ASIA syndrome (Autoimmune/Inflammatory Syndrome Induced by Adjuvants), also called Schoenfeld syndrome, is associated with the development of autoimmune or inflammatory diseases caused by exposure to adjuvants – substances that enhance the immune response. Adjuvants include various chemical compounds, such as aluminum, contained in vaccines, cosmetics, implants and other medical or household products.
Causes of ASIA syndrome
Genetic predisposition
Some people have a hereditary tendency to excessive activation of the immune system, especially if they have genes associated with autoimmune diseases (eg, HLA-DRB1, HLA-DQ).
Chronic exposure to adjuvants
With prolonged or repeated exposure to adjuvants, the body may perceive them as a potential threat, which causes a chronic inflammatory response.
Immune hyperstimulation
Adjuvants can trigger excessive activation of the immune system, which leads to a disruption of self-regulation mechanisms. This contributes to the development of autoimmune diseases or exacerbation of existing ones.
Violation of the body’s barriers
For example, when using silicone implants or other medical devices, the body can react to their material as foreign, activating the immune system.
Epigenetic factors
External factors (e.g. infections, stress, toxic substances) can activate certain genes responsible for inflammation, which enhances the reaction to adjuvants.
Symptoms of ASIA syndrome
Chronic fatigue
Joint and muscle pain
Low fever
Memory and concentration impairment
Symptoms similar to autoimmune diseases such as SLE, rheumatoid arthritis or vasculitis.
ASIA syndrome (Autoimmune/inflammatory Syndrome Induced by Adjuvants) is a rare autoimmune or inflammatory syndrome that can develop in response to the introduction of adjuvants, substances that enhance the immune response, into the body. In cosmetology, such substances can be found in injectables and implants.
Possible procedures that can potentially cause ASIA syndrome:
Contour plastic surgery with fillers
Hyaluronic acid-based products, especially if they contain stabilizers or additional chemicals.
Fillers based on silicone, polyacrylamide, calcium hydroxyapatite and other synthetic materials.
Mesotherapy and biorevitalization
Preparations containing not only hyaluronic acid, but also vitamins, amino acids or other components that can act as adjuvants.
Botulinum toxin injections
Although botulinum toxin itself rarely causes ASIA syndrome, preservatives or carrier proteins in the preparation can be triggers.
Biopolymer implantation
Permanent implants or fillers (e.g. silicone gels), which can cause a long-term immune reaction.
Thread installation
Lifting threads, especially if they contain synthetic materials (e.g. polydioxanone, polycaprolactone).
Lipofilling
Although the procedure is based on the use of the patient’s own fat tissue, the addition of certain substances to increase the stability of the injection can lead to complications.
Mechanism of ASIA syndrome development:
The entry of adjuvants into the body can activate the immune system, causing a long-term inflammatory reaction.
This can lead to the development of autoimmune diseases if a person has a predisposition.
Prevention:
Before cosmetic procedures, it is important to collect an anamnesis, identifying the presence of autoimmune diseases or a tendency to them.
Use of proven drugs with a minimum amount of additional substances.
Selection of certified specialists and clinics.
If you notice symptoms of ASIA syndrome after a cosmetic procedure, it is important to consult a doctor (immunologist) for diagnosis and treatment.
Stem cell treatment for ASIA syndrome
The main goal of stem cell therapy is to regulate the immune system and restore tissue damaged by chronic inflammation.
Mechanism of action of stem cells
Immunomodulation:
Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are able to suppress an overactive immune response, which is especially important in autoimmune conditions. They reduce inflammation and regulate the work of T-lymphocytes and other cells of the immune system.
Anti-inflammatory effect:
MSCs secrete cytokines and other molecules that reduce the level of inflammation in the body.Tissue regeneration:
The ability to stimulate the restoration of damaged tissues through the secretion of growth factors.
Treatment process
Choice of stem cells:
MSCs from different biomaterials are used (embryonic, from the umbilical cord, umbilical cord blood, adipose tissue, bone marrow)
Method of administration:
Injections of stem cells can be performed intravenously or locally (depending on the nature of the lesion and the clinical picture).
Complete cure of ASIA syndrome (Autoimmune/inflammatory Syndrome Induced by Adjuvants) is possible, but it depends on many factors, including the severity of the condition, the duration of the disease, the degree of tissue and organ damage, as well as individual characteristics of the body.
Main aspects of treatment:
Removal of the trigger (adjuvant):
If the syndrome is caused by the introduction of injectable drugs (for example, fillers), it is important to remove them from the body. This can be done with enzymatic therapy (hyaluronidase for hyaluronic fillers) or surgery (removal of silicone implants or other materials).
If the cause is related to vaccination or other temporary exposure, the trigger may gradually leave the body.
Immunomodulatory therapy:
Medications that suppress the immune response, such as corticosteroids, immunosuppressants or biologics, help control inflammation and symptoms.
Symptomatic treatment:
Therapy is aimed at eliminating pain, fatigue, skin and joint manifestations, improving the patient’s quality of life.
Comprehensive support:
Physiotherapy, diet, elimination of other stress factors for the immune system (infections, toxic substances).
Recovery:
In many patients, symptoms are significantly reduced after the removal of the adjuvant and proper treatment.
In some patients, especially with mild forms of ASIA syndrome, complete remission is possible.
However, in some people, the disease may become chronic or provoke the development of other autoimmune diseases (for example, systemic lupus erythematosus or Sjogren’s syndrome).
Factors Affecting the Outcome:
Speed of Diagnosis: The sooner ASIA syndrome is detected and the adjuvant is eliminated, the higher the likelihood of a full recovery.
Individual Predisposition: Having a genetic predisposition to autoimmune diseases can complicate the treatment process.
Amount of Damage: If the inflammatory process has affected important organs (e.g., lungs, kidneys, or joints), full recovery may be difficult.
Prognosis: With timely diagnosis and treatment, the prognosis is usually favorable. However, since ASIA syndrome is often accompanied by individual variability in the course, each patient requires a personalized approach.
GET FREE ONLINE CONSULTATION
