Can Children Lose An Autism Diagnosis?
It's one of the most hopeful, and most complicated, questions in autism: can a child lose their diagnosis? The research says yes, in some cases. A subset of children who receive early, intensive intervention make gains significant enough that they no longer meet diagnostic criteria for autism as they get older. This is more common with early diagnosis and intensive early intervention, and it does not mean the child was misdiagnosed originally, it reflects genuine developmental change driven by appropriate treatment. However, this outcome is the exception rather than the rule, and it should never be positioned as the standard goal of treatment. Autism Centers of Pittsburgh focuses on maximizing each child's individual potential. Visit our Autism FAQ or contact us for more information.