The importance of early diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder for adequate treatment and rehabilitation in Macedonia

Introduction. Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) has unclear etiology and no known universal treatment, making it difficult to obtain an accurate timely diagnosis. The evidence that highlights the importance of early diagnosis treatment is growing. Objective: research was done evaluate impact its significance, as well effectiveness in obtaining past years decades Macedonia. Methods. We carried out a comparative analysis collected data from 95 subjects divided into three groups: 30 parents, 35 special educators rehabilitators, members professional team participated diagnosing autism, using original tool form questionnaires. study refers conducted Results. Many prenatal, perinatal, postnatal factors can lead ASD. most common symptoms include: lack speech, delayed speech for specific age, not responding their name, eye contact, weak social skills, hyper/hyposensitivity, isolation. more frequently occurs isolated than accompanied by other conditions. mean age used be 5.6, while, recent years, been 4.2. Children wait around 2.1 first Parents visit fewer institutions process ASD There still significant number misdiagnoses. Conclusions. play role occurrence autism. are appear cases. In last decade, autism diagnosed earlier before. approach Macedonia have improved.