Intestinal Inflammation and Carbohydrate Digestion in Autistic Children

The Evaluation of Intestinal Inflammation and Carbohydrate Digestion in Children With Autistic Spectrum Disorders

The purpose of the study is to find correlations between non-invasive fecal tests of intestinal inflammation and macro- and microscopic evaluation of duodenal and colonic histology, disaccharidase activity, and intestinal permeability in children with autism.

Gastrointestinal disorders in children with autism receive little attention. However, symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, constipation, and flatulence have been considered contributing to the behavioral problems. These symptoms are associated partially with the deficiency of enzymes digesting carbohydrates and inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract. The effect of intestinal inflammation on neurological disorders experienced by autistic children remains unclear. We will study this problem using recently developed non-invasive tests based on two proteins (calprotectin and lactoferrin) analysis in children's stool. Activity of enzymes needed for carbohydrate digestion will be tested in small samples of intestinal tissue. Intestinal permeability will be assessed by measuring urinary excretion of carbohydrate substances (lactulose and rhamnose) administered via the endoscope. This test will help to determine if intestinal inflammation contributes to a "leaky" gut syndrome. The study will provide valuable information for understanding the association between gastrointestinal disease and behavioral problems in autistic children.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Age 18 months to 17 years inclusive.
• Subjects referred to a Massachusetts General Hospital for Children (MGH Main Campus or satellite clinic) for pediatric care or pediatric gastroenterology care.
• Subjects with documented gastrointestinal symptoms requiring endoscopy and duodenal pinch biopsy for disaccharidase activity evaluation for the standard medical treatment of gastrointestinal symptoms (i.e. endoscopy and biopsy cannot be performed solely for research purposes).

Exclusion Criteria

• Use of any proteolytic digestive enzyme supplements: prescription or over-the-counter (e.g., Pancrease [Creon-10], Lactase, etc.) up to 7 days prior to EGD with biopsy.
• Diagnosed bleeding disorder
• Hypoalbuminemia
• Unstable respiratory status evidenced by a diagnosed respiratory condition (such as asthma) that is not adequately controlled (e.g. evidence of repeated hospitalizations for exacerbations in asthma symptoms, etc.).
• Unstable cardiac status evidenced by a diagnosed cardiac condition.
• Nasal or menstrual bleeding. Additional blood in stool may effect calprotectin and lactoferrin concentration.