Review of the Published Literature Confirms the Safety of Intravenous Infusion of Mesenchymal Stem Cells

Abstract

Background: Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have been shown to decrease inflammation and enhance healing due to their immunomodulatory properties and secretion of growth factors. Intravenous infusion is the most common delivery route of MSCs, and it is used for the treatment of a wide variety of conditions, with established efficacy.

Objective: This review will analyze the safety of intravenous infusion of MSCs and determine the incidence of any possible resultant Serious Adverse Events (SAEs).

Methods: Using PubMed, we searched the scientific literature to identify SAEs related to intravenous infusion of MSCs. We performed disease-specific searches and a general adverse event search.

Results: A total of 70 studies were included in this review. Thousands of infusions were administered and only two SAEs were identified from the same study. The SAEs were two upper extremity thromboembolisms in patients with preexisting renal disease.

Conclusion: Properly performed intravenous infusion of MSCs is very safe, with a near absence of reported serious adverse events associated with its use.

Keywords: Mesenchymal stem cell; inflammation; intravenous infusion; rheumatoid arthritis; serious adverse events; stem cell treatment.