Stem Cell Transplantation

In a stem cell or bone marrow transplant, a patient's diseased bone marrow is destroyed by high doses of chemotherapy, followed by the infusion of healthy bone marrow stem cells into the bloodstream.

The new stem cells migrate to the cavities of the large bones and begin producing healthy, normal blood cells. The type of transplant you receive depends on your disease and the availability of a suitable donor.

We will work with you, step by step, in finding and preparing a donor, if you need one, or guide you in preparing to have your own stem cells collected for use in your transplant.

There are various types of stem cell or bone marrow transplants including:

• Autologous (self-transplant): Your own cells are collected and frozen for later use. Autologous transplants are most commonly performed for lymphoma, multiple myeloma, testicular cancer and leukemia.
• Syngeneic (identical twin transplant): Stem cells are donated by an identical twin, an ideal donor due to the matching genetic identity between donor and recipient.
• Allogeneic (donor transplant): Stem cells are collected from a relative or an unrelated donor whose tissue type closely matches that of the patient, or from umbilical cord blood. Allogeneic transplants are most commonly done for leukemia, bone marrow or immune system failure diseases.
• Bloodless transfusions: For patients requiring a bloodless stem cell transplantation, our transplant center specializes in bloodless autologous transplants. Patients do not receive any allogeneic blood or blood products after stem cell reinfusion. Cytopenias are managed with growth factors and other drugs to prevent bleeding.

A stem cell transplant can be a life-saving treatment for patients with certain types of cancer. Here's an explanation of its benefits:

• Replacing damaged bone marrow: Some cancers, like leukemia or lymphoma, can damage the bone marrow, which is like the body's blood cell factory. A stem cell transplant can replace the damaged bone marrow with healthy stem cells, allowing the body to produce normal blood cells again.
• Boosting the immune system: Cancer treatments like chemotherapy can weaken the immune system, making it harder for the body to fight infections. A stem cell transplant can help rebuild the immune system, making it stronger and better able to defend against infections.
• Offering a chance for cure: For some types of cancer, a stem cell transplant can offer a chance for a cure. By replacing the damaged cells with healthy ones, the transplant can help stop the cancer from coming back.
• Improving quality of life: Even if a stem cell transplant doesn't cure the cancer, it can still improve the patient's quality of life. It can help control the disease, reduce symptoms and prolong survival, giving patients more time to spend with their loved ones.
• Advancing research: By participating in a stem cell transplant, patients contribute to medical research that can lead to improved treatments that may provide better outcomes for future patients.