Bone marrow transplants, also known as stem cell transplants, are medical procedures that infuse healthy blood-forming stem cells into the body to replace bone marrow that is not producing enough blood cells. These transplants may use cells from the patient’s own body (autologous transplant) or from a donor (allogeneic transplant).
Bone marrow transplants are typically performed when the patient’s bone marrow stops working and fails to produce enough healthy blood cells. There are various medical conditions that may necessitate this procedure, including both cancerous and noncancerous diseases such as acute leukemia, multiple myeloma, and immune deficiencies.
A bone marrow transplant can have various benefits, such as allowing treatment with high doses of chemotherapy or radiation. However, the procedure can also pose numerous risks and complications. Some patients may experience minimal issues with the transplant, while others may require treatment or hospitalization. In rare cases, complications may be life-threatening.
Possible complications from a bone marrow transplant include graft-versus-host disease (a complication of allogeneic transplant only), stem cell failure, organ damage, infections, cataracts, infertility, new cancers, and death.
Patients who receive a transplant that uses stem cells from a donor (allogeneic transplant) may be at risk of developing graft-versus-host disease (GVHD). This serious condition occurs when the donor stem cells see the patient’s body tissues and organs as something foreign and attack them. GVHD may happen at any time after the transplant and can affect many organs. Signs and symptoms of chronic GVHD include joint or muscle pain, shortness of breath, vision changes, skin changes, rash, and gastrointestinal problems.
If you are considering a bone marrow transplant, it is important to discuss the potential risks and benefits with your healthcare provider to determine if the procedure is right for you.
