One-Minute Video Game Revolutionizing Autism Diagnosis

A new video game using motion-tracking technology is changing the way clinicians distinguish autism spectrum disorder (ASD) from attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and neurotypical traits. The Computerised Assessment of Motor Imitation (CAMI) is a quick, engaging, and cost-effective tool that identifies autism-specific motor imitation difficulties with up to 80% accuracy (1^✔ ✔Trusted Source
Evaluating Computerised Assessment of Motor Imitation (CAMI) for identifying autism-specific difficulties not observed for attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder or neurotypical development

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Why Early Diagnosis Matters in Autism

Autism affects 1 in 36 children in the USA and 1 in 100 globally. Early diagnosis is crucial for accessing interventions that improve quality of life. However, traditional diagnostic methods can be time-consuming, costly, and sometimes inaccurate—especially when autism coexists with ADHD, which happens in 50-70% of cases.

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Role of Motor Imitation

Motor imitation is essential for learning and social interaction. Research has consistently shown that children with autism struggle with imitation more than their neurotypical peers. They rely more on proprioceptive (body position) feedback than visual cues, affecting their ability to replicate movements accurately. ADHD, on the other hand, does not show the same distinct motor imitation challenges.

How CAMI Works

CAMI is a one-minute, motion-tracking video game that evaluates imitation skills without wearables or human input. It replaces traditional observational assessments, which require trained professionals and are prone to human error. Studies have found that CAMI is more reliable than these older methods, reaching up to 90% accuracy in distinguishing ASD from neurotypical children.

A Game-Changer for Diagnosis of Autism

The latest findings confirm that CAMI:

• Accurately distinguishes ASD from neurotypical children and those with ADHD
• Is quick, scalable, and cost-effective for clinicians
• Eliminates the need for subjective human observation

While the CAMI method is a major step forward, further research is needed to refine its accuracy across younger age groups and more severe autism cases. However, its potential for precision medicine and early intervention makes it a powerful tool in improving autism diagnosis worldwide.

Reference:

1. Evaluating Computerised Assessment of Motor Imitation (CAMI) for identifying autism-specific difficulties not observed for attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder or neurotypical development - (https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/the-british-journal-of-psychiatry/article/evaluating-computerised-assessment-of-motor-imitation-cami-for-identifying-autismspecific-difficulties-not-observed-for-attentiondeficit-hyperactivity-disorder-or-neurotypical-development/C477940DE501A840F1D85F6CCF7B7D84)

Source-Medindia