Revolutionary Video Game Tool Diagnoses Autism in Just One Minute

**CAMI: A Game-Changer in Autism Diagnosis** A groundbreaking video game tool, the _Computerized Assessment of Motor Imitation_ (CAMI), has been developed by researchers at Kennedy Krieger Institute and Nottingham Trent University. This innovative one-minute game uses motion-tracking technology to identify autism with a remarkable accuracy rate—80% for distinguishing it from neurotypical children and 70% from those with ADHD. ### **The Challenges of Diagnosing Autism** Diagnosing autism, particularly in children who show overlapping traits with conditions like ADHD, is notoriously challenging. Misdiagnoses can lead to inadequate support and resources. Traditional diagnosis methods can be costly, time-consuming, and require highly-skilled clinicians, often costing families significantly. ### **How CAMI Works** The study involved 183 children aged 7-13 who mimicked a video avatar's dance-like movements for one minute. CAMI's success in differentiating autism is linked to its focus on motor imitation skills—a significant, yet often overlooked, component of autism's impact on social and communication skills. Dr. Bahar Tunçgenç emphasizes the tool's potential, noting that while autism is often viewed as a social-communication disorder, sensory-motor challenges play a crucial role. ### **Looking Ahead** The tool's simplicity and efficiency pave the way for potential adaptations for younger and more challenged children. Its creators hope this will spur further innovations in diagnostic tools for other conditions. Dr. Mostofsky envisions CAMI transforming global autism diagnosis practices, enabling earlier interventions and better long-term outcomes for children.