While many explanations have been offered for the increased rate of autism, the true cause remains unknown. Nonetheless, in the United States, "diagnoses of autism are increasing faster than any other diagnosis of developmental disability in children." But this statement, like others pertaining to the characteristics of autism and the relevant intervention services, does not tell the whole story for all children diagnosed with autism. Research and intervention, as well as fund-raising and media attention typically exclude those who have additional disabilities or do not speak English. In this article the authors describe the characteristics of autism in deaf children and discuss the importance of diagnosing a hearing loss.