Autism and Down Syndrome
Dual diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder and Down Syndrome: how it presents, shared and distinct features, and resources for families and professionals
Information on Dual Diagnosis - Autism and Down Syndrome
Having a diagnosis of Autism and Down syndrome is sometimes referred to as ‘dual diagnosis'. A person who has Down syndrome may have a different additional diagnoses, so dual diagnosis should not automatically mean autism, but the phrase tends to be used in this way.
In the past, some professionals considered a dual diagnosis of Autism and Down syndrome to be uncommon, if not impossible. It is now widely accepted that the two conditions can, and do, co-exist.
Research suggests variable but relatively high rates of Autism in children who have Down syndrome. We are beginning to understand that people who have a dual diagnosis may present differently to people who have a single diagnosis of either Down syndrome or Autism.
Research looking at children who have dual diagnosis suggests this group of people may:
- Share a similar profile of communication, stereotypical behaviours & difficulties coping with changes in routine.
- They are less affected by social difficulties & problems with eye-gaze.
- They are more preoccupied with body movement & rituals.
- Have strengths in adaptive functioning, relating to others & imitation.
- Have higher levels of conduct problems & hyperactivity.
- They are more likely to have severe to profound levels of learning disability.