Abstract
Although autism was first reported in 1943 nearly 40 years elapsed before the disorder was included as an official diagnosis in the American (DSM) classification system. In the last two decades guidelines for the diagnosis of this, and related, conditions have evolved based on a growing body of research. An important recent development has been the convergence of the American (DSM) and International (ICD) diagnostic systems. Although these two official systems differ somewhat in format and intended use, the advent of consistent approaches to the diagnosis of autism will facilitate both research and clinical service. Data that have informed the development of these systems are reviewed and areas of continuing controversy are noted.

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