Autism spectrum disorders

By Kimmer Collison-RisMSN FNP-C WOCN MS CAM

Images by Google

Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) amp autism are general terms for a group of complex disorders of brain development

Believed to have its roots in early brain development yet there is other evidence to suggest it is caused by either

Genetics

Faulty MTHFR genes

post natal infectionsviruses

or environmental assaults

These disorders are characterized in varying degrees by

difficulties in social interaction

verbal and nonverbal communication

repetitive behaviors

With the May 2013 publication of the DSM-5 diagnostic manual all autism disorders were merged into one umbrella diagnosis of ASD

Previously they were recognized as distinct subtypes including

autistic disorder

childhood disintegrative disorder

pervasive developmental disorder-not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS)

Asperger syndrome

Autism statistics from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) identify around 1 in 68 American children as on the autism spectrumndasha ten-fold increase in prevalence in 40 years

Careful research shows that this increase is only partly explained by improved diagnosis and awareness

Studies demonstrate that autism is 4-5 times more common among boys than girls

An estimated 1 out of 42 boys and 1 in 189 girls are diagnosed with autism in the United States

There is no one cause of autism andthere is no one type of autism

Most cases of autism appear to be caused by a combination of

autism risk genes + environmental factors = influence early brain development

RISK FACTORS

events before andor during birth or post-natally

advanced parental age at time of conception (both mom and dad)

maternal illness during pregnancy

certain difficulties during birth (esp fetal oxygen deprivation)

combination of events with genetic risk factors appear to modestly increase risk

Herbert MR (2010) Contributions of the environment and environmentally vulnerable physiology to autism spectrum disorders

Purpose of review This review presents a rationale and evidence for contributions of environmental influences and environmentally vulnerable physiology to autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) Recent findings Recent studies suggest a substantial increase in ASD prevalence above earlier Centers for Disease Control figures of one in 150 only partly explicable by data artifacts underscoring the possibility of environmental contributors to increased prevalence Some gene variants in ASD confer altered vulnerability to environmental stressors and exposures De-novo mutations and advanced parental age as a risk factor for ASD also suggest a role for environment Systemic and central nervous system pathophysiology including oxidative stress neuroinflammation and mitochondrial dysfunction can be consistent with a role for environmental influence (eg from air pollution organophosphates heavy metals) in ASD and some of the underlying biochemical disturbances (such as abnormalities in glutathione a critical antioxidant and detoxifier) can be reversed by targeted nutritional interventions Dietary factors and food contaminants may contribute risk Improvement and loss of diagnosis in some with ASD suggest brain circuitry amenable to environmental modulation Summary Prevalence genetic exposure and pathophysiological evidence all suggest a role for environmental factors in the inception and lifelong modulation of ASD This supports the need for seeking targets for early and ongoing medical prevention and treatment of ASD

T Schettler (2001) Toxic threats to neurologic development of children Environ Health Perspect

Learning disabilities attention deficit hyperactivity disorder developmental delays and emotional and behavioral problems are among childhood disabilities of increasing concern Interacting genetic environmental and social factors are important determinants of childhood brain development and function For many reasons however studying neurodevelopmental vulnerabilities in children is challenging Moreover inadequate incidence and trend data interfere with full understanding of the magnitude of the problem Despite these difficulties extensive laboratory and clinical studies of several neurodevelopmental toxicants including lead mercury polychlorinated biphenyls alcohol and nicotine demonstrate the unique vulnerability of the developing brain to environmental agents at exposure levels that have no lasting effect in adults Historically understanding the effects of these toxicants on the developing brain has emerged slowly while generations of children are exposed to unsafe levels Unfortunately with few exceptions neurodevelopmental toxicity data are missing for most industrial chemicals in widespread use even when populationwide exposures are documented The personal family and communitywide costs of developmental disabilities are profound In addition to the need for more research a preventive public health response requires mitigation of exposures to potential neurodevelopmental toxicants when available evidence establishes the plausibility of harm despite residual toxicologic uncertainties

Blaylock RL (2009)A POSSIBLE CENTRAL MECHANISM IN AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDERS PART 2 IMMUNOEXCITOTOXiCITY

In this section I explore the effects of mercury and inflammation on transsulfuration reactions which can lead to elevations in androgens and how this might relate to the male preponderance of autism spectrum disorders (ASD) It is known that mercury interferes with these biochemical reactions and that chronically elevated androgen levels also enhance the neurodevelopmental effects of excitotoxins Both androgens and glutamate alter neuronal and glial calcium oscillations which are known to regulate cell migration maturation and final brain cytoarchitectural structure Studies have also shown high levels of DHEA and low levels of DHEA-S in ASD which can result from both mercury toxicity and chronic inflammation Chronic microglial activation appears to be a hallmark of ASD Peripheral immune stimulation mercury and elevated levels of androgens can all stimulate microglial activation Linked to both transsulfuration problems and chronic mercury toxicity are elevations in homocysteine levels in ASD patients Homocysteine and especially its metabolic products are powerful excitotoxins Intimately linked to elevations in DHEA excitotoxicity and mercury toxicity are abnormalities in mitochondrial function A number of studies have shown that reduced energy production by mitochondria greatly enhances excitotoxicity Finally 1 discuss the effects of chronic inflammation and elevated mercury levels on glutathione and metallothionein

How Inflammation Affects the Developing Brain

Inflammation appears to play a role in the developing brain as the same damaging effects of inflammatory chemical mediators of in the adult appear to cause the same issues in the delicate brains of infants and young children

Recent study published in the journal BMC Pediatrics researchers investigated frequency of febrile illnesses in infants and blood markers of increased inflammation

IL-1 beta IL-6 and IL-4

Discovered direct relationship between higher levels of inflammatory markers and risk for developmental issues

Higher levels of IL-4

is associated with lower levels of inflammation

correlates with reduced risk for developmental issues

authors cited ldquoEvery additional 10 days of fever is associated with

19 decrease in language composite score

21 decrease in motor composite scorerdquo

Role of inflammation in brain health and function represents fundamental importance through the age continuum

Re infant health requires managing inflammation to maintain a healthy immune systemhealth

Steps to include

minimizing antibiotic exposure spacing immunizations breastfeeding and avoiding caesarean section

(Retrieved from httpwwwdrperlmuttercominflammation-affects-developing-brainutm_source=facebookamputm_medium=facebookpostamputm_content=bloginfantinflammationamputm_campaign=Facebook20Posts)

Stein J Schettler T Wallinga D and Valenti M (2002) In harms way toxic threats to child development

Developmental disabilities result from complex interactions of genetic toxicologic (chemical) and social factors Among these various causes toxicologic exposures deserve special scrutiny because they are readily preventable This article provides an introduction to some of the literature addressing the effects of these toxicologic exposures on the developing brain This body of research demonstrates cause for serious concern that commonly encountered household and environmental chemicals contribute to developmental disabilities The developing brain is uniquely susceptible to permanent impairment by exposure to environmental substances during time windows of vulnerability Lead mercury and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) have been extensively studied and found to impair development at levels of exposure currently experienced by significant portions of the general population High-dose exposures to each of these chemicals cause catastrophic developmental effects More recent research has revealed toxicity at progressively lower exposures illustrating a declining threshold of harm commonly observed with improved understanding of developmental toxicants For lead mercury and PCBs recent studies reveal that background-population exposures contribute to a wide variety of problems including impairments in attention memory learning social behavior and IQ Unfortunately for most chemicals there is little data with which to evaluate potential risks to neurodevelopment Among the 3000 chemicals produced in highest volume (over 1 million lbsyr) only 12 have been adequately tested for their effects on the developing brain This is a matter of concern because the fetus and child are exposed to untold numbers quantities and combinations of substances whose safety has not been established Child development can be better protected by more precautionary regulation of household and environmental chemicals Meanwhile health care providers and parents can play an important role in reducing exposures to a wide variety of known and suspected neurodevelopmental toxicants that are widely present in consumer products food the home and wider community

Mercury Exposure symptoms share similarities wASD amp NDD 2nd sx

Mercury exposure at high levels harm the brain heart kidneys lungs and immune system across the age continuum

Research confirms high methylmercuryblood levels in fetal amp young children injure the developing nervous system decreasing cognition and learning

At high levels of exposure methylmercurysharmful effects on animals include

death

reduced reproduction

slower growth amp development

abnormal behavior

In utero exposure adversely affects the fetal brainnervous system

Children demonstrate deficits in

cognitive thinking

memory

attention

language

fine motor

visual spatial skills

Symptoms Methylmercury exposure

impairment of the peripheral vision

disturbances in sensations

pins and needles of hands feet peri oral

Impaired coordination

impaired speech hearing ambulation

muscle weakness

Symptoms high inorganic mercury exposure

skin rashes amp dermatitis

mood swings

memory loss

mental disturbances

muscle weakness

Symptoms of elemental mercury effects

tremors

emotional changes (mood swings irritability nervousness excessive shyness)

insomnia

neuromuscular changes (weakness muscle atrophy twitching)

headaches


changes in nerve responses

cognitive function deficits

Methods of mercury exposure

Amalgam dental fillings (primary)

Fresh waterfarmed salt water fish (secondary)

Some vaccines

Industrialwork place exposures (paint hospital home)

Glass thermometers or Energy efficient light bulbs (dropping or breaking)

Toxic mercury vapors released

Computerelectronic equipment

some cosmetics (calomel)

Some hair bleaching products

Classic signs of mercury poisoning

loss of hair

discolored fingernails

Gums wrdquoTatoordquo staining from amalgam leakage

Symptoms of human mercury poisoning

1 Psychological disturbances

Angry fits short term memory loss low self esteem inability to sleep loss of self-control sleepiness loss of an ability to learn new things doing things by rote

2 Oral Cavity problems

Inflammation of the mouth loss of bone around teeth ulcerated gums and other areas in the mouth loose teeth darkening of gums taste of metal bleeding of gums

3 Digestive tract problems

Cramps inflamed colon GI problems Diarrhea and other digestive problems

4 Cardiovascular problems

Weak pulse blood pressure changes chest pain or feeling of pressure in the chest area

5 Respiratory problems

Weakness and problems with breathing Emphysema Coughing persistently

6 Neurological Problems

Headaches vertigo tinnitus shaking in various areas of the body (eye lids feet etc)

Mercury poisoning in Children is a cause of many secondary sx s of ASDNDD

Common pediatric neurological sx

decreased eye contact

flat affect

repeating certain actions over and over again

not responding to their name

not looking at an object that is being pointed at by another

poor concentration or attention

sensitivity to sensory stimulation

Common languagespeech manifestations

loss of speech

delayed speech decreased understanding and articulating words

remembering certain words

Common are social manifestations

withdrawal

being irritated

aggressive behavior

night terrors

other sleep problems

mood swings

Other auto-immune symptoms

multiple sclerosis

juvenile diabetes

asthma

chromic ear infections

decreased immunity

The World Health Organization

(WHO) ldquothere is NO KNOWN SAFE

LEVEL of mercury exposurerdquo httpwwwdentalwellness4ucomlaypersonsymptomshtml

Frustaci A Neri M Cesario A Adams JB Domenici E Bernardina BD and Bonassi S (2012) Oxidative stress-related biomarkers in autism Systematic review and meta-analyses

Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) are rarely diagnosed in children younger than 2 years because diagnosis is based entirely on behavioral tests Oxidative damage may play a central role in this pathogenesis together with the interconnected transmethylation cycle and transsulfuration pathway In an attempt to clarify and quantify the relationship between oxidative stress-related blood biomarkers and ASDs a systematic literature review was carried out For each identified study mean biomarker levels were compared in cases and controls providing a point estimate the mean ratio for each biomarker After meta-analysis the ASD patients showed decreased blood levels of reduced glutathione (27) glutathione peroxidase (18) methionine (13) and cysteine (14) and increased concentrations of oxidized glutathione (45) relative to controls whereas superoxide dismutase homocysteine and cystathionine showed no association with ASDs For the C677T allele in the methylene tetrahydrofolate reductase gene (MTHFR) homozygous mutant subjects (TT) showed a meta-OR of 226 (95 CI 130ndash391) of being affected by ASD with respect to the homozygous nonmutant(CC) Case-control studies on blood levels of vitamins suggest a lack of association (folic acid and vitamin B12) or rare association (vitamins A B6 C D E) Sparse results were available for other biomarkers (ceruloplasmin catalase cysteinylglycine thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances nitric oxide) and for polymorphisms in other genes Existing evidence is heterogeneous and many studies are limited by small sample size and effects In conclusion existing evidence suggests a role for glutathione metabolism the transmethylation cycle and the transsulfuration pathway although these findings should be interpreted with caution and larger more standardized studies are warranted

Allergy-an immune hyperactive response to substances considered foreign to the body

Common Allergens food pollen drugs dust

acquired thru life

some individuals are susceptible gtothers

Requires 1 exposure to substance to become sensitized or allergic

Conventional Medicine ndash

directed to block the immune response or suppress immune function wsteroids topically amp systemically

Naturopathic ndash

identify amp eliminate underlying cause verses masking symptoms

Most allergies result from decreased mucous membranes integrity that leak foreign substances along wrepeat exposure to these

weak digestion + poor diet increased volume of undigested food particles in the gut

Once foreign substance enters bloodstreamallergic responses triggered

enter frequently as damaged mucous membranes unable to serve as barriers

One carbon metabolism disturbances and the C677T MTHFR gene polymorphism in children with autism spectrum disorders

Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) which include the prototypic autistic disorder (AD) Aspergerrsquos syndrome (AS) and pervasive developmental disorders not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS) are complex neurodevelopmental conditions of unknown aetiology The current study investigated the metabolites in the methionine cycle the transsulphurationpathway folate vitamin B12 and the C677T polymorphism of the MTHFR gene in three groups of children diagnosed with AD (n= 15) AS (n= 5) and PDD-NOS (n= 19) and their age-and sex-matched controls (n= 25) No metabolic disturbances were seen in the AS patients while in the AD and PDD-NOS groups lower plasma levels of methionine (P= 001 and P= 003 respectively) and α-aminobutyrate were observed (P= 001 and P= 0001 respectively) Only in the AD group plasma cysteine (P= 002) and total blood glutathione (P= 002) were found to be reduced Although there was a trend towards lower levels of serine glycine N N-dimethylglycine in AD patients the plasma levels of these metabolites as well as the levels of homocysteine and cystathionine were not statistically different in any of the ASDs groups The serum levels of vitamin B12 and folate were in the normal range The results of the MTHFR gene analysis showed a normal distribution of the C677T polymorphism in children with ASDs but the frequency of the 677T allele was slightly more prevalent in AD patients Our study indicates a possible role for the alterations in one carbon metabolism in the pathophysiology of ASDs and provides for the first time preliminary evidence for metabolic and genetic differences between clinical subtypes of ASDs (Paşca SP Dronca E Kaucsaacuter T Crǎciun EC Endreffy E Ferencz BK Iftene F Benga I Cornean R Banerjee R and Dronca M 2009)

Currenti SA (2010) Understanding and Determining the Etiology of Autism Cellular and

Molecular Neurobiology March 2010 Volume 30 Issue 2 pp 161-171 Retrieved from

httplinkspringercomarticle101007s10571-009-9453-8

Worldwide the rate of autism has been steadily rising There are several environmental

factors in concert with genetic susceptibilities that are contributing to this rise Impaired

methylation and mutations of mecp2 have been associated with autistic spectrum

disorders and related Rett syndrome Genetic polymorphisms of cytochrome P450

enzymes have also been linked to autism specifically CYP27B1 that is essential for proper

vitamin D metabolism Vitamin D is important for neuronal growth and

neurodevelopment and defects in metabolism or deficiency have been implicated in

autistic individuals Other factors that have been considered include maternally derived

antibodies maternal infection heavy metal exposure folic acid supplementation

epigenetics measles mumps rubella vaccination and even electromagnetic radiation In

each case the consequences whether direct or indirect negatively affect the nervous

system neurodevelopment and environmental responsive genes The etiology of autism

is a topic of controversial debate while researchers strive to achieve a common

objective The goal is to identify the cause(s) of autism to understand the complex

interplay between environment and gene regulation There is optimism that specific

causes and risk factors will be identified The results of future investigations will

facilitate enhanced screening prevention and therapy for ldquoat riskrdquo and autistic patients

Bradshaw AJL and Rinehart NJ (2005) Autism and Aspergers disorder Are they

movement disorders involving the cerebellum andor basal ganglia Brain Research

Bulletin Volume 67 Issue 4 30 October 2005 Pages 327ndash334

Autism and Aspergers disorder (AD) are childhood developmental disorders of unknown etiology Autism and AD share several behavioral features and it is not clear whether they are distinct disorders or variants of the same disorder Recent studies indicate that disordered movement may be another feature of autism and AD and that this may reflect dysfunction within the frontostriatal andor cerebellar motor circuits While disordered movement in autism and AD has been examined in a variety of ways it is relatively under-researched compared to the cognitive affective and behavioral disturbances seen in these disorders This review examines the role of the frontostriatal and cerebellar motor systems in the behavioral features of autism and AD with gait as a proxy and discusses difficulties with their diagnosis and their possible pathogenesis

Sleep disorders are more common in persons with ASD

Sleep Disorders include

Difficulty falling asleep

Inconsistent sleep routines

Restlessness or poor sleep quality

Waking early frequently and abruptly

increased sensitivity to outside stimuli (touch or sound)

Studies demonstrate children with ASD fail to release melatonin at the correct day times hours causing high levels of melatonin during the day and lower levels when they need it at night

Commonly melatonin levels rise in response to darkness and dip during the daylight hours

Melatonin requires an amino acid tryptophan which research has also discovered is either higher or lower than normal in ASD children

Anxiety is secondary symptom that may adversely affect sleep

ASD Children tend to test higher than other children for anxiety

ldquoIndividuals with autism also have gifts The gifts of autism occur as a result of the strong visual abilities attention to minute details unusual interests and amazing memory Other common traits such as honesty naivetegrave gentleness compliance and perfectionism are exceedingly refreshing and unexpected in this increasingly cynical worldrdquoJanzen J E (1999) Autism Facts and strategies for Parents p 151

No big smiles or other warm joyful expressions

by six months or thereafter

No back-and-forth sharing of sounds smiles or

other facial expressions by nine months

No babbling by 12 months

No back-and-forth gestures such as pointing

showing reaching or waving by 12 months

No words by 16 months

No meaningful two-word phrases (not

including imitating or repeating) by 24 months

Any loss of speech babbling or social skills at

any age

ldquoThe major source of stress in life for the person with Aspergers Syndrome is social contact and increased stress generally leads to anxiety disorders and depressionrdquoAttwood T Aspergers Syndrome A Guide for Parents and Professionals 1998 p 148

McAlonan GM Daly E Kumari V Critchley HD van Amelsvoort T Suckling J Simmons A Sigmundsson T Greenwood K Russell A Schmitz N Happe F Howlin P and Murphy DGM (2002) Brain anatomy and sensorimotor gating in Aspergerrsquos syndrome

Aspergerrsquos syndrome (an autistic disorder) is characterized by stereotyped and obsessional behaviors and pervasive abnormalities in socio‐emotional and communicative behavior These symptoms lead to social exclusion and a significant healthcare burden however their neurobiological basis is poorly understood There are few studies on brain anatomy of Aspergerrsquos syndrome and no focal anatomical abnormality has been reliably reported from brain imaging studies of autism although there is increasing evidence for differences in limbic circuits These brain regions are important in sensorimotor gating and impaired lsquogatingrsquo may partly explain the failure of people with autistic disorders to inhibit repetitive thoughts and actions Thus we compared brain anatomy and sensorimotor gating in healthy people with Aspergerrsquos syndrome and controls We included 21 adults with Aspergerrsquos syndrome and 24 controls All had normal IQ and were aged 18ndash49 years We studied brain anatomy using quantitative MRI and sensorimotor gating using prepulse inhibition of startle in a subset of 12 individuals with Aspergerrsquos syndrome and 14 controls We found significant age‐related differences in volume of cerebral hemispheres and caudate nuclei (controls but not people with Aspergerrsquos syndrome had age‐related reductions in volume) Also people with Aspergerrsquos syndrome had significantly less grey matter in frontostriatal and cerebellar regions than controls and widespread differences in white matter Moreover sensorimotor gating was significantly impaired in Aspergerrsquos syndrome People with Aspergerrsquos syndrome most likely have generalized alterations in brain development but this is associated with significant differences from controls in the anatomy and function of specific brain regions implicated in behaviors characterizing the disorder We hypothesize that Aspergerrsquos syndrome is associated with abnormalities in frontostriatal pathways resulting in defective sensorimotor gating and consequently characteristic difficulties inhibiting repetitive thoughts speech and actions

Asperger Syndrome is a developmental disorder characterized

by

repetitive routines or rituals

peculiarities in speechlanguage (overly formal speech or monotone

or takes speech literally)

socially amp emotionally inappropriate behavior

inability to interact successfully with peers

problems with non-verbal communication

restricted use of gestures

limited or inappropriate facial expressions

peculiar stiff gaze

Clumsiness and uncoordinated motor movements

(characteristics cont)

intelligence appeared normal

lacked nonverbal communication skills

failed to demonstrate empathy with their peers

speaking disjointed or overly formal

Demonstrates all absorbing interest in a single topic which dominates their conversations

Individuals who are diagnosed with autism or autism spectrum disorder who have normal cognitive abilities and experienced no significant delay in acquiring language skills are very similar to individuals with High Functioning Autism Spectrum Disorder (HFA) and Asperger Syndrome share similar symptoms and are helped by similar treatment approaches

AS may be hard to differentiate from those of other behavioral issues like attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

An ADHD diagnosis may be later changed to AS when issues appear to be caused more by the inability to socialize instead of an inability to focus

Common AS sx

improper of very few social interactions

robotic or repetitive speech

average or below average nonverbal communication skills yet average or above average verbal communications skills

tendency to discuss self rather than others

inability to understand issues or phrases that are considered common sense

lack of eye contact or reciprocal conversation

obsession with specific unique topics

one-sided conversations

awkward movements andor mannerisms

inability to understand the actions words or behaviors of other people

often donrsquot understand humor or the implications of particular phrases or actions of other people

unable to see the relationship between these nonverbal communication methods and verbal methods like speech and language

have difficulty seeing things from another personrsquos perspective

Difficulty regluating their emotions

Sensory Integration is the ability to take in information through sensesto put it together with prior information memories and knowledge stored in the brain and to make a meaningful responseldquo The SPD child may frequently respond to or register sensory information without the ability to screen out nonessential sensory information or the child may fail to register the input from one or more senses

Miller LJ and Schaaf RC (2008) Sensory Processing Disorder

Sensory processing disorder (SPD) is a complex developmental disorder affecting children and adults These people over-respond under-respond excessively craveseek out intense sensory experiences have difficulty discriminating sensation or respond to sensory input in an atypical manner impacting their daily life activities Sensory integration theory was developed by Dr A Jean Ayres in the 1970s and 1980s This article updates the theory and presents a new taxonomy to classify SPD into three classic patterns sensory modulation disorder sensory discrimination disorder and sensory-based motor disorder Intervention for SPD occupational therapy using a sensory integrative approach is briefly described A brief review of intervention effectiveness studies is presented in this article

Reisman J (2008) Sensory processing disorders Minnesota Medicine [2002 85(11)48-51] Retrieved from httpeuropepmcorgabstractMED12498067

Most people are able to effectively process and respond to the sensory stimuli of daily life But people who have sensory processing disorders struggle to form meaningful responses to sensory stimuli As a result these individuals often exhibit problems with coordination sensory-seeking or sensory-avoiding behaviors and sensory modulation

Effects of Disordered Sensory Integration (SPD)

Distractible hyperactive uninhibited

Behavior Problems

Poor Speech Development

Difficulty establishing sleeping and eating patterns

Disorders of muscle tone

Poor Gross andor Fine Motor Coordination

Learning disabilities

Social problems

Unable to calm or console themselves

Irritable difficult to soothe emotionally liable

Hypersensitive to touch

Aggressive

Avoidant withdrawing

Intolerant of daily routines

Rigid about textures feel

Hypersensitive to auditory visual olfactoryvestibular stimuli

Lacks purpose in activity

Often does not manipulate toys or play with them creatively

Often does not explore the environment

Plays very repetitively with toys

Prefers only one type of activity

Seeks excessive or vigorous sensory input

Fight flight or frightrdquo response to sensory information most people would consider harmless

A high incidence of sensory processing difficulties exists in children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and children with Sensory Modulation Disorder (SMD)

(Schoen SA Miller LJ Brett-Green BA and Nielsen DM 2009)

Unusual sensory processing has been widely reported in autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) however the majority of research in this area has focused on children The present study assessed sensory processing in adults with ASD using the AdultAdolescent Sensory Profile (AASP) a 60-item self-report questionnaire assessing levels of sensory processing in everyday life Results demonstrated that sensory abnormalities were prevalent in ASD with 944 percent of the ASD sample reporting extreme levels of sensory processing on at least one sensory quadrant of the AASP Furthermore analysis of the patterns of sensory processing impairments revealed striking within-group variability in the ASD group suggesting that individuals with ASD could experience very different yet similarly severe sensory processing abnormalities These results suggest that unusual sensory processing in ASD extends across the lifespan and have implications regarding both the treatment and the diagnosis of ASD in adulthood

Crane L Goddard L and Pring L (2009) Sensory processing in adults with autism spectrum disorders

Inflammation good or bad for ADHD ADHD Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorders

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is characterized by the typical behavioral core

symptoms of inattentiveness hyperactivity and impulsiveness ADHD is a usually chronic health

conditions mostly diagnosed in childhood creating a significant challenge for youth their families and

professionals who treat it This disorder requires long-term treatments including psychotherapeutic

and pharmacological interventions which in some cases may lead to adverse effects Understanding

the mechanism by which ADHD risk factors affect the biochemical processes in the human brain and

consequentially the behavior will help to identify novel targets for the development of therapeutics

with less adverse results and better efficacy including higher responder rates Although inflammatory

responses in the brain have been recognized for years as critical in neurodegeneration and behavior in

a number of neurological and psychiatric disorders their role for the development treatment and

prevention of ADHD has been so far largely overlooked although historically ADHD symptoms were

initially observed in patients who survived an ONJ infection ie inflammation In this review we

discuss the interrelationship between different ADHD risk factors and inflammation with respect to the

triggered molecular mechanisms and the contribution they are likely to have to this disorder This

paper provides a rationale for future studies on ADHD with an intent to inspiring the development of

new agents for a more efficient management of this disorder (Doney and Thome 2010)

ldquoAccording to the Centers for Disease Control greater than 9 percent of children in the United States

suffer from ADHD (1) This is approximately half the percentage of children who are obese (2) I

suggest that both conditions are related to increased inflammation induced by radical changes in the

American diet during the past 40 yearsrdquo (Sears 2011)

Mangeot SD Miller LJ McIntosh DN McGrath-Clarke J Simon J Hagerman RJ and

Goldson E (2001) Sensory modulation dysfunction in children with attention-deficit-

hyperactivity disorder

This study investigates the presence of sensory modulation dysfunction (SMD) among

children with attention-deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) Twenty-six children with

ADHD (mean age 83 years 18 males 8 females) and 30 typically developing children

(mean age 82 years 21 males 9 females) were tested using a laboratory procedure

that gauges responses to repeated sensory stimulation by measuring electrodermal

reactivity (EDR) Parental report measures of limitations in sensory emotional and

attentional dimensions were administered using the Short Sensory Profile the Leiter

International Performance Scale-Revised Parent Rating subscales and the Child

Behavior Checklist (CBCL) Compared to the typical sample the children with ADHD

displayed greater abnormalities in sensory modulation on both physiological and parent-

report measures The children with ADHD also displayed more variability in responses

Within the group with ADHD levels of SMD were highly correlated with measures of

psychopathology on the CBCL Implications of findings relate to the importance of

considering sensory processing abilities in a subgroup of children with ADHD

While Homeobotanicals (Hb)

formulas do not cure sx of

ASD or NDD they can lessen

or soften 2nd symptoms

Hb A (Allergy)

Hb B (Blood Purifier)

Hb E (EmotionStress)

Hb D amp G (Digestion amp GI)

Hb Z (Sleep)

Hb Q (quietcalm)

Hb I (ImmuneInfection)

Hb T (Tired)

Hb Detoxa

Hb First Aid

Hb Marina

Hb Nutria

Hb Promyer

Hb Serena

1Organic Diet-

minimizes damage to intestinal lining

provides required nutrients for intestinal regeneration

Strengthens intestinal amp respiratory mucous membrane integrity

2 Avoid eating same foods daily

practice variety amp rotationmdashdecreases repeated contact with same foreign substances

decreasing acquiring allergies

3 Use dietary antioxidant supplements ndash

assist mucous membranes integrity

prevent damage

4Minimize environmental chemicals amp toxin exposure (they overload the immune system)

including

Heavy metal exposure (mercury lead aluminum)

food additivespreservativescolorssugars

cleaning materialsdetergents

Pesticides

immunizations

Paints

5 cleansingdetox program

6 Avoid immunizations or limit exposure by spacing out 1 per time

Autism Speaks (2014) What is AutismAutism Spectrum Disorders httpwwwautismspeaksorgwhat-autism

httpwwwhbcicom~wenonahnew9stepshtm

Bradshaw AJL and Rinehart NJ (2005) Autism and Aspergers disorder Are they movement disorders involving the cerebellum andor basal ganglia Brain Research Bulletin Volume 67 Issue 4 30 October 2005 Pages 327ndash334

Blaylock RL (2009)A POSSIBLE CENTRAL MECHANISM IN AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDERS PART 2 IMMUNOEXCITOTOXiCITY Alternative Therapies in Health amp Medicine JanFeb2009 Vol 15 Issue 1 p60-67 8p Retrieved from httpwebaebscohostcomabstractdirect=trueampprofile=ehostampscope=siteampauthtype=crawlerampjrnl=10786791ampAN=37570226amph=JpN2y2b2b6SmKzaEfH1cPa1eANggO0w08mWWjMYLQxcg2bWBhvSuZfQYjDUcrc6X4kJcWZUXifdmHGXgGQrkCc9tQ3d3dampcrl=c

Doney R and Thome J (2010) Inflammation good or bad for ADHD ADHD Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorders December 2010 Volume 2 Issue 4 pp 257-266 Retrieved from httplinkspringercomarticle101007s12402-010-0038-7

Dunn Winnie Bennett Donna () Patterns of sensory processing in children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder Occupational Therapy Journal of Research Vol 22(1) 2002 4-15Retrieved from httppsycnetapaorgpsycinfo2002-00678-001

Crane L Goddard L and Pring L (2009) Sensory processing in adults with autism spectrum disorders doi 1011771362361309103794 Autism May 2009 vol 13 no 3 215-228 Retrieved from httpautsagepubcomcontent133215short

Currenti SA (2010) Understanding and Determining the Etiology of Autism Cellular and Molecular Neurobiology March 2010 Volume 30 Issue 2 pp 161-171 Retrieved from httplinkspringercomarticle101007s10571-009-9453-8

Frustaci A Neri M Cesario A Adams JB Domenici E Bernardina BD and Bonassi S () Oxidative stress-related biomarkers in autism Systematic review and meta-analyses Free Radical Biology and Medicine Volume 52 Issue 10 15 May 2012 Pages 2128ndash2141 Retrieved from httpwwwsciencedirectcomsciencearticlepiiS0891584912001827httpwwwsciencedirectcomsciencearticlepiiS0891584912001827

Herbert MR (2010) Contributions of the environment and environmentally vulnerable physiology to autism spectrum disorders Current Opinion in Neurology April 2010 - Volume 23 - Issue 2 - p 103ndash110 doi 101097WCO0b013e328336a01f Developmental disorders Edited by Geraldine Dawson Retrieved from httpjournalslwwcomco-neurologyAbstract201004000Contributions_of_the_environment_and4aspx

McAlonan GM Daly E Kumari V Critchley HD van Amelsvoort T Suckling J Simmons A Sigmundsson T

Greenwood K Russell A Schmitz N Happe F Howlin P and Murphy DGM (2002) Brain anatomy and

sensorimotor gating in Aspergerrsquos syndrome Brain (2002) 125 (7) 1594-1606 doi

101093brainawf150

Miller LJ and Schaaf RC (2008) Sensory Processing Disorder Encyclopedia of Infant and Early Childhood

Development (2008) pp 127-136 doi101016b978-012370877-900142-0 Retrieved from

httpwwwciteulikeorggroup18153article12522264

Paşca SP Dronca E Kaucsaacuter T Crǎciun EC Endreffy E Ferencz BK Iftene F Benga I Cornean R Banerjee

R and Dronca M (2009) One carbon metabolism disturbances and the C677T MTHFR gene polymorphism

in children with autism spectrum disorders Journal of Cellular and Molecular Medicine Volume 13 Issue

10 pages 4229ndash4238 October 2009 Retrieved from httponlinelibrarywileycomdoi101111j1582-

4934200800463xfull

Pizzorno J and Murray M Textbook of Natural Medicine Churchill-Livingstone 1993

Reisman J (2008) Sensory processing disorders Minnesota Medicine [2002 85(11)48-51] Retrieved from

httpeuropepmcorgabstractMED12498067

Sears B (2011)ADHD An inflammatory condition The link between ADHD and obesity Published on July

20 2011 by Barry Sears PhD in In the Zone Retrieved from httpwwwpsychologytodaycomblogin-

the-zone201107adhd-inflammatory-condition

Schettler T (2001) Toxic threats to neurologic development of children Environ Health Perspect Dec

2001 109(Suppl 6) 813ndash816 Retrieved from httpwwwncbinlmnihgovpmcarticlesPMC1240616


J Dev Behav Pediatr 2002 Feb23(1 Suppl)S13-22Retrieved from

httpwwwncbinlmnihgovpubmed11875286

Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) amp autism are general terms for a group of complex disorders of brain development

Believed to have its roots in early brain development yet there is other evidence to suggest it is caused by either

Genetics

Faulty MTHFR genes

post natal infectionsviruses

or environmental assaults

These disorders are characterized in varying degrees by

difficulties in social interaction

verbal and nonverbal communication

repetitive behaviors

With the May 2013 publication of the DSM-5 diagnostic manual all autism disorders were merged into one umbrella diagnosis of ASD

Previously they were recognized as distinct subtypes including

autistic disorder

childhood disintegrative disorder

pervasive developmental disorder-not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS)

Asperger syndrome








RISK FACTORS

























Steps to include









death



abnormal behavior



cognitive thinking

memory

attention

language

fine motor








muscle weakness



mood swings

memory loss

mental disturbances

muscle weakness


tremors


insomnia


headaches







Some vaccines








loss of hair



















flat affect







loss of speech




withdrawal

being irritated

aggressive behavior

night terrors


mood swings


multiple sclerosis

juvenile diabetes

asthma


decreased immunity








acquired thru life





Naturopathic ndash
























































any age





by









peculiar stiff gaze











Common AS sx






















Behavior Problems






Social problems




Aggressive


























































Hb A (Allergy)




Hb Z (Sleep)

Hb Q (quietcalm)


Hb T (Tired)

Hb Detoxa

Hb First Aid

Hb Marina

Hb Nutria

Hb Promyer

Hb Serena

1Organic Diet-









prevent damage


including




Pesticides

immunizations

Paints
















101093brainawf150








4934200800463xfull



















RISK FACTORS

























Steps to include









death



abnormal behavior



cognitive thinking

memory

attention

language

fine motor








muscle weakness



mood swings

memory loss

mental disturbances

muscle weakness


tremors


insomnia


headaches







Some vaccines








loss of hair



















flat affect







loss of speech




withdrawal

being irritated

aggressive behavior

night terrors


mood swings


multiple sclerosis

juvenile diabetes

asthma


decreased immunity








acquired thru life





Naturopathic ndash
























































any age





by









peculiar stiff gaze











Common AS sx






















Behavior Problems






Social problems




Aggressive


























































Hb A (Allergy)




Hb Z (Sleep)

Hb Q (quietcalm)


Hb T (Tired)

Hb Detoxa

Hb First Aid

Hb Marina

Hb Nutria

Hb Promyer

Hb Serena

1Organic Diet-









prevent damage


including




Pesticides

immunizations

Paints
















101093brainawf150








4934200800463xfull































Steps to include









death



abnormal behavior



cognitive thinking

memory

attention

language

fine motor








muscle weakness



mood swings

memory loss

mental disturbances

muscle weakness


tremors


insomnia


headaches







Some vaccines








loss of hair



















flat affect







loss of speech




withdrawal

being irritated

aggressive behavior

night terrors


mood swings


multiple sclerosis

juvenile diabetes

asthma


decreased immunity








acquired thru life





Naturopathic ndash
























































any age





by









peculiar stiff gaze











Common AS sx






















Behavior Problems






Social problems




Aggressive


























































Hb A (Allergy)




Hb Z (Sleep)

Hb Q (quietcalm)


Hb T (Tired)

Hb Detoxa

Hb First Aid

Hb Marina

Hb Nutria

Hb Promyer

Hb Serena

1Organic Diet-









prevent damage


including




Pesticides

immunizations

Paints
















101093brainawf150








4934200800463xfull


















death



abnormal behavior



cognitive thinking

memory

attention

language

fine motor








muscle weakness



mood swings

memory loss

mental disturbances

muscle weakness


tremors


insomnia


headaches







Some vaccines








loss of hair



















flat affect







loss of speech




withdrawal

being irritated

aggressive behavior

night terrors


mood swings


multiple sclerosis

juvenile diabetes

asthma


decreased immunity








acquired thru life





Naturopathic ndash
























































any age





by









peculiar stiff gaze











Common AS sx






















Behavior Problems






Social problems




Aggressive


























































Hb A (Allergy)




Hb Z (Sleep)

Hb Q (quietcalm)


Hb T (Tired)

Hb Detoxa

Hb First Aid

Hb Marina

Hb Nutria

Hb Promyer

Hb Serena

1Organic Diet-









prevent damage


including




Pesticides

immunizations

Paints
















101093brainawf150








4934200800463xfull















Some vaccines








loss of hair



















flat affect







loss of speech




withdrawal

being irritated

aggressive behavior

night terrors


mood swings


multiple sclerosis

juvenile diabetes

asthma


decreased immunity








acquired thru life





Naturopathic ndash
























































any age





by









peculiar stiff gaze











Common AS sx






















Behavior Problems






Social problems




Aggressive


























































Hb A (Allergy)




Hb Z (Sleep)

Hb Q (quietcalm)


Hb T (Tired)

Hb Detoxa

Hb First Aid

Hb Marina

Hb Nutria

Hb Promyer

Hb Serena

1Organic Diet-









prevent damage


including




Pesticides

immunizations

Paints
















101093brainawf150








4934200800463xfull















flat affect







loss of speech




withdrawal

being irritated

aggressive behavior

night terrors


mood swings


multiple sclerosis

juvenile diabetes

asthma


decreased immunity








acquired thru life





Naturopathic ndash
























































any age





by









peculiar stiff gaze











Common AS sx






















Behavior Problems






Social problems




Aggressive


























































Hb A (Allergy)




Hb Z (Sleep)

Hb Q (quietcalm)


Hb T (Tired)

Hb Detoxa

Hb First Aid

Hb Marina

Hb Nutria

Hb Promyer

Hb Serena

1Organic Diet-









prevent damage


including




Pesticides

immunizations

Paints
















101093brainawf150








4934200800463xfull
















acquired thru life





Naturopathic ndash
























































any age





by









peculiar stiff gaze











Common AS sx






















Behavior Problems






Social problems




Aggressive


























































Hb A (Allergy)




Hb Z (Sleep)

Hb Q (quietcalm)


Hb T (Tired)

Hb Detoxa

Hb First Aid

Hb Marina

Hb Nutria

Hb Promyer

Hb Serena

1Organic Diet-









prevent damage


including




Pesticides

immunizations

Paints
















101093brainawf150








4934200800463xfull






























































any age





by









peculiar stiff gaze











Common AS sx






















Behavior Problems






Social problems




Aggressive


























































Hb A (Allergy)




Hb Z (Sleep)

Hb Q (quietcalm)


Hb T (Tired)

Hb Detoxa

Hb First Aid

Hb Marina

Hb Nutria

Hb Promyer

Hb Serena

1Organic Diet-









prevent damage


including




Pesticides

immunizations

Paints
















101093brainawf150








4934200800463xfull
















by









peculiar stiff gaze











Common AS sx






















Behavior Problems






Social problems




Aggressive


























































Hb A (Allergy)




Hb Z (Sleep)

Hb Q (quietcalm)


Hb T (Tired)

Hb Detoxa

Hb First Aid

Hb Marina

Hb Nutria

Hb Promyer

Hb Serena

1Organic Diet-









prevent damage


including




Pesticides

immunizations

Paints
















101093brainawf150








4934200800463xfull





















Common AS sx






















Behavior Problems






Social problems




Aggressive


























































Hb A (Allergy)




Hb Z (Sleep)

Hb Q (quietcalm)


Hb T (Tired)

Hb Detoxa

Hb First Aid

Hb Marina

Hb Nutria

Hb Promyer

Hb Serena

1Organic Diet-









prevent damage


including




Pesticides

immunizations

Paints
















101093brainawf150








4934200800463xfull



















Behavior Problems






Social problems




Aggressive


























































Hb A (Allergy)




Hb Z (Sleep)

Hb Q (quietcalm)


Hb T (Tired)

Hb Detoxa

Hb First Aid

Hb Marina

Hb Nutria

Hb Promyer

Hb Serena

1Organic Diet-









prevent damage


including




Pesticides

immunizations

Paints
















101093brainawf150








4934200800463xfull


























































Hb A (Allergy)




Hb Z (Sleep)

Hb Q (quietcalm)


Hb T (Tired)

Hb Detoxa

Hb First Aid

Hb Marina

Hb Nutria

Hb Promyer

Hb Serena

1Organic Diet-









prevent damage


including




Pesticides

immunizations

Paints
















101093brainawf150








4934200800463xfull












1Organic Diet-









prevent damage


including




Pesticides

immunizations

Paints
















101093brainawf150








4934200800463xfull

























101093brainawf150








4934200800463xfull












Autism spectrum disorders

Health & Medicine

Transcript of Autism spectrum disorders