Journal of Gastroenterology Hepatology and Digestive Disorders
ISSN: 2578-5494 | DOI: 10.64030/2578-5494
Margaret Ordonez Smith
Objectives It is estimated that 1.0% of the global population suffers from Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), its pathogenesis remains unclear. According to the World Health Organization, approximately 1/160 children is affected with a notable increase over the past 50 years. Our aim is to emphasize the importance in knowing the etiologies of the microbiota, focusing on the presence of bacteria, fungi, and/or parasites, as several studies have shown.
Methods Different etiologies were investigated in feces; parasites, fungi, and bacteria such as Yersinia, Klebsiella, Morganella, Salmonella, Proteus, Pseudomonas, Shigella, and Serratia. The samples were processed within one to two hours after collection. Feces were cultured on MacConkey agar, EMB (Eosin Methylene Blue) agar, CLED (Cystine-Lactose-Electrolyte Deficient) medium with Andrade Indicator and selective media for Campylobacter. Fungal cultures were grown on Sabouraud Dextrose Agar or Potato Dextrose Agar. All cultures were incubated at 22°C for fungi and 37°C for bacteria.
Results A total of 143 cases were analyzed, with 19% female and 81% male participants, between the ages of 2 and 11. The most frequent parasites identified were: 51.9% Entamoeba histolytica, 30.7% Strongyloides stercoralis, and 23.2% Ascaris lumbricoides. Fungi identified, included 62.4% Candida. The most prevalent bacterial species were: 65.1% Campylobacter jejuni, 28.4% Escherichia coli and 19.2% Yersinia enterocolitica, among others.
Conclusions This study highlights the importance of early detection of dysbiosis in ASD. Our study showed multiple etiologies and supports an association between the dysbiosis and their symptoms and behavior. In a follow-up survey conducted with parents after treatment, 89% reported significant improvements.