Can Stem Cell Therapy Cure Autism?

What Is Autism?

Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) are neurodevelopmental disorders because of their multifactorial nature. Autism is the most prevalent ASD. According to Statista –The Statistic portal, the U.S. was estimated to have the highest rate of autism with approximately 168 children per 10,000 with the disorder. Autism is characterized by two core symptoms: The first one is marked abnormalities in social interaction, impaired verbal and nonverbal communication, and second situation is repetitive, obsessive behavior. Apart from core symptoms, autism is also triggered by associated symptoms such as irritability, anxiety, aggression, compulsions, mood lability, gastrointestinal issues, depression, and sleep disorders. Two common consistent findings are associated in children with this disorder are diminished oxygenation in specific areas of the brain and a chronic immunologically mediated inflammatory condition in the gut.

Autism treatment requires Variable and multimodal approach although no clear golden standard approach exists. Conventional treatment strategies use behavioral, nutritional and medical approaches. Unfortunately, none of these approaches address the root causes of oxygen deprivation and intestinal inflammation.

Can Stem Cell Therapies Cure Autism?

Stem cell therapy has shown great potential for treating ASDs. Fetal stem cells, Mesenchymal stem cells, neural stem cells, umbilical cord and amniotic fluid-derived stem cells and Induced pluripotent stem cells can be used for treatment of autism. The combination of CD34+ and mesenchymal stem cells has shown to induce synergistic effects in neurological disorders. Various medical reports suggests that after stem cell therapy patients have shown  improvements in eye coordination, writing, balancing, cognition, and speech and showed reduced hypersensitivity to noises and smells. The redesign of brain architecture, generated from reprogrammed somatic cells isolated from living patients, reverses or ameliorates the symptoms of disorder.

Stem cell therapy can cure autism with success rate of 90%-92% is considered as one of the most powerful treatment method for autism. In conclusion stem cell therapy may be safe and effective treatment for autism patients.

How Much does Stem Cell Therapy Cost For Autism?

As Autism treatment requires Variable and multimodal approach the cost of therapy depends upon various medical factors like the type of stem cell treatment, number of cells, type of stem cell, hospital stay etc. The average cost in European countries cost approx. $45,000- $50,000. American clinics charge approximately $15,000 – $35,000. According to a Twitter poll by BioInformant, the cost can be even higher. However, in India the average cost of stem cell therapy can range from $6,000- $8,000. Stem cell therapy in India is significantly economical and hence many patients from all over the world now prefer India for getting stem cell treatment. However, Final cost for treatment depends upon patients severity, hospitalization facility availed, number of stem cells, type of stem cell etc. Countries whose regulatory policies allow stem cell expansion include Mexico, the Caymen Islands, the Bahama Islands, and India, and others.

How Many Days Hospitalization Required?

For stem cell treatment minimum 5 days hospitalization is needed which involves involves a physical examination and blood testing on Day 1, followed by intravenous infusions of Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) on Days 2-5. Stem cell transplant is one time procedure.

Is Stem Cell Treatment To Cure Autism?

As with any other medical process, stem cell autism recovery does have some side effects associated with it. It is observed that some patients may reject allergenic (donated) stem cells, targeting them as invaders. Some people have reactions to the injectable fluids. However, many people find the success levels high enough to warrant risking these negative outcomes.