rTMS in Autism: Approach, Evidence and Limits
We are happy to have magnetic stimulation as therapeutic tool –
CE approved for autism-spectrum-disorders in adults
TPS (Off-label) may improve up to 30% of the symptoms – Combination with TMS possible
Stem cell therapy recommended? ⇒ Read a related scientific article
Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs)
Why are they interesting for autism?
- Have immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory properties
- Can modulate neuroinflammatory processes in the brain – neuronal inflammation (microglia activation, cytokine imbalance) is suspected in autism
- Release of neurotrophic factors (e.g. BDNF) that could support neuronal maturation and synapse formation
Sources:
- Umbilical cord tissue (Wharton’s jelly)
- Bone marrow
- Adipose tissue
Current status:
- Several Phase I and Phase II studies are ongoing or have been conducted
- Results to date: partial improvements in behaviour, social interaction and language (e.g. Duke University studies)
- Effect presumably through paracrine effects, not through integration into the brain
We have seen tremendous success by combining TMS and TPS ⇒ Check with this recent study
- Effects of transcranial pulse stimulation on autism spectrum disorder: a double-blind, randomized, sham-controlled trial
- Oxytocin improves animal behaviors and ameliorates oxidative stress and inflammation in autistic mice
- Effects of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation on children with low-function autism
- rTMS neuromodulation improves electrocortical functional measures of information processing and behavioral responses in autism
- Non-invasive brain stimulation for children with autism spectrum disorders: a short term outcome study
- Assessing and stabilizing aberrant neuroplasticity in autism spectrum disorde: the potential role of transcranial magnetic stimulation
- Transcranial magnetic stimulation in autism spectrum disorder: Challenges, promise, and roadmap for future research
- Effects of weekly low-frequency rTMS on autonomic measures in children with autism spectrum disorders
Is rTMS an option for you?
That cannot be answered in general terms. It depends on your symptom profile, how things have developed and what you have already tried. We go through exactly that in the free phone consultation – and we will also tell you when a course of rTMS is not the right next step for you.
Treatment takes place at our main practice in Zurich or at a partner practice of the Neuro-Spa Group: in Germany, among others in Munich and Schwäbisch Hall, with further practices internationally. If you would rather go to a partner practice, please contact it directly – all addresses and phone numbers are listed in the location overview.