Autism litigation: outcomes for 2010, trends in decision making and changes in diagnostic criteria.

The diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder has systematically risen since Kanner's description in 1943 and Asperger's definition in 1944. An increase in numbers has met with an increase in litigation regarding autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and the Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act (IDEIA). Outcomes that first favored parents (2002-2004) have moved to outcomes favoring school districts.