Important Tests For Autism
Our view is a Systems-Biology perspective. This approach views the child as a whole ecosystem, where imbalances in the gut, immune system, or genetics can manifest as neurological or behavioral symptoms.
1. Comprehensive Gut Health Panel
The "Gut-Brain Axis" is a major focus at Maive Brain. If the gut is inflamed or infected, the brain cannot function optimally.
● Parasites & H. Pylori: These "hidden" infections can cause chronic inflammation and malabsorption of nutrients. In non-verbal children, these often manifest as physical aggression or self-injury due to undiagnosed abdominal pain.
● Candida (Yeast Overgrowth): An overgrowth of yeast can produce toxic byproducts like ethanol and acetaldehyde, which can cause "brain fog," hyperactivity, and sugar cravings.
● Bacterial Imbalances (Dysbiosis): Testing identifies a lack of beneficial bacteria or an overgrowth of harmful strains (like Clostridia), which can produce neurotoxins that interfere with speech and behavior.
2. Heavy Metal Testing
Autistic children often have impaired detoxification pathways (like low glutathione).
● Why it’s done: This test checks for the accumulation of toxic metals like lead, mercury, and aluminum. These metals can disrupt neurotransmitters and mitochondrial function, contributing to cognitive delays and sensory processing issues.
3. Food Sensitivity Test (IgG)
This is different from a standard "allergy" test.
● Why it’s done: It looks for delayed immune reactions to common foods (like gluten, dairy, or soy). These sensitivities can cause "leaky gut," leading to systemic inflammation that affects focus, sleep, and irritability. Identifying "trigger foods" allows for a customized diet that lowers the child’s total inflammatory load.
4. Genetic Testing
Autism is highly heritable, but "genetics" isn't just about a diagnosis. ● Why it’s done: Beyond identifying specific syndromes, we look for SNPs (Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms) in pathways like MTHFR. This tells us how the child’s body processes B-vitamins and detoxifies, allowing us to use "Precision Nutrition" to bypass genetic "glitches."
5. FRAT® (Folate Receptor Autoantibody Test)
This is a cutting-edge specialized blood test. ● Why it’s done: Many autistic children have antibodies that block folate (Vitamin B9) from entering the brain, even if their blood levels look normal. This "Cerebral Folate Deficiency" can cause speech delays and seizures. If positive, it can often be managed with a specific form of folate called folinic acid.
6. Lyme Disease & Co-Infection Testing
Chronic, low-grade infections can mimic or worsen neurological symptoms.
● Why it’s done: Lyme and its "co-infections" (like Bartonella) are known as the "Great Imitators." They can cause intense "brain on fire" inflammation (neuroinflammation), leading to sudden behavioral regressions, OCD, or motor tics.
Why do all these tests?
At Maive Brain, we believe that “behavior is communication.” When a child struggles, these tests allow us to “listen” to what their body is saying. By clearing the biological “static”—the infections, the toxins, and the inflammation—we create a clear path for the child’s brain to learn, grow, and thrive.