By Dr. Sherry Xi

October 6th, a 9-year-old boy named Santiago from Argentina came back for the second course of stem cell treatment. His symptoms started six years ago, and he was diagnosed with NCL2 (Batten disease). His symptoms included hyperactivity, distractibility, ataxia, loss of speech, seizures, poor back strength, difficulty walking, and required help under the arms while walking.

One year ago in October, his mother brought him to us for medical treatment. After treatment he could walk by himself about 2 meters. During walking his back was straight, with no convulsions. He could say 5 to 6 phrases. His drooling was less than before, his facial expressions were better, and he had better vision than before.

This time he came, we found that the strength of his back worse than originally. He could still walk, but bent over with someone helping him under the arms. His speech was less than last time. He could only say "No" and "water", but he had no convulsions or seizures. His salivation and hyperactivity were not obvious, and his vision has changed a little.

Survey shows that most of the NCL2 patients will be bedridden within three and one half years. The one year after our treatment the patient's condition has noticeably slower progression, indicating that stem cell therapy does delay the progression of batten disease, to provide time for further treatment. The current treatment we give him will continue to delay the progression of the disease and to increase his strength. We will continue to do our best to improve his condition.