Publicar

57 - RASTREAMENTO PRECOCE DO TRANSTORNO DO ESPECTRO AUTISTA NA CONSULTA PEDIÁTRICA: UMA REVISÃO SOBRE A RELEVÂNCIA DO M-CHAT

Doi: 10.47094/ICOLUBRAPECI.2026/RS-15

PALAVRAS CHAVE: Neurodesenvolvimento. Puericultura. Monitoramento.

KEYWORDS: Neurodevelopment. Child health monitoring. Monitoring.

ABSTRACT:
Introduction: Autism spectrum disorder is a significant neurodevelopmental condition characterized by alterations in communication, social interaction, and restrictive behavioral patterns, with a substantial impact on child development and family quality of life. In recent decades, there has been an increase in diagnosed prevalence and a growing need for strategies aimed at the early identification of warning signs. In this context, pediatric well-child visits play a fundamental role in monitoring neuropsychomotor development, enabling the timely recognition of behavioral and communicative changes. The Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers (M-CHAT) stands out as a widely used screening tool for the early identification of signs suggestive of autism spectrum disorder in children aged 16 to 30 months, facilitating specialized referrals and early interventions. Objective: To discuss the relevance of administering the M-CHAT during pediatric consultations as an early screening strategy for autism spectrum disorder and its impact on the child's neurodevelopmental prognosis. Methodology: This is a narrative literature review based on the analysis of national and international scientific articles published in recent years regarding the early screening of autism spectrum disorder and the use of the M-CHAT in pediatric practice. Results: Scientific evidence demonstrates that the systematic use of the M-CHAT during pediatric consultations enables the early identification of alterations related to social communication, interpersonal interaction, response to social stimuli, joint attention, and language development. Furthermore, the instrument aids in investigating behavioral patterns suggestive of neurodevelopmental disorders, contributing to early multidisciplinary referral and the timely initiation of specialized therapies. Its application during well-child visits also strengthens the monitoring of child development and enhances family support when a diagnosis is suspected. Conclusions: The analyzed literature shows that the M-CHAT is an important tool in pediatric consultations, aiding in the early identification of signs of autism spectrum disorder. Its use facilitates faster access to necessary interventions, fostering better prospects for development, communication, learning, and quality of life during childhood.

Autores

  • Lara Pereira De Souza Martins

  • Laura Nascimento Freitas

Download