Individualized Homeopathic Treatment of Global Developmental Delay with Sensory Processing Disorder: A Case Report

Abstract Global developmental delay (GDD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder involving significant delays in two or more developmental domains. It often coexists with behavioral disturbances and sensory processing issues, necessitating multidisciplinary care. Evidence for homeopathy in GDD is limited, particularly when sensory processing disorder (SPD) is present. A 4-year-old male child with mild GDD comorbid with SPD, speech delay, hyperactivity, aggression, and compulsive behaviors (urine drinking, spitting, mouthing objects) was treated with individualized homeopathy. Antenatal history revealed significant maternal emotional trauma and depression during pregnancy. Based on the totality of symptoms, including maternal stress, Lycopodium clavatum 200C was prescribed as a single dose, followed by placebo, and repeated once after a febrile exacerbation. Over 12 months, marked improvement was observed in speech (from single words to age-appropriate fluency), comprehension, attention span, toileting habits, and social interaction. Compulsive and aggressive behaviors resolved. The social quotient improved from 54 (mild delay) to 84 (within borderline range), and the developmental quotient from 62 at baseline to 89 after 12 months. Minimal and irregular therapy sessions were received during this period. Causality assessment was done using the Modified Naranjo Criteria for Homeopathy (MONARCH), which yielded a score of +8 out of a maximum possible +13. Although improvement was observed during the course of treatment, a direct causal relationship between the intervention and the observed improvement cannot be definitively established. This case suggests possible benefit of individualized homeopathy in managing GDD with coexisting SPD, highlighting the importance of considering antenatal maternal stress in remedy selection. Further controlled studies are needed to validate these findings.