Medically Reviewed By: Dr. David Warmflash (MD)
Stem Cells for Cerebral Palsy in Mexico
Cerebral Palsy is a collective term for the degeneration of brain cells due to any perinatal (time near birth) brain injury. Factors like uterus infection, premature birth, a genetic defect, or lack of oxygen at the time of delivery can cause the death of oligodendrocytes and neurons, leading to cerebral palsy.
Stem cell therapy is being offered in Mexico based on the idea that it can help in neuronal regeneration, benefiting the patients.
Signs & Symptoms of Cerebral Palsy
- Seizures
- Unusual crawling
- Limited movements
- Lying down in awkward positions
- Ataxia or poor coordination and balance
- Preferring one side of the body over other
- Underdeveloped or overly developed muscles which can lead to hypotonia (floppy movement) or stiff movements.
Why are Stem Cells used for Cerebral Palsy?
Stem Cells Applications
Stem Cells have regenerative properties which can function as the resident cells and replace the damaged or injured cells. It restores the lost function of the tissue or organ. Using this division and differentiation property of the stem cells are used to treat patients with Cerebral Palsy.
The pluripotent embryonic cells used for the treatment can be either administered locally or infused intravenously.
A study[1] published in May 2016 published data for 17 cases of Cerebral Palsy treated with Stem Cells. It showed that the average improvement was 1.3 level on the GMFCS with cognitive improvements scale.
New Treatment For Children With Cerebral Palsy Uses Stem Cells
In another study[2], Autologous Cord Blood Infusion was done in 63 cerebral palsy patients. The results suggest the dose improved the brain connectivity and gross motor function in patients.
More recently, a meta-analysis encompassing 9 studies was published, suggesting that stem cell therapy significantly increased Gross Motor Function Measure (GMFM) scores of 3, 6, and 12 months. Improvement of GMFM score was notable, particularly with the use of umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells, low dosage, and intrathecal (IT) injection, meaning that the treatment is infused into the fluid that surrounds the spinal cord and brain. Patients interested in this potential treatment option should be aware that the IT route of delivery means that the treatment should not be considered to be non-invasive.[3]) between the stem cell group and the control group." url="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9794999/"]
Dr. David Warmflash
References
- International Journal of Stem Cells: Treatment of Cerebral Palsy with Stem Cells: A Report of 17 Cases
- Stem Cell Journals: Effect of Autologous Cord Blood Infusion on Motor Function and Brain Connectivity in Young Children with Cerebral Palsy: A Randomized, Placebo‐Controlled Trial
- Medical News Today: What's to know about cerebral palsy?
- NCBI: Efficacy and safety of stem cell therapy in cerebral palsy: A systematic review and meta-analysis