http://apt.rcpsych.org/cgi/content/full/10/5/341 is an informative
article, especially for this adult Aspie who was not dx'd until 60.

==> Diagnosis on its own is of limited value, but it is the gateway
to a great deal of information, specialist groups and resources,
including financial support. It is often not recognised that a
diagnosis is simply a working hypothesis: it is a clinical
judgement that has to strike a balance between being too broad
and being too narrow; and it is a process that can evolve with
time and changing circumstances. It is essential, therefore, that
it is categorical and that everyone involved appreciates its
purpose, as its cut-off points will depend on whether it is
* for research – excluding any doubtful cases;
* clinical – a best guess to guide further treatment;
* administrative – giving access to services or resources, or
being part of legal assessments regarding mental capacity,
reliability as a witness, fitness to plead and level of
responsibility.

==> However, whatever its purpose, a diagnosis should only be
given if it has a useful function.

==> Assessment follows diagnosis and it should be broad and
multidisciplinary (Howlin, 2000), in particular, taking account of:
* cognitive ability – identifying discrepancies between receptive
and expressive, verbal and non-verbal communication;
* functional ability – acknowledging the extent to which problems
in executive function and limited empathy can disable someone
who is otherwise very able; strengths should be identified,
particularly any special talents that may become foundations in
life;
* comorbid developmental disabilities, notably ADHD, tics and
dyspraxia.

Diagnosis and assessment in Asperger syndrome
==> Many people with Asperger syndrome misperceive their
circumstances. It is therefore essential to obtain a
comprehensive picture of them that includes the accounts of
others such as parents, friends, teachers and employers (Green
et al, 2000).

==> A report of the assessment should be given to the patient in
writing, to avoid misunderstandings that might arise with spoken
communication.

==> If Asperger syndrome is suspected, diagnosis needs a
clinician familiar with the syndrome as well as with the
alternatives. The diagnostic judgement should be based on a
developmental history (that takes a lifelong perspective)
combined with a present state examination designed to identify
the features of autism. <==
-----
Well, I find this disquieting. But I hope to return and read more of
the article, to absorb it, so I can better use my own dx in future. It
behooves all of us to learn all we can, as our own health care
professionals often are candid about what they do NOT know.
Mine have been fairly candid about what they can do for me.

Nothing. I missed my chances by growing up before I found this
dx. I cannot provide early-years dx by professionals. Got none.
That's life. Well, it's MY life. Gotta do the best I can with what I've
got, and what I got was my dx - or assessment - in writing! -Zer