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Diseases Treated With Stem Cell Therapy

Stem cell therapy is used in regenerative medicine to repair or replace damaged cells and tissues. It is applied across a wide range of conditions, particularly those involving inflammation, degeneration, or immune system dysfunction.

At ANOVA Institute for Regenerative Medicine (ANOVA IRM), treatment is focused on several key categories, including neurodegenerative diseases, autoimmune disorders, orthopaedic conditions, and chronic or systemic illnesses.

This page outlines the main conditions treated within each category and how stem cell therapy may be applied as part of a personalized treatment approach.

 

 Explore All Conditions Treated With Stem Cell Therapy

Multiple Sclerosis

Multiple Sclerosis

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid Arthritis

ALS

ALS

Parkinson's Disease

Parkinson's Disease

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis

Knee Injuries

Knee Injuries

Back Pain

Back Pain

Erectile Dysfunction

Erectile Dysfunction

Spinal Cord Injury

Spinal Cord Injury

Stroke

Stroke

Lyme Disease

Lyme Disease

Dry Mouth

Dry Mouth

Diabetes

Diabetes

Urinary Incontinence

Urinary Incontinence

COPD

COPD

Conditions Treated With Stem Cell Therapy at ANOVA IRM

Neurodegenerative Diseases
Autoimmune Diseases
Orthopaedic Conditions & Sport Injuries
Chronic and Systemic Conditions

Stem cell therapy continues to be studied and developed across a wide range of medical applications. It is most commonly used in conditions affecting joints, the nervous system, and the immune system.

At ANOVA IRM, treatment is focused on several key condition categories, outlined below.

Neurodegenerative Diseases

Many neurodegenerative diseases involve disruptions in normal cell regeneration processes. These conditions are often associated with immune system dysfunction and the accumulation of waste materials within cells. Stem cell therapies can intervene at all levels of this process.

Autologous mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have been central to advancements in this area due to their neuroprotective and immunomodulatory properties, and their ability to transdifferentiate into neural cells under specific conditions.

At ANOVA IRM, we currently apply stem cell therapies for the following neurodegenerative diseases:

Learn how stem cells are used to treat neurodegenerative diseases →

Autoimmune Diseases

Stem cell therapies can be used to treat autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and other inflammatory immune conditions. This is largely due to their ability to help regulate immune responses and reduce inflammation while supporting tissue repair.

In more advanced approaches, Stem Cell Secretome (SCS) may also be used in conditions such as multiple sclerosis, where autoimmune damage affects the myelin sheath of nerve cells. In Europe, ANOVA is the first clinic to offer this treatment.

At ANOVA IRM, stem cell therapy is currently offered for the following autoimmune conditions:

Learn how stem cells are used to treat autoimmune diseases →

Orthopaedic Conditions and Sport Injuries

Orthopaedic conditions typically involve joint degeneration, inflammation, or damage to structures such as cartilage, discs, and ligaments. These issues may develop gradually or result from injury and overuse.

While conventional treatments often focus on symptom relief, stem cell therapies are used to support tissue repair and improve joint function.

At ANOVA IRM, treatment is available for:

Learn how stem cells are used to treat orthopaedic conditions and sport injuries →

Chronic and Systemic Conditions

Chronic and systemic conditions often affect multiple systems within the body and can involve long-term inflammation, tissue damage, or functional decline. In many cases, treatment options are limited and focused on managing symptoms rather than improving underlying function.

Because these conditions involve broader, system-wide processes, stem cell therapies are being explored as a way to support repair at a more systemic level.

At ANOVA IRM, stem cell therapies are applied across conditions including:

The Role of Diagnostics in Treatment Planning

Before stem cell treatment begins, patients undergo a comprehensive diagnostic work-up to guide planning and determine where stem cells should be applied based on their condition. Because different conditions can present with similar symptoms, an accurate diagnosis is essential to select the most appropriate approach.

Founded by Dr. mult. Michael K. Stehling, a radiologist and physicist, ANOVA IRM works in cooperation with the Prof. Stehling Institute for Diagnostic Imaging to provide advanced diagnostic techniques, including arthro-MRI and non-radioactive contrast MRI.

These methods help localize the source of pain or inflammation, allowing treatment to be applied more precisely compared to standard diagnostic approaches.

Discover Our Full Diagnostic Work-Up →

ANOVA IRM Full-body MRI scan of human anatomy for stem cell therapy

MRI imaging used to guide stem cell therapy treatment Source: Siemens Healthcare

How Stem Cell Therapy Is Applied Across Different Conditions

Stem cell therapy is used in regenerative medicine to heal and restore damaged tissues and organs. The source and application of treatment vary depending on the condition, and many of these therapies are considered experimental when conventional options are limited.

At ANOVA IRM, all therapies are based on autologous stem cell treatments, meaning the cells are taken from the individual patient. This approach minimizes the risk of disease transmission and adverse immune reactions that can occur with donor-derived cells.

Bone Marrow Concentrate (BMC) and Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSCs) are among the most commonly used forms of adult stem cells and are harvested from bone marrow or subcutaneous fat tissue. In addition to cell-based therapies, ANOVA also offers Stem Cell Secretome, a cell-free therapy that uses regenerative factors released by stem cells to support healing and immune regulation.

Depending on the condition, treatments may be applied locally to targeted areas or used more broadly to support systemic processes such as immune function. The specific approach is always selected based on the patient’s condition, treatment goals, and diagnostic findings.

Learn more about our stem cell therapies →

ANOVA IRM Deutschland CT-guided stem cell injection into joint tissue
Targeted stem cell therapy to repair specialized cells Source: Siemens Healthcare

What Stem Cell Therapy Can and Cannot Do for These Conditions

While stem cell therapy can support the repair of damaged tissue and improve function in certain medical conditions, it is not a cure-all solution. Many applications are still considered experimental, and it is important to understand both the potential benefits and limitations.

What stem cell therapy may do

  • Support the repair of damaged or injured tissue
  • Help regenerate or support the formation of new tissue
  • Modulate inflammatory responses in chronic conditions
  • Improve function or reduce symptoms depending on the condition
  • Support specific biological functions depending on the condition being treated

What stem cell therapy cannot guarantee

  • Stem cell therapy is not a guaranteed cure for all conditions
  • Results vary based on the type and progression of the disease
  • Outcomes are often focused on symptom improvement and functional support rather than complete reversal
  • Not all medical conditions respond equally to treatment

Safety and Considerations

Many stem cell therapies are experimental and, like other medical procedures, carry risks such as infection, immune reactions, and procedure-related complications. Risk levels vary by condition, therapy type, and individual patient factors.

When considering treatment, several important factors can influence safety and outcomes:

  • Source of stem cells: Treatments using donor-derived cells may carry a higher risk of immune reactions or disease transmission compared to cells derived from the patient’s own body
  • Processing and quality control: The way stem cell products are handled, tested, and prepared can impact safety and consistency
  • Clinical oversight: Proper diagnostics, medical supervision, and individualized planning are essential for appropriate treatment
  • Regulatory standards: Treatments performed within regulated medical frameworks are subject to quality and safety controls

At ANOVA IRM, treatments follow a regulated German medical framework and use autologous stem cells derived from the patient’s own body. Stem cell products are prepared under controlled laboratory conditions in accordance with GMP and the European Pharmacopoeia, supporting a consistent and individualized treatment approach.

Who May Be a Candidate for Stem Cell Therapy?

Patients with certain neurological, orthopaedic, autoimmune, or chronic medical conditions may be considered for stem cell therapy, particularly those involving inflammation, tissue damage, or functional decline.

Eligibility depends on several factors, including the specific diagnosis, the stage and progression of the disease, and overall health. Because medical conditions can vary significantly, not all patients are suitable for treatment.

A full medical evaluation is required to determine whether stem cell therapy may be appropriate for an individual case.

Considering Stem Cell Therapy?

If you may be a candidate for stem cell therapy, the next step is a detailed medical evaluation to determine whether treatment is appropriate for your condition.

ANOVA IRM offers personalized consultations to review your medical history, diagnostic imaging (such as MRI, CT, or X-ray), and treatment options. Consultations can be conducted remotely by phone or video, with on-site evaluations available if needed.

Our team will guide you through the process, including what information is required and how your case will be assessed.

Request a consultation →

Frequently Asked Questions

Which conditions can be treated with stem cell therapy?

Stem cell therapy is used for a range of conditions involving inflammation, degeneration, or immune system dysfunction. These include neurological disorders such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and spinal cord injury, orthopaedic conditions such as osteoarthritis, and various chronic or systemic diseases.

Can stem cell therapy cure diseases?

Stem cell therapy is not considered a cure for most conditions. While stem cell research continues to explore new possibilities, many applications are still being evaluated in clinical trials. Treatment is typically focused on supporting tissue repair, reducing inflammation, and improving function rather than fully curing disease.

How do I know if I am a candidate for stem cell therapy?

Eligibility depends on several factors, including the diagnosis, stage of the condition, and overall health. Patients with chronic or degenerative conditions may be considered, but a full medical evaluation is required to determine whether treatment is appropriate.

Is stem cell therapy safe?

Like many medical procedures, stem cell therapy carries potential risks, including infection, immune reactions, and procedure-related complications. Safety depends on factors such as the type of therapy, clinical oversight, and whether treatment is performed using a patient’s own cells within a regulated medical setting.

How is stem cell therapy tailored to different medical conditions?

Treatment approaches vary depending on the condition being treated. Factors such as the location of the affected tissue, the underlying cause of the condition, and individual patient characteristics all influence how stem cells are applied. Diagnostic findings play a key role in determining the most appropriate treatment plan.

What types of stem cell therapies are used?

Common approaches include Bone Marrow Concentrate (BMC) and mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), both of which are used in adult stem cell–based therapies derived from the patient’s own body. These differ from therapies such as blood stem cell transplants used in other areas of medicine. The appropriate treatment is selected based on the condition and therapeutic goals.

How much does stem cell therapy cost?

Costs can vary depending on the condition being treated, the type of therapy used, and the complexity of the treatment plan. A personalized consultation is typically required to provide an accurate estimate.

Is stem cell therapy covered by insurance?

In most cases, stem cell therapy is not covered by insurance, as many applications are still considered experimental and under further research. Coverage may vary depending on the provider, country, and specific treatment.

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  1. Xu, Ming, et al. " Transplanted senescent cells induce an osteoarthritis-like condition in mice. " The Journals of Gerontology Series A: Biological Sciences and Medical Sciences (2016): glw154.
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Contraindications

Our stem cell treatments are experimental, but we only treat patients for whom we believe the risk/benefit ratio indicates treatment based on the state of the art, i.e., medical, scientific evidence.

Please understand that we therefore do not treat patients for whom the following points apply:

  • Active cancer in the last two years
  • Not yet of legal age
  • Existing pregnancy or lactation period
  • Unable to breathe on own, ventilator
  • Difficulty breathing in supine position
  • Dysphagia (extreme difficulty swallowing)
  • Psychiatric disorder
  • Active infectious disease (Hepatitis A, B, C, HIV, Syphilis, or other)