Have you heard of or been to HSCT for MS treatment?
Yes, many people with MS have heard of and undergone HSCT (hematopoietic stem cell transplantation). It's a procedure that aims to reset the immune system by using chemotherapy to destroy your current immune system, then reintroducing stem cells to rebuild it without the Show Full Answer
Have you heard of or been to HSCT for MS treatment?
Yes, many people with MS have heard of and undergone HSCT (hematopoietic stem cell transplantation). It's a procedure that aims to reset the immune system by using chemotherapy to destroy your current immune system, then reintroducing stem cells to rebuild it without the autoimmune response that attacks your nervous system.
Some MyMSTeam members have shared their experiences. One member who had HSCT at Northwestern seven years ago as part of a study reported significant improvement, saying they went from being in a nursing home at 32 to living independently without needing disease-modifying drugs. However, another member who had the treatment in 2018 reported no change, with lesions still growing.
Research shows promising results. A Canadian study found that people who underwent HSCT had zero relapses after the procedure, compared to an average of 1.1 relapses per year before treatment. None of the participants needed disease-modifying treatments afterward.
However, it's important to know that HSCT isn't yet FDA-approved for MS and is considered experimental by many insurers. It's a serious procedure with risks including immune system suppression and potential serious infections. The average cost is around $150,000, though out-of-pocket costs vary.
Experts warn against "stem cell tourism" - seeking treatment at overseas clinics that may not provide proven results or proper follow-up care.
December 18, 2025
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