Multiple Sclerosis

Stem cell treatment for multiple sclerosis is performed through a procedure known as autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). In this treatment, hematopoietic stem cells are collected from the patient’s own body before they undergo intensive chemotherapy to destroy the existing immune system. Subsequently, the collected stem cells are reinfused into the patient.

The purpose of this treatment is to “reset” the immune system. Multiple sclerosis is believed to be an autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks the myelin, a substance that covers nerve fibers in the central nervous system. By destroying and reconstituting the immune system, it is hoped that autoimmune activity will be reduced, and further damage to the myelin will be prevented.

While autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation has shown promising results in some multiple sclerosis patients, it is a highly specialized procedure with significant risks and is not without serious side effects. Additionally, its use is limited to cases of aggressive multiple sclerosis that do not respond to other treatments.

In summary, stem cell treatment for multiple sclerosis is applied through autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, with the goal of resetting the immune system and reducing autoimmune activity that causes damage to myelin in the central nervous system.