Revolutionary video game identifies autism with a precision of 80%

Autism spectrum disorder (TSA) affects one in 36 children in the United States and one in 100 worldwide. Early diagnosis improves access to interventions that improve quality of life. However, the distinction of ASD from other conditions such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) remains a challenge.

ADHD co-occupying ASD in 50% to 70% of cases, making the diagnostic complex. Traditional methods are based on costly assessments by highly qualified professionals, often resulting in erroneous delays or diagnoses.

Motor imitation plays a crucial role in social learning, with children’s learning behaviors by observing and imitating others. Research shows that children with TSA fight with imitation in relation to neurotypical peers. Differences in motor skills have been documented in tasks such as balls and coordination rating exercises.

Children with TSA tend to rely more about proposing feedback – seizures of muscles and joints – rather than visual indices. These unique motor models suggest that imitation performance could serve as an effective biomarker for TSA.

Historically, the evaluation of imitation was based on human observation. Experts analyze to what extent a child reproduces a movement, but this method has limits. It takes time, requires trained assessors and lack of precision. To improve the process, researchers have developed a technology -based solution: the computerized evaluation of motor imitation (CAMI).

Cami is a one -minute video game that uses movement monitoring technology to assess motor imitation. It eliminates the need for portables or human observers, making it a more evolving and objective diagnostic tool. Developed by researchers from Kennedy Krieger Institute and University Nottingham Trent, the tool represents a breakthrough in the diagnosis of autism.

In a recent study involving 183 children aged 7 to 13, participants copied dance movements from a video avatar while Cami analyzed their performance. The tool identified autistic children with an accuracy of 80% compared to neurotypical peers. More importantly, he distinguished the ADHDD from ADHD with a precision of 70%.

Since TSA and ADHD share overlapping features, even experienced clinicians find it difficult to differentiate them. Cami’s ability to make this distinction marks a significant step forward.

Dr. Stewart Mostofsky, pediatric neurologist and director of Kennedy Krieger Institute, said the importance of a precise diagnosis. “The diagnosis of autism can be difficult, especially when children have traits that overlap with other conditions such as ADHD. If the condition is poorly diagnosed, this may have an impact on support and resources for the child. “

The current diagnostic process for TSA is often expensive and takes time. Families can spend between $ 1,500 and $ 3,000 per year on assessments. Cami offers a faster and low cost alternative that could revolutionize the field.

Dr. Bahar Tunçgenç, expert in social development at Nottingham Trent University, stressed the importance of the tool. “Autism is traditionally considered as a social communication disorder, but we now know the sensory-motor difficulties, such as motor imitation, play a key role in training social skills and communication. Cami identifies autism by explaining these challenges, which are distinct from ADHD. »»

Tunçgenç also underlined the ease of use of CAMP. “What makes Cami exciting is its simplicity. Video games are fun for children, quickly for clinicians and provide clear results. »»

Other refinements could extend Cami applications to younger children and those with serious development challenges. If it is validated in wider populations, it could serve as a largely accessible diagnostic help.

Cam’s potential extends beyond autism. By improving diagnostic accuracy, researchers hope to refine the evaluations of other development conditions, such as development coordination disorders and linguistic disorders. The ability of the tool to capture markers based on movement without relying on verbal communication makes it particularly useful for non -verbal children.

“This tool could transform autism diagnoses around the world,” said Dr. Mostofsky. “By identifying autism as precisely as possible, we can connect children to interventions that improve their quality of life and their long -term results. We want to see a truck used widely in clinics to support diagnosis as a quick, low cost alternative and requires a minimum configuration. »»

While technology continues to shape medical diagnostics, tools like Cami offer hope for faster and more precise assessments. By taking advantage of the monitoring of movement and computer vision, researchers pioneering a new era in the diagnosis of autism, which favors accessibility, precision and early intervention.