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Clinicopathologic Correlations of Retinal Membranes Associated With Intravitreal 'Stem Cell' Injections
Abstract:
The histologic findings of a subretinal band and epiretinal membrane (ERM) excised from two patients who developed retinal detachments (RDs) after non-U.S. Food and Drug Administration-regulated intravitreal "stem cell" injections are reported. Both membranes were composed of fibrocellular tissue that stained positively with Smooth Muscle Actin and Masson's trichrome, consistent with collagenous and smooth muscle composition. CD34 immunostain (for hematopoietic cells) was negative for the subretinal band and minimally positive for the ERM. The authors speculate that the "stem cells" may cause RDs by differentiation into myofibroblasts that cause tractional membranes, though further studies are warranted. [Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina. 2019;50:125-131.].
Insights
Histologic analysis revealed fibrocellular tissue in membranes causing retinal detachment (RD) after unapproved stem cell injections. These tissues, rich in collagen and smooth muscle, suggest stem cells may differentiate into myofibroblasts, leading to tractional RDs.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Regenerative Medicine
- Histopathology
Background:
- Intravitreal injections of unapproved stem cells are being used experimentally.
- Retinal detachment (RD) is a serious complication that can result from ocular procedures.
Observation:
- Two patients developed RDs following non-FDA-regulated intravitreal stem cell injections.
- Histologic examination of excised subretinal and epiretinal membranes was performed.
Findings:
- The excised membranes were composed of fibrocellular tissue.
- Positive staining for Smooth Muscle Actin and Masson's trichrome indicated collagen and smooth muscle content.
- CD34 immunostaining was negative in the subretinal band and minimally positive in the epiretinal membrane.
Implications:
- The study suggests that injected "stem cells" may differentiate into myofibroblasts.
- This differentiation could lead to the formation of tractional membranes, causing retinal detachment.
- Further research is needed to confirm the mechanism and implications of these findings.