ESCAP practice guidance for autism: a summary of evidence-based recommendations for diagnosis and treatment

Across Europe, there is increased awareness of the frequency and importance of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), which is now recognised not only as a childhood disorder but as a heterogeneous, neurodevelopmental condition that persists throughout life. Services for individuals with autism and their families vary widely, but in most European countries, provision is limited. In 2018, European Society of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (ESCAP) identified the need for a Practice Guidance document that would help to improve knowledge and practice, especially for individuals in underserviced areas. The present document, prepared by the ASD Working Party and endorsed by the ESCAP Board on October 3, 2019, summarises current information on autism and focuses on ways of detecting, diagnosing, and treating this condition.

Automated summary

There is a growing awareness in Europe of the frequency and significance of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), which is now seen as a neurodevelopmental condition that persists throughout life. Services for individuals with autism and their families vary across European countries, with limited provision in many areas. In 2018, ESCAP identified the need for a Practice Guidance document to improve knowledge and practice, especially in underserviced regions.