About some difficulties in the epidemiological studies of autism

Pervasive developmental disorders are developmental pathologies with a prevalence of one in four hundred. Standardised diagnostic observation is possible thanks to measurement tools such as the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS) and the Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revisited. Here we shall examine difficulties encountered during our experience with 22 families in Laos in March 2015. Problems were observed with the translation of family interviews and psychopathological terms, the adaptation of material for children during ADOS consultations, as well as the points evaluating visual and emotional social interaction. Resolving these problems is partially linked to the social-economical development of the country.