Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects social communication, behavior, and sensory processing. Some autistic individuals also experience attention difficulties, learning disabilities, anxiety, repetitive behaviors, and emotional regulation challenges. Researchers have investigated whether certain infections and immune system responses may contribute to neurological and behavioral symptoms in some individuals. Bartonella bacteria and Borrelia burgdorferi, the bacterium responsible for Lyme disease, have been studied for their potential neurological effects. However, there is currently insufficient evidence that these infections cause autism or that treating them improves core autistic characteristics.
In a 2023 case report published in Frontiers in Psychiatry, researchers described a teenage boy diagnosed with autism, ADHD, learning disabilities, and pediatric acute-onset neuropsychiatric syndrome (PANS). He experienced severe learning difficulties, poor concentration, anger, defiant behavior, repetitive movements, and social challenges. Doctors suspected underlying Bartonella and Borrelia infections and administered several antimicrobial medications, including disulfiram, rifampin, minocycline, rifabutin, clarithromycin, and methylene blue over an extended period. During treatment, his concentration, behavior, social interactions, and academic performance improved substantially. His IQ score increased from 89 to 95 between 2018 and 2021, while his English standardized test performance improved from the 19th to the 46th percentile. He eventually moved from special education to regular classes and gained acceptance to a four-year university
