Autism is an array of disorders that are characterized by challenges revolving around social interactions, repetitive behaviour patterns, cognitive delay, speech and nonverbal communication.
What Causes Autism?
The exact cause of autism is unknown, but some of the suspected risk factors include:
- An immediate family member with autism
- X syndrome or genetic disorders
- Genetic mutations
- Metabolic imbalances
- Exposure to an environmental toxin
- Low birth weight
- Viral infection
Autism treatment in India consists of stem cell therapies which are done at some of the well-known hospitals like NeuroGen Brain and Spine Institute based in Mumbai. The neurosurgeons, at various neuro-rehabilitation centers, treat autism with adult stem cells harvested from the bone marrow of the patients themselves. These cells are thoroughly examined and screened for bacteria and viruses before being infused into the patients.
For patients with autism, treatment in India with stem cells is based on their ability to repair the damaged tissue (particularly the brain tissue) and control the immune system. This treatment enhances the flow of oxygenated blood to the brain, repair the damaged arteries and restore the impaired neurons. As the adult stem cells are multipotent cells, they can differentiate into specialized cells like blood cells, glial cells, etc. to provide a positive impact in treating Autism. Therefore, stem cell therapy helps to:
- Increase the blood supply to the damaged tissues with the help of new blood cells
- Merge with the neurons and existing synaptic network
- Release anti-inflammatory cytokines
- Increase blood supply to the damaged tissue of the brain
After Stem cell therapy, patients experience changes right away caused by the different substances secreted by the cells that start modulating inflammation right away. Patients must continue following the recommendations from the physician to create more noticeable changes in behavioural issues.
While there is no complete cure expected, significant improvements in a child with autism after stem cell therapy could entail:
- Improved sitting tolerance
- Better eye contact and fixed gaze and concentration
- Improved behaviour at home and while at play
- Adaptability to loud noise, strangers and bright colours
- Improvement in verbal skills. They are likely to pronounce words and expand their vocabulary
- Developed writing skills
- Improved self-care skills
NeuroGen Brain and Spine Institute is one of the most sought after centers where the team of dedicated neurosurgeons develop a proper plan to achieve maximum results. However, a positive outcome depends on the time of intervention, autism level and the age of the child with autism. NeuroGen BSI is the first hospital to introduce parental training programme and a special lecture programme for parents and caregivers to help them gain a better knowledge to attend the needs of the patient.
