Stem cell injection-induced glioneuronal lesion of the cauda equina

Commercial stem cell therapy and “stem cell tourism” refer to the for-profit industry that has recently experienced a rise in popularity due to the regenerative potential of pluripotent stem cells. Without regulatory oversight, there is a growing concern for the future of legitimate research into stem cell therapy due to exaggerated claims of potential benefit, which in turn can contribute to research misconduct and loss of scientific credibility.1 Associated morbidities such as stem cell-induced lesions are often not given adequate consideration. We present a case illustrating the development of a proliferative lesion after stem cell therapy with a unique morphologic pathology, illustrating this medical conundrum.