As we begin to learn more about ASD, we are finding that it is
so much more than a psychiatric disorder. Every child with ASD is given the same diagnosis, yet they are so unique in how it affects them and what treatment approach will work for them. This unique- ness gives more credibility to the ‘Spectrum’ in Autism Spectrum Disorders. The ‘Spectrum’ may be explained by the fact that every child has had a different pre-conception, conception, in-utero, birth, and childhood environmental influence on their genetic make-up. It is common understanding at this time that ASD is caused by envi- ronmental influence on genetic predisposition.
Autism is a Multi-Systemic Disease ASD does not just affect the brain. It also affects other systems
Autism Spectrum Disorder is Increasing at an Alarming Rate
By: Dr. Robin Russell
utism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is now being diagnosed in 1 in every 68 children, according to the most recent data (2010) from the Center for Disease Control (CDC). When the number is adjusted for gender, it’s 1 in every 42 boys and 1 in every 189 girls.
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Just two years prior in 2008, it was 1 in 88. The number of diagnoses is continuing to increase at an exponential rate, and with that so should our responsibility to research, identify, address, and treat the causes of this disease. It is imperative that medical provid- ers continue to stay abreast of the latest research, evaluation and treatment so that they may be able to prevent and treat ASD in our children.
Definition
According to the latest edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Health Disorders (DSM-5), which was published in 2013, Autism Spectrum Disorders are characterized by deficits in social communication and social interaction, and restrictive repeti- tive behaviors, interests, and activities. This definition and source of definition classifies ASD as a psychiatric disorder.
Digestive System: Decreased activity of digestive enzymes; lactose intolerance; opioid peptides found in urine (gluten and dairy); nutritional deficiencies (Vitamin D, Zn; amino acids); altered fatty acid profiles; dysbiosis (suterella); inflammatory markers; food allergies.
Symptoms In addition to the impaired social, communicative and behav-
ioral symptoms mentioned in the DSM-5 definition, gastrointestinal symptoms are reported by as many as 70% of people with ASD. Gastrointestinal symptoms can include chronic constipation or diar- rhea, alternating constipation with diarrhea, gastro-intestinal reflux disease (GERD), and food allergies/ sensitivities/ intolerances. Sleep problems and sensory issues are also commonly seen in ASD.
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Causes The single cause of ASD has yet to be determined. At this point in time it is theorized that at some point between pre-conception and diagnosis, ASD develops as a result of one or a combination of any of the following:
in the body such as the nervous, immune, detoxification, and diges- tive system. These systems are all intricately connected with one another. The walls of the Gastrointestinal (GI) tract are composed of the enteric nervous system which governs its function. The enteric nervous system is comprised of the same nerve cells that make up the brain and, interestingly enough, communicates with the brain. The GI tract is also lined with immune cells; in fact that is where close to 80% of our immune system resides. Most of the body’s de- toxification takes place in the liver, which is a vital accessory organ of the digestive system.
The following is a glimpse of the research that has been done supporting the notion that ASD can affect multiple body systems.
Nervous System/Brain: Altered neurotransmitter levels, abnor- mal melatonin levels, SERT gene variation (serotonin receptor gene), MET gene variation (responsible for brain development, immune system, and GI repair).
Immune System: Increased pro-inflammatory cytokines; Pro- inflammatory response to dietary proteins; increased family hx of autoimmune disease; maternal exposure to infectious agents during pregnancy; Th2 shift.
Detoxification System: Impaired methylation and sulfation, MTHFR gene mutation, low DPP-IV enzyme levels, COMT gene variant (responsible for Methylation and Neurotransmitter break- down); low antioxidant enzyme activity; heavy metal toxicity.
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