Cerebral Folate Deficiency

CFD is being found in many children with autism.  This is defined by having low levels of folate (5-HTMF) in the spinal fluid while having normal levels in the blood.  The onset of symptoms typically begin during the first year of life and include delayed development and growth.  Low levels of folate in the cerebral spinal fluid (CSF) are due to decreased ability to penetrate the blood brain barrier.  It is believed that this occurs when folate receptor antibodies, produced by an autoimmune reaction, interfere with folate transport into the central nervous system.  Improvement in Autism symptoms has been seen with the supplementation of Leucovorin (folinic acid).   In addition, a dairy free diet, in studies, has been shown to decrease the productions of folate receptor antibodies. More information on CFD can be found here.