Children who have difficulty with social communication and behavior are said to have an autism spectrum disorder. There may be large differences between individuals with these disorders, and their symptoms and difficulties may occur along a continuum, or spectrum.

We are constantly learning more about the role of genetics in autism, and, following an autism diagnosis, many families have questions about genetic testing. Here, genetic counselor Hallie Andrew, MS, CGC, answers some of the most common questions about genetic testing.