Had a verbal dx

[claw3]

of autism on 3rd of this month, assessment team will be planning a MD meeting and giving official dx very soon. They just need to decide where abouts on the spectrum ds is.

There has been lots of talk of Aspergers or HFA. I have heard that these 'labels' are as good as useless when it come to getting help.

Anyone have any experience, pros and cons etc?

You see, according to the ADOS classifications, a score below 7 is non-ASD, then 7-14(I think that's the number, can't remember) is autism spectrum, written as ASD, and then the highest band is autism. So HFA could technically 'trump' ASD according to the ADOS scoring. Why is it so confusing ?

Hope things are not too tough Claw. My DD got a diagnosis in December (at 3.6 yrs) of ASD. Paed said they could not give a more accurate label as she was too young to have her IQ tested. I am glad we got the ASD diagnosis as it seems to fall under a "catch all" umbrella (not sure that is the most sensitive term to use) so as far as we have experienced the label ASD has not been negative in getting DD the help she needs.

Thanks Eveiebaby, a mixture of feelings, but no surprises i suppose.

I would welcome a general ASD dx, as i feel this is more appropriate. High functioning give the impression that this is in all areas and this is really not the case.

Having an high IQ is great, being able to read and write above your years, being able to solve puzzles is great too, but when you find getting dressed/undressed distressing, you cant eat, you are scared of other peoples food, unaware that others are being aggressive to you and try to cuddle them, soiling yourself etc. High functioning just doesnt cut it for me.

Givememoresleep, ds hasnt been ADOS tested or scored. He has been assessed by social and communication specialist and tested on sequencing, verbal etc.

Claw - I totally agree with what you have said regarding high IQ versus struggling to eat/dress/unawareness of others motives etc..
It is certainly worth explaining all this to your Paed and pushing for a diagnosis of ASD if you feel this is in your DS's best interests - good luck

Thanks again Eveie, there is certain no harm in asking, if specialists dont agree, im sure they will say so.

I have just emailed the assessment team asking for this to be considered at the diagnosis meeting that they are due to have.

Thanks everyone, your suggestions have been very helpful.