The new test can help determine if a child between 1 and 36 months old does not have autism spectrum disorder.
I work in the Seattle area, and (given the high numbers of people in tech at Microsoft, Amazon, Expedia, and more) see many people on the autism spectrum. I’ll explore LinusBio’s hair test for autism detection.
This article title caught my eye:
Today, I write about a new test that identifies autism-associated biomarkers in infants and young children.
What is Autism?
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental disability that affects how people interact with others, communicate, learn, and behave.
It is a “spectrum disorder” because there is a wide range of variation in the type and severity of symptoms that people with ASD experience.
Some people with ASD may have mild symptoms, while others may have more severe symptoms.
For example, an individual with ASD may not be able to communicate verbally, while others may have excellent language skills.
My point: Autism is not a single condition; ASD looks different for everyone.
Autism Spectrum Disease Onset
The US Centers for Disease Control reports this:
Autism affects an estimated 1 in 36 children and 1 in 45 adults in the United States today.
Autism Speaks notes that clinicians typically diagnose ASD around age 5 in the US.
Signs often appear by age 2 or 3.
Current diagnostic guidelines break down the ASD diagnosis into three levels based on the support a person might need: levels 1, 2, and 3.
Autism and Social Interactions
Others may struggle with social interaction, while some may be very social.
There is no one cause of autism, and a combination of factors likely contributes to the development of ASD.
These factors may include genetic, environmental, and neurological factors.
There is no cure for autism, but there are many management tools that can help people with ASD improve their communication, social, and behavioral skills.
Early intervention is important, as it can help people with ASD reach their full potential.
Other Conditions Occurring With ASD
Many individuals with autism have other health issues that can affect their quality of life, including:
- attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
- anxiety and depression
- gastrointestinal (GI) disorders
- seizures and sleep disorders
Let’s get to the new and exciting news.
Did You Know?
Albert Einstein was likely on the autism spectrum.
Some of his features consistent with the diagnosis included:
- obsessive interests
- difficulty in social relationships
- problems communicating
Some described Einstein as a “loner,” and he repeated sentences and phrases until he was seven.
Researchers claim that “there does not seem much doubt” that Einstein was on the spectrum.
Test to Rule Out Autism
A new test aims to assist doctors in the early identification of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in young children.
The test is not a standalone diagnostic test and cannot diagnose autism spectrum disease.
The new test can be used with other evaluations to help healthcare providers determine whether a child is less likely to have ASD.
The test may be especially helpful when there is a higher suspicion (for example, because of observed behaviors or family history).
How LinusBio’s hair test for autism detection works
The Clearstrand-ASD test is the only biochemical test (using a single hair strand) for children under age 3.
The test analyzes the hair to create a metabolic history that reflects the substances and toxins the child has been exposed to or processed over time.
There are patterns of metal exposure and metabolism that some research has linked to an autism spectrum disorder.
Like tree rings, the test can reveal environmental conditions at various growth stages.
LinusBio’s Hair Test for Autism Detection – Not FDA-Approved
Although the hair test has not yet been approved by the Food and Drug Administration, it is available in many states.
While there is no insurance coverage, a healthcare provider (or a patient’s guardian if they have a telehealth physician visit) can order the test from the company.
Summary – LinusBio’s Hair Test for Autism Detection
We now have a test that identifies biomarkers linked to autism. The test is available in most states in the USA.
This new approach helps clinicians rule out autism in children thought to have a higher likelihood of having it.
Early diagnosis should allow for early intervention and better outcomes for children.
While the metabolic analysis using a single hair strand is exciting, we need more research on the approach.
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