There are many aspects to mesenchymal stromal cell (MSC) therapy, and the process is not as simple as signing up for the therapy, paying the fees and waiting for the treatment. For MSC therapy to be effective, every patient must undergo a pre-treatment evaluation.
In this article, we’ll discuss the treatment needs for people with MS, the benefits of MSC therapy for MS and why pretreatment evaluation for MSC treatment is so crucial.
Overview of Multiple Sclerosis and Treatment Needs
Multiple sclerosis is an autoimmune disorder where the immune system recognizes the body as a foreign substance and attacks itself. The disease affects the protective layer around neurons in the spinal cord and brain, known as the myelin sheath. MS causes inflammation and damage to the nerve cells.
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As this disease affects the central nervous system, common symptoms include fatigue, weakness, problems with balance or vision, and dizziness. MS can be a debilitating disorder as it severely limits a person’s ability to perform everyday tasks.
Conventional treatment is focused on occupational therapy, speech therapy and nutritional support to help people with MS cope with symptoms. However, since the disease affects the central nervous system, stem cell therapy for MS is a promising treatment as it repairs nerve cells and reduces inflammation.
Role and Potential of Mesenchymal Stromal Cell (MSC) Therapy
The immunomodulating and anti-inflammatory properties of MSC exosomes can reduce nerve tissue damage, which is very beneficial for MS. For this reason, many treatment centers, such as Swiss Medica, use exosome therapy.
MSC therapy also plays a crucial role in treating MS due to its effect on the myelin sheath. In patients with MS, the immune system attacks the myelin sheath. MSC therapy restores the myelin sheath, making it a great treatment option. MSCs also have immunomodulating and neuroprotective properties, which help treat MS.
The Importance of Comprehensive Pre-treatment Evaluation
Comprehensive pretreatment evaluation helps patients receive the proper type of stem cell therapy, ensuring treatment is as safe and as effective as possible. Pre-treatment evaluation can help doctors identify contraindications and create a treatment plan that suits the patient’s age, health condition and other factors.
Diagnostic Tests and Assessments
There are a few crucial tests and assessments patients should undergo before receiving MSC therapy for multiple sclerosis.
- Blood tests
Blood tests help determine the patient’s blood type, assess immune function and identify any underlying conditions.
- Functional assessments
Functional assessments allow doctors to test the physical capabilities of MS patients. For example, doctors can test the strength and flexibility of patients.
- Imaging scans
CAT scans or MRIs can be used to better understand the severity of the disease.
Evaluating Patient Suitability for MSC Therapy
When evaluating patient suitability for MSC therapy, doctors must consider what the test results say about the health of the patient. Doctors should also look at past medical records, family health, history and any medications the patient is currently taking.
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- Multiple sclerosis progression
- Patient’s age
- Duration of illness
- Level of disability
- Comorbidities
Planning and Preparing for MSC Therapy
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Patients must also maintain a healthy diet that will maintain the MS in a better manner. A balanced intake of essential nutrients and an anti-inflammatory diet further contribute to major factors that prepare the body for MSC therapy.
Psychologically, the patient has to be ready to come forward to the treatment provider in case of any queries and apprehensions in their mind. They can feel reassured and confident about the process which can reduce stress.
In conclusion
Multiple sclerosis is a debilitating disease and without proper treatment, MS patients can see their quality of life continuously decline. Fortunately, MSC therapy can restore the myelin sheath and modulate the immune system, helping to halt multiple sclerosis progression.
MSC therapy can be incredibly effective for MS, but it’s also important that patients who undergo the therapy undergo a thorough pretreatment evaluation. An evaluation can help doctors determine the best treatment methods and make the treatment as safe as possible.
