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Treatment and the treatment process

What is a transplant

A stem cell transplant replaces diseased or damaged bone marrow with new blood-forming cells.

Last updated: ~1 min read
A new garden — What is a transplant
Figure 1.A new garden — What is a transplant

01Short answer

First, strong treatment (conditioning) is given, then the stem cells are dripped into a vein; it is not an operation. The cells find their way to the marrow and start making new blood cells. There are two main types: your own cells (autologous) and donor cells (allogeneic). In leukaemia, allogeneic transplants are used more often.

02Simple explanation

Topic. what a transplant is.

Ask. Your team will explain your own situation.

Write down. Your questions.

Overview. The article “Stem cell transplant”.

03Scientific explanation

Engraftment: the new cells starting to make blood.

Graft-versus-leukaemia effect: donor immune cells fight the leukaemia.

04What happens in the body?

What a transplant is

First, strong treatment (conditioning) is given, then the stem cells are dripped into a vein; it is not an operation. The cells find their way to the marrow and start making new blood cells. There are two main types: your own cells (autologous) and donor cells (allogeneic). In leukaemia, allogeneic transplants are used more often.

In more detail

Engraftment: the new cells starting to make blood. Graft-versus-leukaemia effect: donor immune cells fight the leukaemia.

The marrow resetting.
Figure 2.The marrow resetting.

The overview

This article goes deep into one subject. For the bigger picture, see “Stem cell transplant”.

Two sources of cells.
Figure 3.Two sources of cells.

05What a transplant is: the steps

Four steps.

Assessment — Eligibility.1AssessmentEligibility.
Conditioning — Preparation.2ConditioningPreparation.
Infusion — A drip.3InfusionA drip.
Recovery — Weeks to months.4RecoveryWeeks to months.

06Two types

TypeCellsSee
AutologousYour own“Autologous transplant”
AllogeneicA donor’s“Allogeneic transplant”
MatchingHLA typing“Donor matching”

07Key terms

Stem cell
A cell that makes all blood cells.
Engraftment
The new cells starting to work.

08Key points

  • Everyone’s plan is individual.
  • Write down and bring your questions.
  • Report new symptoms early.
  • Do not change medicines yourself.
  • For food, see “Handwashing: the simplest protection” and “Eggs and dairy: safe choices”.
  • Overview: “Stem cell transplant”.

09Frequently asked questions

Is a transplant an operation?

No; the cells go into a vein like a transfusion.

Is this the same for everyone?

No; the plan depends on the type of leukaemia and your situation.

Where is the overview?

In the article “Stem cell transplant”.

10Questions for your doctor

Take these questions to your appointment. The ones you save are collected on the “My questions” page and stay on this device only.

  1. Is a transplant an operation?

  2. Is this the same for everyone?

  3. Where is the overview?

My questions

12Sources

  1. National Cancer Institute (NCI). Stem Cell Transplants in Cancer Treatment
  2. MedlinePlus. Bone Marrow Transplantation
  3. MedlinePlus. Leukemia
  4. Cancer Research UK. CAR T-cell therapy
  5. Biology of Blood and Marrow Transplantation, 2019. ASTCT Consensus Grading for Cytokine Release Syndrome and Neurologic Toxicity Associated with Immune Effector Cells
  6. American Cancer Society. Stem Cell or Bone Marrow Transplant
  7. American Cancer Society. Types of Stem Cell or Bone Marrow Transplant
  8. American Cancer Society. Donating Stem Cells or Bone Marrow
  9. American Cancer Society. Stem Cell Transplant for Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia
  10. NHS (UK). Stem cell or bone marrow transplants
Medical disclaimerThis information is for educational purposes only and does not replace medical advice.
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