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In a groundbreaking development, researchers from Kennedy Krieger Institute and Nottingham Trent University have created a one-minute video game that accurately and efficiently identifies autism in children. This innovative tool, called the Computerized Assessment of Motor Imitation (CAMI), uses motion-tracking technology to detect differences in motor imitation skills.
Revolutionizing Autism Diagnosis
Diagnosing autism can be a complex and time-consuming process, often requiring highly trained clinicians and costing families an estimated $1,500 to $3,000 annually, according to the U.S. National Library of Medicine. However, CAMI offers a simpler, faster, and more cost-effective alternative. In a recent study involving 183 children aged 7-13, the video game demonstrated an 80% success rate in distinguishing children with autism from those who are neurotypical and a 70% success rate in differentiating autism from ADHD.
How CAMI Works
CAMI asks children to mimic dance-like movements of a video avatar for one minute while their imitation performance is measured. Dr. Stewart Mostofsky, a pediatric neurologist and director of the Center for Neurodevelopmental and Imaging Research at Kennedy Krieger Institute, emphasized the significance of this tool:
“Diagnosing autism can be challenging, especially when children have overlapping traits with other conditions like ADHD. If the condition is misdiagnosed, it can impact support and resources for the child.”
Dr. Bahar Tunçgenç, a social development expert at Nottingham Trent University, added:
“Autism is traditionally seen as a social-communication disorder, but we now know sensory-motor difficulties, like motor imitation, play a key role in shaping social and communication skills. CAMI identifies autism by tapping into these challenges, which are distinct from ADHD.”
The Future of Autism Diagnosis
What sets CAMI apart is its simplicity and adaptability. Video games are both enjoyable for children and provide clear, quick results for clinicians. With further development, CAMI could be adapted for younger children and those with more severe developmental challenges, broadening its impact. Researchers hope CAMI’s success will inspire new ways to simplify and improve diagnostic tools for other conditions.
“This tool could transform autism diagnoses worldwide,” said Dr. Mostofsky. “By identifying autism as precisely as possible, we can connect children to interventions that improve their quality of life and long-term outcomes. We want to see CAMI used widely in clinics to support diagnosis as an alternative that is quick, low-cost, and requires minimal set-up.”
This innovative technology marks a significant step forward in improving the accuracy and accessibility of autism diagnoses, potentially transforming the lives of many children worldwide.
Watch the CAMI Demonstration Video
For those interested in seeing CAMI in action, check out the demonstration video here.
Credit: Kennedy Krieger Institute and Nottingham Trent University