Utilizing two-tiered screening for early detection of autism spectrum disorder

Abstract

Despite advances in autism screening practices, challenges persist, including barriers to implementing universal screening in primary care and difficulty accessing services. The high false positive rate of Level 1 screening methods presents especially daunting difficulties because it increases the need for comprehensive autism evaluations. This study explored whether two-tiered screening—combining Level 1 (Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers, Revised with Follow-Up) and Level 2 (Screening Tool for Autism in Toddlers and Young Children) measures—improves the early detection of autism. This study examined a sample of 109 toddlers who screened positive on Level 1 screening and completed a Level 2 screening measure prior to a diagnostic evaluation. Results indicated that two-tiered screening reduced the false positive rate using published Screening Tool for Autism in Toddlers and Young Children cutoffs compared to Level 1 screening alone, although at a cost to sensitivity. However, alternative Screening Tool for Autism in Toddlers and Young Children scoring in the two-tiered screening improved both positive predictive value and sensitivity. Exploratory analyses were conducted, including comparison of autism symptoms and clinical profiles across screening subsamples. Recommendations regarding clinical implications of two-tiered screening and future areas of research are presented.