Stem cell could lead to complications, death

MANILA -- The Philippine Society for Stem Cell Medicine (PSSCM) has admitted that stem cell carries risks of complications and even death.

According to PSSCM Spokesman Dr. Leo Olarte, while stem cell treatment could be beneficial to some, it could not be established as its general result since it may also lead to negative effects.

“Although some people experience few problems with a transplant, others may develop complications that may require treatment or hospitalization. Some complications could even be life-threatening,” Olarte said in a statement released by the Philippine Medical Association (PMA).

Among them are stem cell (graft) failure, organ injury, infections, cataracts, infertility, new cancers, the graft-versus-host disease, and death, Olarte added.

Olarte said complications may be results from factors such as the type of blood disorder, the type of transplant, and the age and health of the person.

The vice president of the PMA explained that the graft-versus-host disease is a condition that occurs when a donor’s transplanted stem cells attack the recipient’s body.

“Graft-versus-host disease can be mild or severe. It can occur soon after your transplant or months to years later,” Olarte said.

He said there is a need for those who underwent stem cell treatment to be closely monitored by their doctors for signs and symptoms of complications.

Olarte’s statement comes amid the continued proliferation of “centers” offering stem cell treatments for medical and aesthetic purposes.

Stem cell therapy is a type of intervention strategy that introduces new adult stem cells into damaged tissue in order to treat disease or injury. (HDT)