Overview of regenerative therapy for "refractory atopic dermatitis"
There is a potential for effects similar to fundamental cause treatment rather than symptomatic treatment. Regarding the treatment method, we will collect adipose tissue from patients who can undergo the treatment. From there, adipose-derived stem cells will be isolated and cultured to expand their numbers. Subsequently, the cultured adipose-derived stem cells will be administered to the body via intravenous infusion. The adipose-derived stem cells administered into the body exert various effects, such as repairing damaged cells and suppressing inflammation, aiming to improve the diminished biological functions.
In the case of atopic dermatitis, it is expected that immune abnormalities will be improved, the skin condition will be enhanced, the barrier function will be repaired, and itching will be significantly alleviated. Numerous research institutions and treatment facilities have reported that stem cell therapy does not have severe side effects. However, it cannot be completely ruled out that unexpected side effects may occur. Our clinic has established a management system in accordance with guidelines for diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.
Regenerative therapy for refractory atopic dermatitis
Regenerative therapy for refractory atopic dermatitis aims to provide fundamental treatment by administering expanded autologous adipose-derived stem cells intravenously. This advanced regenerative medicine aims to relieve the distressing itchiness and discomfort caused by atopic dermatitis and provide liberation from the condition.
Relief from itching
It has been demonstrated that adipose-derived stem cells administered intravenously exert an effect on the immune system, suppressing the production of various cytokines that induce skin inflammation and itching.
Relief from dermatitis
There is a regenerative effect that repairs and restores the damaged barrier structure of the skin, which has been attacked by the immune system, leading to the improvement of atopic dermatitis and the restoration of normal skin.
Process of regenerative therapy
We will listen to the patient's wishes and explain the purpose of regenerative medicine, treatment details, safety considerations, and other relevant information. Additionally, we will examine the patient's condition.
After obtaining consent from the patient, we will conduct tests to determine the presence or absence of specific viruses or bacteria related to infectious diseases. Based on the results, patients without any issues will proceed with the treatment.
We will perform fat harvesting in a clean and well-maintained procedure room. The harvesting method involves using a biopsy needle to extract subcutaneous fat. Local anesthesia will be applied, so you will likely feel minimal pain during the procedure. (The procedure typically takes about 20 minutes.)
- Side effects of fat tissue harvesting After the fat tissue is harvested, there may be side effects such as swelling and bleeding at the incision site, internal bleeding in the harvested area, hyperpigmentation following internal bleeding, wound infection, and pain. If you experience any of these symptoms, our medical staff will address them appropriately.
The harvested fat is subjected to aseptic processing. Through enzymatic treatment, adipose-derived stem cells are separated from the fat and cultured in a culture vessel for approximately 2-3 weeks. It is important to note that no animal-derived components are used during the culturing process. Afterward, a certain quantity of cells is collected, and tests such as cell count and viability assessment, as well as quality examinations, are conducted. Once the confirmation of these results is completed, the cells are sent to the clinic for therapeutic use.
Stem cells are administered via intravenous drip over approximately one hour. In the case of multiple administrations, the cultured stem cells are frozen and stored in a cell processing facility. The standard protocol involves administering the cells every three months. Therefore, for subsequent administrations, there is no need for additional fat harvesting.
After administering the cultured stem cells, regular check-ups are conducted to monitor any changes in the patient's condition. Based on the results, adjustments are made to the dosage and frequency of administration. Additionally, advice is provided regarding home care, and support is provided to fulfill the patient's requests.
Treatment price
| 1 time for a child | ¥2,400,000 (¥2,640,000 including tax) |
| 2 times for a child | ¥4,300,000 (¥4,730,000 including tax) |
| 1 time for an adult | ¥2,900,000 (¥3,190,000 including tax) |
| 2 times for an adult | ¥4,900,000 (¥5,390,000 including tax) |
Individuals who are unable to receive treatment
- Individuals who do not understand the content of the informed consent document for this regenerative therapy.
- Individuals with hypersensitivity to the anesthesia used during fat harvesting.
- Individuals who may be pregnant.
- Individuals whom the treating physician deems unsuitable for the implementation of this regenerative therapy.
- Individuals over the age of 85.
- Individuals who tested positive for pathogenic microorganisms (such as HIV, syphilis) in the past 6 months.
| The adipose-derived stem cells used in stem cell therapy are cultured from the patient's own adipose tissue, so there are minimal direct side effects associated with administering adipose-derived stem cells. Concerns about cancer development, which are associated with induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells, are not applicable in this case. Some rare side effects have been reported, such as minor internal bleeding or soreness near the site of fat tissue extraction and occasional cases of post-intravenous infusion fever. Stem cell therapy is performed with the mutual agreement of the patient and the physician. Before the treatment, the physician will explain the purpose, safety, risks, and potential effects of the treatment. Please consider these factors carefully and provide your informed consent for the treatment after fully understanding the treatment methods, expected outcomes, and potential side effects explained by the physician. |