Document Type
Article
Publication Title
Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology
Abstract
Background
Exosomes are extracellular vesicles, composed of a phospholipid bilayer, that are primarily derived from stem cells. The contents of exosomes can be incorporated into the tissue in which they are introduced, which presents a unique therapeutic option.
Aims
Exosomes have been investigated as a treatment for a number of medical ailments, but the literature supporting these indications is inconclusive. In addition, much of the study on exosomes and their uses has been recently completed. Thus, this review summarizes the efficacy and implications of exosomes in the treatment of different dermatologic conditions.
Methods
A literature review surrounding the use of exosomes for multiple medical dermatological conditions was conducted. Additionally, we present numerous practical cases in which patients had been treated with exosomes.
Results
Overall, the success of exosomes in treating medical dermatologic conditions demonstrated varying efficacy in the literature, but the preliminary evidence is generally positive. The patient cases also showed satisfactory clinical outcomes but further studies and cases will be necessary to fully characterize the efficacy of exosomes and the ideal modalities for their application, including formulation, mode of distribution, and frequency of treatment.
Conclusions
Exosomes may serve as an effective treatment option for wound healing, reconstruction of skin flaps, radiation dermatitis, acne vulgaris, psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, allergic contact dermatitis, lichen simplex chronicus, vulvar lichen sclerosis, systemic sclerosis, systemic lupus erythematosus, and vitiligo although additional studies are needed to confirm their efficacy and safety.
DOI
10.1111/jocd.16761
Publication Date
1-10-2025
ISSN
1473-2165
Recommended Citation
Dukharan V, Shah M, Broughton L, Stegura C, Samman L, Schur N, Luna JM, Gutierrez Mendoza D, García Lira JR, Valencia-Herrera AM, Macaraeg-Jimenez JD, Belo VG, Gatan RG, Lueangarun S, Amador Ruiz AC, Ziemlewski K, Blanco ZE, Schlesinger T. The Role of Exosomes in Medical Dermatology: Literature Review and Update. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology. 2025; 24(1). doi: 10.1111/jocd.16761.