Reduction in Obsessive Compulsive Disorder and Self-Injurious Behavior With Saccharomyces boulardii in a Child with Autism: A Case Report.

Abstract

This case report describes the effective use of Saccharomyces boulardii in a boy with autism spectrum disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), and self-injurious behavior (SIB). Gastrointestinal dysfunction and OCD are frequent comorbidities in autism, which may share a common etiology resulting from a disturbance in normal gut microbiota. Alterations in microbial diversity influence neuroinflammation and are linked to mood disorders, abdominal pain, and SIB. S boulardii is a nonpathogenic probiotic yeast that supports a healthy microbiome, enhances immune function, and reduces diarrhea. Treatment with S boulardii successfully reduced OCD and SIB symptoms in this child.