Stem Cell Therapy

[Everlasting]

Hello:  I am curious as to how the stem cell technology is coming along as I understand there are clinics outside North Americal where ths can be obtained.  Has anyone checked out this treatment and if so, did it return damaged kidneys to a level of greater wellness?  How long did the treatment results remain functioning at a higher level?
Looking forward to your response.
Everlasting

MOVED TOPIC TO MEDICAL BREAKTHROUGHS - RERUN - MODERATOR

[Rerun]

I went to a meeting about Adult Stem Cell pills that were supposed to help rejuvenate lots of the body, but not bring kidneys back to life.  Basically they wanted us to sell the product and get others to sell the product etc...   My sister fell for it and is taking them but has not noticed feeling any better.  She is in good health anyway.  She just worries about her memory going.

[paris]

I have FSGS - the kidneys are scarred.  I look forward to stem cell research and growing new organs in labs. But, don't know when that will ever be available. 

[RichardMEL]

I went to a meeting about Adult Stem Cell pills that were supposed to help rejuvenate lots of the body, but not bring kidneys back to life.  Basically they wanted us to sell the product and get others to sell the product etc...   My sister fell for it and is taking them but has not noticed feeling any better.  She is in good health anyway.  She just worries about her memory going.

wow! nothing yells out "SCAM!" like that Rerun!! (with no offence to your sister intended). Like that link someone posted the other day for that product that GUARANTEED kidney health would be restored. Yep, sure mate.....

*sigh*

[Everlasting]

I have FSGS - the kidneys are scarred.  I look forward to stem cell research and growing new organs in labs. But, don't know when that will ever be available.

     Hi, Paris:  IWe (myself and Victor, CKF)) had a conference call with personnel from the McAllen, Texas clinic -- they have a stem cell program across the border in Mexico.  It was explained to us that the stem cells will not "cure" damaged filtering cells however it does greatly increase the efficiency of those cells that are not damaged.  In Victor's case he was told he could expect his kidneys function to increase from 25% to 50% function.  Such would give him a lifetime of function - no dialysis - no transplant!!! 
     When we asked how long it lasts -- they do not have a definite answer however at Victor's age (68 yr.s young) they tell us that he can expect it will last his lifetime.  He will also receive treatment for post stroke symptoms at the same time for the same price.
     In your situation I am not sure how it would benefit you.  If your filtering cells are scarred to the point that they are not functioning I fear stem cell therapy would not be beneficial however if your current cells are scarred but minimally working that the introduction of stem cells would increase the efficiency of what does remain to function.
     We pray that modern science will be your path to wellness
Everlasting

[Zach]

Please read these articles.



Stem cell therapy 'damage' seen in kidney disease case
http://ihatedialysis.com/forum/index.php?topic=19253.msg327542#msg327542

Danger, Stem Cell Tourists: Patient in Thailand Dies From Treatment
http://ihatedialysis.com/forum/index.php?topic=19253.msg327775#msg327775

[Jie]

I guess every ESRD treatment is dangerors, you name it: dialysis, transplant, or stem cell therapy. I hope someone can quantify the risk of stem cell therapy, rather than just to present a case. A case does not mean much.