Hypoxic-Ischemic Encephalopathy – What Is This Disease?
Hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) is a complex syndrome of neurological disorders that results in the loss of motor and cognitive functions. It is sometimes accompanied by other neurological problems.
Many cases of encephalopathy originate from hypoxia, which often occurs during the perinatal period. The symptoms of hypoxia may not always be immediately apparent after birth, sometimes appearing weeks or even months later.
An unambiguous diagnosis of the effects of hypoxia is challenging, but the consequences can be very serious, including:
- Encephalopathy
- Cerebral palsy
- Hearing and vision impairments
- Mental retardation
What Does Tadzio’s Story Look Like?
Tadzio’s pregnancy was without complications, but during a 24-hour labor, issues arose. It is likely that the prolonged labor resulted in perinatal hypoxia, leading to the development of encephalopathy in the boy.
As an infant, Tadzio exhibited reduced muscle tone and showed no signs of typical physical development, such as lifting his head, turning over, or following objects with his eyes. This caused great concern for his parents.
Around six months later, Tadzio was diagnosed with hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy affecting the left hemisphere of his brain.
Tadeusz’s mother, Mrs. Magda, learned about stem cell therapy from her son’s therapist, who had witnessed the positive effects of the therapy in other patients. Mrs. Magda began researching cell therapy and discovered a clinic in Lublin that provided this treatment. After a thorough examination, Tadeusz was qualified for stem cell therapy.
Effects of Stem Cell Therapy
After Tadeusz received his first stem cell therapy in June 2020, his motor and cognitive abilities showed significant improvement. The boy began reaching for objects on his own, something he was previously unable to do. His speech, which had been virtually non-existent, also improved significantly.
The therapy also positively impacted Tadeusz’s motor development. He began to bend his knees, put one foot in front of the other, and even attempted to jump and run with bent legs.
“In Tadzio’s case, the effects of the therapy included improved cognitive functions, better communication, and enhanced motor skills. These improvements, including better contact with the environment and his therapist, significantly supported his rehabilitation, leading to an overall improvement in his functioning,” explains Dr. Magdalena Chrościńska-Krawczyk, who conducted the stem cell therapy for Tadeusz.
Currently, Tadeusz is a child with moderate disabilities, a condition that, according to his mother, Ms. Magda, has improved due to the stem cell therapy.