G-CSF and stem cell therapy for the treatment of refractory thin lining in assisted reproductive technology.

PURPOSE

The study aims to describe two promising therapeutic options for resistant "thin" endometrium in fertility treatment: granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) and stem cell therapy.

METHODS

A review of the scientific literature related to patients with thin endometrium undergoing fertility treatment.

RESULTS

Sufficient endometrial growth is fundamental for embryo implantation. Whether idiopathic or resulting from an underlying pathology, a thin endometrium of <7 mm is associated with lower probability of pregnancy; however, no specific thickness excludes the occurrence of pregnancy. We specifically reviewed two relatively new treatment options for resistant thin lining: intrauterine G-CSF and stem cell therapy. The majority of the reviewed trials showed a significant benefit for intrauterine G-CSF infusion in improving endometrial thickness and pregnancy rates. Early results of stem cell therapy trials seem promising.

CONCLUSIONS

EMT <7 mm is linked to lower probability of pregnancy in assisted reproductive technology. Intrauterine G-CSF infusion appears to be a potentially successful treatment option for resistant cases, while stem cell therapy seems to be a promising new treatment modality in severely refractory cases.