Platelet Rich Plasma does NOT contain stem cells although it has been shown to be effective in numerous research and clinical studies.
You may have been surprised to learn that Platelet Rich Plasma does NOT actually contain stem cells, right? Read on to discover this and other common myths about PRP and Vulvar Lichen Sclerosus.
Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) heals everything.
A common myth is that PRP is a “miracle” solution that can cure almost any disease. Although PRP has proven to be effective in the treatment of certain pathologies, it is not a solution for all health problems. My advice is to be well informed before receiving a PRP treatment in order to have realistic expectations and to understand that results may vary depending on the person and the condition being treated.
Debunking the great myth
Which treatment is better for vulvar Lichen Sclerosus: Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) or stem cells?
In reality, Platelet Rich Plasma does not contain stem cells, it contains various growth factors which can contribute to tissue regeneration and healing of injuries.
PRP is more accessible as it can be obtained from the patient’s own blood, whereas stem cells require more elaborate and experienced procurement and can only be performed by experienced and qualified specialists.
Although both are promising treatments in the field of regenerative medicine, it is important to understand the differences between the two. Both treatments have their own applications and benefits and can be mixed, and it is important to consult a Vulvar Lichen Sclerosus (VLS) specialist to determine which is best suited for each case.
It is important to clarify that platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and stem cells are two different treatments and should not be confused.
While PRP is based on the concentration of growth factors released by platelets, stem cells are used to regenerate damaged tissues and organs. It has been shown that stem cells can aid in the healing and treatment of various diseases and injuries with VLS.
Although both treatments have their own applications and benefits, it is important to emphasize that platelet-rich plasma does not contain stem cells. If you are considering stem cell treatment, you should look for specialists experienced in that treatment, as PRP will not serve that purpose.
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) vs. Nanofat and SVF (Stromal Vascular Fraction)
Despite the popularity of PRP (I personally like to apply it in very early stages of lichen vulva and in selected cases), there are other treatments available that may have superior benefits compared to PRP in the treatment of lichen sclerosus and lichen planus. I am talking about regenerative treatments that include therapy with the patient’s own fat-derived stem cells (Adipose Derived Stem Cells or ADSCs), such as Nanofat and the application of Stromal Vascular Fraction (SVF or Stromal Vascular Fraction).
Conclusion
In short, platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is a medical treatment used to stimulate tissue regeneration and repair. Although PRP contains a high concentration of growth factors, it is important to make it clear once and for all that, contrary to what many people believe, platelet-rich plasma does NOT contain stem cells. which produce the anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory and regenerative effect on the Lichen Sclerosus vulvaelichen planus, lichen planus, vaginal lichen and lichen perianalis.
If you want to know more myths related to Lichen Sclerosus, we leave you this other article. Many patients often ask me if natural oils can help relieve VLS symptoms. I have written this article for them.
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Dr. Patricia Gutiérrez Ontalvilla (MD PhD)
