, posing no known risk to infants.

The entire assessment takes about 1 hour, with results available in 1-2 months. Below is a step-by-step guide to the process:

1. Buccal Swab: Saliva samples are collected from the infant’s mouth, similar to a COVID-19 test.
2. EEG Readings: Five electrode stickers are placed on the infant’s scalp. A series of sounds are played, and the brain’s responses are recorded for analysis.
3. Fecal Sample: A fecal sample is collected for gut microbiome analysis.

Afterward, families return for a consultation with a doctor to discuss the results. 

Autism Screening Costs and Access Information

The cost of the Comprehensive Autism Screening (CAS) is approximately HKD$12,000, which includes the EEG, genetic tests, and a doctor's consultation.

Families can access the screening by visiting their website or contacting them via email.