Autologous progenitor cell implantation as a novel therapeutic intervention for ischaemic digits in systemic sclerosis

Abstract

This first open-label pilot study demonstrates the feasibility and short-term safety of local CD34(+) cell therapy for SSc ischaemic complications.

Endovascular Revascularization in Secondary Raynaud’s Phenomenon

“…Surgical therapy includes arterial bypass, digital arterial reconstruction, sympathectomy (peripheral and digital) and amputation [12][13][14][15]. Recently botulinum toxin injection and local or intramuscular injection of mesenchymal stem cell have been used in the management of patients with digital ischemia due to secondary RP [16][17][18]. An endovascular procedure, as we present in our case, has not been reported previously in the management of RP.…”

Treatment of systemic sclerosis: potential role for stem cell transplantation

“…The therapeutic efficacy was associated with restoration of endothelial function, augmentation of microcirculatory blood flow, and significant increase in angiogenesis. 58 A single-institution pilot study reported a significant and rapid decrease of the extent of pulmonary fibrosis associated with SSc observed on HRCT in 9 patients with severe diffuse SSc 6 months after autologous HSCT. The early treatment effects of HSCT on the extent of pulmonary fibrosis decreased over time and were transient in some patients after long-term follow up.…”

Mesenchymal Stem Cells: Innovative Therapeutic Intervention for Autoimmune Rheumatic Diseases

“…More recently, in a phase I study, the safety of autologous MSCs-AT was demonstrated in patients with severe lower-limb ischemia without the possibility of revascularization, exhibiting an increase in transcutaneous oxygen pressure and leg ulcer cicatrization [49]. Local injections of autologous MSCs of peripheral blood and BM have been utilized, reporting an improvement in the Raynaud phenomenon and of digital-ulcer and lower-limb cicatrization [50]. Autologous MSCs-AT have been employed in local injection of areas localized of the face, with a reduction of skin thickness [51] and in that of the fingers, with important improvement of the disability, of the edema and of the Raynaud phenomenon [52].…”