FASD Diagnosis
Obtaining an accurate FASD diagnosis is the first step in understanding the effects of FASD. The earlier a child gets diagnosed, the sooner the family, teachers and health care clinicians can work together to support the child’s health and development and mitigate the secondary disabilities which can occur later in life.
A Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder diagnosis evaluation requires a thorough health history and medical exam and comprehensive neuropsychological testing. Due to the complexity of the diagnosis, it is often done by a multidisciplinary health team with experts in pediatric and adolescent medicine, especially in neurology, growth, development, and behavior. Referrals to other specialists are often recommended including cardiology, ophthalmology, endocrinology, psychiatry, and mental health.