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The Guardian - UK
The Guardian - UK
Science
Ian Sample Science editor

Autism could be diagnosed with stool sample, scientists say

Electron microscope view of the human intestinal microbiome.
Electron microscope view of the human intestinal microbiome. Photograph: nopparit/Getty Images

Scientists have raised hopes for a cheap and simple test for autism after discovering consistent differences between the microbes found in the guts of autistic people and those without the condition.

The finding suggests that a routine stool sample test could help doctors identify autism early, meaning people would receive their diagnosis, and hopefully support, much faster than with the lengthy procedure used in clinics today.

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