A follow up study of children who demonstrated features of pervasive developmental disorder at age 3-5 years but did not fulfil criteria for autism

This follow-up study attempted to trace the development of symptoms in a cohort of children who, at age 3-5 years, showed behavioural features suggestive of a pervasive developmental disorder (PDD) but did not qualify for a diagnosis of childhood autism. Case notes were reviewed and retrospective data pertaining to an assessment completed in the preschool period were extracted. This information was then compared to data collected as part of a follow-up assessment, conducted on average 4 years after the initial evaluation. The characteristics presented by the sample at each timepoint were examined, to evaluate the continuity of skills and behaviours over time. Inferential statistics were then used to explore the associations between variables, both within and across time. At follow-up, the sample were assessed to have a range of intellectual abilities and widespread language impairments. Communication difficulties, social relationship problems, behavioural disturbance and high levels of autistic symptomatology also featured strongly. Estimates of intellectual and language functioning were found to be relatively stable over time. In addition to early non-verbal and receptive language abilities, preschool social communication skills were found to be related to aspects of follow-up status. The overall pattern of difficulties suggested this group to have a range of significant needs, on the basis of which it was concluded that their autistic features had not dissipated with age