Fact or Fiction? Adipose-Derived Stem Cells and Platelet-Rich Plasma for the Treatment of Vulvar Lichen Sclerosus

Abstract

Objective The aim of the study was to summarize and review the evidence for the efficacy and safety of adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) for the treatment of vulvar lichen sclerosus (LS). Materials and Methods PubMed/MEDLINE, Ovid, Web of Science, and clinicaltrials.gov were searched from inception up to May 7, 2018. Results Seven observational studies were identified, with a total of 98 patients. Both ADSCs and PRP were reported to improve symptoms, quality of life measures, as well as clinical and histological signs of vulvar LS. There is a strong risk of biased estimates of treatment effect. Conclusions Current evidence is weak for ADSCs and/or PRP as treatment for vulvar LS. Further research is needed before recommending this therapy.