The DSM 5 has been upgraded and provides a more scientific and accurate method for diagnosing Autism Spectrum Disorders. In the past, pervasive development disorders were diagnosed under the following categories: autism, pervasive development disorder not otherwise specified, Asperger's syndrome, and childhood disintegrative disorder. With the changes, these titles will no longer be used to identify specific syndromes, but rather, Autism Spectrum Disorder will encompass all of these groups. A spectrum will continue to be used to distinguish mild to severe symptoms associated with ASD. For more information, please review the
DSM 5 - Autism Spectrum Disorder form.