Stem cells are a prominent topic in modern medicine due to their unique qualities that can be employed to treat many conditions. They can grow into a variety of cell types, a trait that enables them to be a versatile tool for the replacement of various tissues that may be lacking or missing in an ill person’s body. However, the practice of inducing stem cell growth and desirable transformation artificially is still new and likely to have adverse side effects. As such, research into the application of the method to the treatment of various conditions is crucial.
The article reviewed in this post, written by Charlotte Lillis, discusses the use of stem cell therapy for the consequences of rheumatoid arthritis. According to Lillis, the condition causes an inflammation that can extend to the cartilage as well as other tissues and result in irreversible damage. The harm done to tissues may then lead to further injuries, particularly in joints, which require cartilage to function safely.
Lillis states that, while synovial mesenchymal stem cell therapy via direct injection is a promising treatment that is sometimes employed to treat the condition, it can have severe adverse side effects. As such, scientists are studying whether the approach is viable and safe.
Current interventions for damage caused by rheumatoid arthritis are intrusive and generally unable to address the issue entirely. They are not capable of restoring lost tissue and are limited to slowing or stopping the process. As such, a noteworthy gap exists in current medical knowledge and practices, and stem cells offer a way to fix the deficiency. As the condition is somewhat widespread and may impede the mobility of the person affected by it, a method that can make the patient’s life more comfortable will be highly beneficial. As such, the medical community should continue investigating the treatment and following the results carefully.
Work Cited
Lillis, Charlotte. “Stem Cell Therapy for Rheumatoid Arthritis.” Medical News Today. 2019. Web.