How stem cell therapy may help with autism
Autism spectrum disorder shapes how a child communicates, relates to others and processes the world around them. Its causes are still being studied. Speech, occupational and behavioural therapy remain the foundation of care, and they work. Some research also points to inflammation and immune activity in a subset of children, which is where stem cell treatment is being studied.
- Mesenchymal stem cells are studied for their effect on inflammation and immune overactivity.
- They release signalling factors that influence the environment around nerve cells.
- Treatment is delivered intravenously, so the cells reach the body through the circulation.
- Cells are prepared in our own laboratory and used fresh, never frozen.
- The protocol is written for your child, their records and your family’s goals, and it is explained to you in full before any decision.
Concerns to discuss with your care team
Communication
Limited speech, or words that are there but hard to reach when they are needed.
Social connection
Eye contact that is rare, play that stays solitary, and a world that is hard to join.
Behaviour and focus
Repetitive movements, sudden distress, and attention that will not settle.
Sleep, digestion and the senses
Restless nights, an upset stomach, and lights, sounds or textures that are too much.
Who may be a candidate
Children with a confirmed diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder from a qualified physician, who continue to face significant challenges despite consistent therapy, and who are medically stable for travel and intravenous treatment, may be evaluated. Candidacy is decided by our physicians after a review of the diagnosis, records and treatment history, and a conversation with the parents or guardians, never by a form.
Treatment is not offered without a confirmed diagnosis, where a child is not medically stable, or where there is active infection or another condition identified in review. Where we do not believe treatment is appropriate for your child, we will say so, plainly and early.
What to expect
1. Evaluation
A call with a patient advisor, then a medical review of your child’s diagnosis, records and treatment history, with both parents or guardians involved.
2. Treatment plan
Protocol, schedule and the full investment, written for your child’s case and discussed with you before anyone travels.
3. Treatment in San José
Travel and stay arranged for your family. Treatment by our physicians in our Ministry of Health–licensed clinic, with a parent present throughout.
4. Follow-up care
Scheduled check-ins with our team after you return home, and a report for your child’s own physicians and therapists.
Investment
Each plan is built for one patient. In your consultation we walk through the full investment and exactly what it includes: cells, clinical care, and the arrangements around your stay.
The Cellebration approach
- Fresh, never frozen. Ask how cells are prepared and evaluated for your proposed care.
- Physician-led. Clinical decisions by our medical team, in a licensed clinic.
- An informed discussion. Review the evidence, limitations and alternatives relevant to your condition.
- Personalized support. A care team helps coordinate the treatment journey.