Autism is a disorder of neural development characterized by impaired social interaction and communication, and by restricted and repetitive behavior. These signs all begin before a child is three years old. Autism affects information processing in the brain by altering how nerve cells and their synapses connect and organize; how this occurs is not well understood. It is one of three recognized disorders in the autism spectrum (ASDs), the other two being Asperger syndrome, which lacks delays in cognitive development and language, and Pervasive Developmental Disorder-Not Otherwise Specified (commonly abbreviated as PDD-NOS), which is diagnosed when the full set of criteria for autism or Asperger syndrome are not met.
Autism has a strong genetic basis, although the genetics of autism are complex and it is unclear whether ASD is explained more by rare mutations, by rare combinations of common genetic variants or by external influences causing changes in gene expression. In some cases, autism is strongly associated with agents that cause birth defects. Controversies surround other proposed environmental causes, such as heavy metals, pesticides or childhood vaccines; The vaccine hypotheses are biologically rejected by some as implausible and lacking convincing scientific evidence, however in clinic practice one sees numerous exceptions to this skepticism.
Common findings associated with the biomedical approach to ASD include a triad of immune dysregulation, gastrointestinal dysbiosis and detoxification pathway difficulties. Excellent results have been achieved by these practitioners in a number of patients. A primary organization involved in this area is the Autism Research Institute.
The prevalence of autism is about 1–2 per 1,000 people; the prevalence of ASD is about 6 per 1,000, with about four times as many males as females. The number of people diagnosed with autism has increased dramatically since the 1980s, partly due to changes in diagnostic practice; the question of whether actual prevalence has increased is unresolved.
Stem Cells
Good physicians treat Autism uniquely. In addition to the biomedical and psychological approaches typically employed, the use stem cells from bone marrow or cord blood is added.
The use of stem cells addresses a number of areas of misdirected metabolic function. At present, clinical research studies have shown changes in immune, gastrointestinal and inflammation markers and function. Our “typical” patients have experienced positive changes in perception and cognition, along with fine motor skill enhancement. GI distress and response to illness has also improved.
James W. Partington, PhD, BCBA-D is the author of “Capturing the Motivation of Children with Autism” and “The Assessment of Language and Learning Skills-Revised” (The ABLLS®R) We employ his ABLLS®R to better understand and document the patient’s pre and post treatment status. By collecting scientific data of the patient’s treatment and following their outcomes, we can provide optimal treatments..