Allergy Connection

MARSHALL

Marshall is a 4 year-old male who was first evaluated by me in April 1998. During his first two years of life, Marshall's developmental milestones were all normal except for no speech. In addition, there was a history of frequent, loose bowel movements. By 20 months of age, Marshall's parents noted that MSG was a cause of chronic diarrhea. By age two, Marshall's parents were concerned with his lack of speech. Specifically, there were initially a few "inconsistent" words, then no expressive speech and increased "squealing." At age two there was a steady decline in behavior with increased squealing, temper tantrums, hyperactivity, erratic sleep, and decreased participation in school activities. A comprehensive lab evaluation at that time including hearing evaluation, MRI, and chromosomal testing were all normal.

When seen in my office initially, Marshall had an allergic history of perennial nasal stuffiness that was increased during pollen seasons, dark circles under the eyes (since infancy), and mild asthma. In addition, there was a history of a sleep disorder, aggressive behavior, sensitivity to loud sounds, and decreased attention span. Physical examination revealed significant allergic shiners and an allergic appearance to the nasal membranes. Allergy testing to the foods in the diet was carried out and Marshall was started on sublingual immunotherapy.

One month later on food immunotherapy, Marshall's parents noted that his attention span and behavior had markedly improved. The "squealing" was almost resolved. Urine organic acids were completed in May 1998 showing a yeast overgrowth and an elevated arabinose level of 3,267 (normal is 0-115). At that time, Marshall was started on the Feingold diet and supplementation included Acidophilus and Super Nuthera (contains B6, magnesium and vitamin C).

In June 1998, Marshall was started on Nystatin but for the next two weeks became more hostile. (This was probably a die-off reaction to Nystatin). His diet included a decrease in wheat and sugar and further supplementations were added to his program.

By July 1998 Marshall was started on a casein and gluten-free diet and digestive enzymes. In August 1998 Marshall returned to the office and completed his allergy testing for inhalants and molds and was started on appropriate immunotherapy. He also was seen at the University of MD for an endoscopy for chronic diarrhea. He received his first IV Secretin.

Prior to the Secretin infusion, Marshall's nasal and respiratory allergies were well-controlled, his attention span and aggressiveness were all markedly improved, and there was no ritualistic behavior. However, the severe speech delay showed no change whatsoever.

Two days after receiving the Secretin, Marshall counted family members, "1,2,3"; 2-1/2 weeks after Secretin, he was saying 10-15 words, 4 short phrases, counting to 5, was interested in potty training, bowel movements became normal for the first time in his life, sleeping improved, and there was increased socialization and participation in school.

Repeat organic acid test showed the arabinose dropped to 153 which had been over 3,000 in May 1998.

A second Secretin infusion approximately three weeks after the first infusion resulted in continued improvement in speech and behavior and the ability to count to 10.

By September 1998, Marshall's parents thought that at age 4-1/2 he was functioning as a 2 year-old and just entering "the terrible two's." The parents attributed the allergy immunotherapy and dietary changes as the primary reasons for improved behavior with a marked decrease in hyperactivity and squealing. The remarkable improvement in speech was attributed to the use of IV Secretin.

Marshall's medical history represents a good explanation of an approach that should be used for many children who have been diagnosed with Autism or another developmental delay label. Specifically, the importance of controlling the allergies and hypersensitivities, strong consideration for implementing a casein and/or gluten-free diet, using digestive enzymes, a supplementation program to address leaky gut (Dysbiosis), and IV Secretin.

I must give the most credit to Marshall's parents who were primarily responsible for the incredible observations they have made over the past four years and their knowledge base of his medical history that enabled me to function as their co-captain in figuring out what to do medically. The combination of the allergy program, consulting with an excellent nutritionist and the availability of IV Secretin together resulted in excellent progress in this child's behavior and development in less than six months time.

Richard E. Layton, M.D.
Specialized Pediatrics, Allergy and Integrated Medicine
901 Dulaney Valley Road * Dulaney Center II, Suite 602 * Towson, MD 21204
Telephone: 1-888-337-2707 (In Maryland, call 410-337-2707)
http://www.allergyconnection.com * e-mail: info@allergyconnection.com
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©Copyright 1998 Richard E. Layton, M.D.