Patient guides
Stem Cells vs PRP vs Exosomes: Key Differences
Names used in regenerative marketing do not describe one interchangeable treatment.
PRP and exosomes are not the same as living stem cells. A platform listing should identify the actual preparation rather than infer its contents from a brand name.
Understand the material
| Term | What to clarify |
|---|---|
| Cell preparation | Which cells, their source, processing and how their identity is measured. |
| PRP / PRF | A platelet-based blood preparation; ask what it contains and why it is proposed. |
| Exosomes | Cell-derived particles, not living stem cells; ask for the product and regulatory status. |
| Conditioned media | Material associated with cell culture; this label does not establish that viable cells are administered. |
| SVF / BMAC | Mixed preparations from fat or marrow; not a standardized pure stem cell product. |
Why the distinction changes a decision
Studies of one preparation cannot automatically support another. A clinic may offer several of these services on the same page. Ask which specific service you are being quoted for and request the protocol, rather than relying on the clinic’s general “regenerative” description.
The directory excludes clinics where only a cell-free product, platelet preparation, research activity or vague regenerative language could be established. Some included clinics offer these alongside an explicitly advertised cell procedure; their presence does not validate every product on the menu.
Ask for precise consent language
The consent form should describe what is actually administered. If the answer changes between “stem cells,” “growth factors” and “exosomes,” request clarification from the treating clinician before proceeding. Ask whether the preparation has a measured viable cell count and which relevant authorization applies.
Sources and further reading
- ASGCT — Unproven stem cell productsSource checked 9 October 2026.
- About Stem Cells — Unproven treatmentsSource checked 9 October 2026.