Our blood has a type of cell called platelets which are not only responsible for coagulation but also play a key role in tissue repair and cell regeneration.
When activated, they release exosomes, small structures containing a variety of biological components such as proteins, lipids and RNA. These agents influence the surrounding cells, promoting regenerative processes. This is why they can be used to foster healing and repair in various gynaecological disorders and diseases.
This treatment harnesses the body’s natural components, thus reducing the risk of adverse reactions and making the therapy more effective.
What it is
Treatment with autologous platelet-derived exosomes is an outpatient technique based on the intradermal application of these active agents, which are taken from a sample of the patient’s blood. The procedure is divided into several stages.
- Blood draw
The first step is taking a small sample of the patient’s blood. This blood is processed in a specialised laboratory to extract the platelets.
- Processing the blood
The platelets from the blood are processed in a specialised laboratory using a process known as centrifugation. This procedure separates platelets.
- Getting the exosomes
Once the platelets have been harvested, they are activated by a controlled process which triggers the release of the exosomes.
- Treatment delivery
The autologous platelet-derived exosomes are applied to the affected area using a minimally-invasive technique by means of local injections.
What is the treatment indicated for?
- Vulvovaginal atrophy.
- Vulvar lichen sclerosus.
- Eczema.
- Psoriasis.
- Scars.
- Vaginal or vulvar erosions/ulcers.
Expected outcomes and benefits
- How long it takes to see the results may vary depending on several factors such as the patient’s individual response, the severity of the condition and the specific protocol used by the practitioner. The first signs of improvement may appear around 2-4 weeks after treatment.
- Outpatient treatment: performed at the clinic.
- Painless: only requires the application of a local anaesthetic cream.
- Recovery: the procedure is generally quick, although it does call for subsequent follow-up to evaluate the response.
FAQs
What are the risks of this technique?
The risks are minimal, although bleeding, ecchymosis, bruising and infections may occur. There may also be complications derived from the anaesthetic procedure (topical or local).
Is the blood draw similar to that of a normal blood test?
Yes, it’s the same.
Do I have to have more than one blood draw?
Only in cases where the sample cannot be obtained with the first draw.
Do I have to fast before the draw?
No, it’s best not to fast.
In which cases is it considered particularly suitable or a good alternative to other regenerative treatments?
In the case of inflammatory skin conditions or any process that requires tissue regeneration such as vulvar lichen sclerosus, vulvovaginal atrophy, resistance to usual medical treatments or wound healing, photo- and chrono-ageing, atopic dermatitis and psoriasis.
How many sessions can be carried out?
Each case has to be treated on a personalised basis. However, sometimes results can be seen with just one session. The number of sessions may vary depending on the specific condition, the severity of the disease and the individual patient’s response. The protocols suggest between 1 and 3 sessions in most cases. A maintenance session can be done every 3 to 6 months thereafter as needed depending on clinical improvement and medical evaluation.
Are there any contraindications?
Yes. It is contraindicated in cases of known allergy to blood products or platelet derivatives, active infections, clotting disorders or severe haematological diseases, active cancer, pregnancy and breastfeeding.
