Case Report: Combination Therapy with Mesenchymal Stem Cells and Granulocyte-Colony Stimulating Factor in a Case of Spinal Cord Injury

Basic and Clinical, 2015 · DOI: · Published: October 1, 2015

Spinal Cord Injury Regenerative Medicine & Stem Cells

Simple Explanation

This case report explores using stem cells and a growth factor (G-CSF) to help someone with a spinal cord injury. The person had a gunshot wound and was paralyzed. Doctors injected stem cells into the fluid around the spinal cord and gave the patient G-CSF injections. They also did regular physical therapy. The patient showed some improvement in movement and sensation, but also experienced nerve pain that was managed with medication. The study suggests this combination therapy might be safe and helpful, but more research is needed.

Study Duration

12 Months

Participants

A 40-year-old male with acute penetrative SCI (gunshot wound)

Evidence Level

Level 4; Case Report

Key Findings

1
The patient's ASIA Impairment Scale (AIS) improved from A to C, indicating neurological improvement.
2
The Spinal Cord Independence Measure (SCIM III) score increased from 21 to 67, suggesting improved functional independence.
3
The International Association of Neurorestoratology-Spinal Cord Injury Functional Rating Scale (IANR-SCIFRS) improved from 18 to 41.

Research Summary

This case report presents the outcomes of combination therapy using intrathecal mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and subcutaneous granulocyte-colony stimulating factor (G-CSF) along with a rehabilitation program in a patient with acute penetrative spinal cord injury (SCI). The patient showed neurological improvement based on ASIA assessment, alongside reported neuropathic pain that was managed with oral medication. The authors conclude that combination therapy of G-CSF and intrathecal MSCs was safe in this acute SCI case as an adjunct to conventional rehabilitation, but further controlled studies are necessary to establish net efficacy and identify potential side effects.

Practical Implications

Potential Therapeutic Strategy

Combination therapy with MSCs and G-CSF may represent a viable therapeutic option for acute SCI.

Need for Controlled Trials

Further randomized controlled trials are required to confirm the efficacy and safety of this treatment approach.

Refinement of Treatment Protocols

Optimizing cell delivery methods and treatment protocols may improve outcomes in SCI patients.

Study Limitations

1
This is a single case report, limiting the generalizability of the findings.
2
The study acknowledges the potential for autorecovery in acute SCI, which may confound the observed treatment effects.
3
Absence of meticulous cell tracing and post injection viability assessment is an important issue.

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