Retrospective analysis of 60 Autism Spectrum Disorder cases

Abstract

SummaryAutism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder with challenges in social communication and repetitive/restricted sensory-motor behaviours and early intervention during the critical brain development phase can significantly manage this condition. This retrospective analysis was conducted to understand the impact of homoeopathy on specific developmental domains in the treatment of ASD and to determine what areas it may benefit when used alongside other supportive therapies, to improve the long-term outcomes of the affected children. Methods The records of 60 cases diagnosed with ASD and treated with homoeopathic medicines, along with supportive therapies, that showed clinically significant improvement, were taken for analysis. Documented follow-ups for a period of 3–4 years of these cases were observed and analysed. The Indian Scale for Assessment of Autism has been used to score and analyse the progress of the children. Results The cases were divided according to age into 3 categories – 2 to 5 years, 6 to 9 years and 10 to 12 years for analysis. Significant improvement in the 2–5 years age group was seen in all developmental domains but the highest in speech-language & communication, the 6–9 years group in cognitive component, 10–12 years group in behaviour, which was also supported statistically by a significant p value (<0.05). Conclusion The analysis evaluated the impact of homeopathy on ASD, showing benefits in speech, language, and cognitive development, particularly in younger children, holding promise for homoeopathy in early intervention for long-term developmental outcomes.