The test could allow more children to be diagnosed at younger ages. Children are generally not diagnosed with developmental abnormalities until ages 3 or 4.
Researchers studied two groups of children: the first was a control group of children with no risk factors for Autism and the second was a group of children with Autism in their family.
All of the control group children passed the name test at 12 months old. Roughly 86 percent of the children in the other group passed. Three-quarters of the "at risk" children followed to their second birthday were diagnosed with developmental problems.
Of the children who were later diagnosed with Autism, half had failed the name test.
The study's results as well as details of the name test were published in the Archives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine.
Researchers warn that the test should not be used to diagnose Autism but rather an indication that more assessments should be conducted. Judith Gould of the National Autistic Society said early intervention could help children with Autism.
She said, "The diagnostic assessments for autism are thorough and wide-ranging, taking into account a variety of other factors such as eye contact, pointing and showing.
"If parents are concerned about their child's development, they should call the NAS helpline on 0845 070 4004 or seek the opinion of a medical professional."
