Neuro-Immune Dysfunction Syndrome is a classification of autoimmune disorders proposed by Dr. Michael J. Goldberg that might explain some cognitive deficiencies in some patients diagnosed with autism. Dr. Goldberg, through the Neuro Immune Dysfunction Syndromes (NIDS) Research and Treatment Institute, advocates for testing and consultation with autoimmune specialists, nutrition specialists, and occupational therapists to systematically test for heighten immune response and reduce environmental triggers that might interfere with cognitive function. He then advocates rehabilitative therapy to teach social and vocational skills that may be lacking once the reduced inflammation allows more normal cognitive function.
The NIDS Institutes openly states that it is primarily a network of parents advocating for more research into potential environmental causes of symptoms diagnosed as autism.