Abstract
OBJECTIVE: The aim of this article is to describe the main differential diagnosis of speech delay in childhood, with an emphasis on the current diagnostic criteria for differentiating between neurodevelopmental disorders, such as Autism Spectrum Disorder, and other differential diagnosis. METHODS: A non-systematic literature review was performed, using the most recent diagnostic criteria and definitions. RESULTS: Speech delay is a common symptom in the pediatric age group which may be present in children with neurodevelopmental disorders, being frequently associated with the Autism Spectrum Disorder. There is, however, a range of possible alternative diagnoses that may present with language delay and that must be considered in the differential diagnosis, such as other neurodevelopmental disorders, hearing impairment, and language disorders. CONCLUSION: Pediatricians play an important role in the assessment, investigation and management of children with speech delay. Thus, they must be familiar with expected neurodevelopmental milestones, as well as with red flags for development delay in all domains, including language, and for the diagnostic criteria for the most common disorders.