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Real members of MyMyelomaTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

Autologous Stem Cell Transplant?

A MyMyelomaTeam Member asked a question 💭
Stuart, VA

My husband is starting the process for an autologous stem cell transplant next month. I'd like to hear from folks who've undergone the procedure. I have a basic understanding of what's involved, I'm just wanting to prepare myself as much as possible by hearing actual experiences. Thanks!

July 22, 2023
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A MyMyelomaTeam Member

It was hard but doable. I was in the hospital 14 days. Walking is very important for recovery. I lost my appetite. Encourage him to drink fluids even if he isn't able to eat.

July 23, 2023
A MyMyelomaTeam Member

Marlea my husband had his sct just over five years ago. He injected himself with a drug to grow , release stem cells. They were collected till he had enough for two transplants. He had his stem cell in the hospital and some people are outpatient. He received mephelan one day and the stem cells the next day. He ate, chewed ice for many hours on mephelan day so he would not get mouth sores. The stem cells coming back was like getting an infusion. He did smell strongly of garlicky cream corn for a day after. This is because of the preservative the stem cells are in. He felt pretty good for the first week and then developed nausea, lack of appetite, etc. They took excellent care of him and monitored absolutely everything so he was as comfortable as possible. He was encouraged to walk every day and he did .
Hope your hubby has a complete response. Let us know how it goes❤️🙏❤️

July 22, 2023
A MyMyelomaTeam Member

I just had it in July. I was in the hospital for 53 days. When I got home, I had trouble sleeping, no appetite whatsoever. I've been so weak. Even to this day. I'm remaining position in spite of it all. I'm still very grateful I had it done because I believe I will live longer.

October 23
A MyMyelomaTeam Member

An autologous stem cell transplant for multiple myeloma involves the following:

- Purpose: Replace cancerous bone marrow cells with healthy stem cells
- Procedure:
- Harvesting: Stem cells are collected from the patient's own blood before chemotherapy or early in the chemotherapy cycle.
- Storage: The harvested cells Show Full Answer

An autologous stem cell transplant for multiple myeloma involves the following:

- Purpose: Replace cancerous bone marrow cells with healthy stem cells.
- Procedure:
- Harvesting: Stem cells are collected from the patient's own blood before chemotherapy or early in the chemotherapy cycle.
- Storage: The harvested cells are frozen until needed.
- Transplantation: After high-dose chemotherapy or radiation destroys the cancerous cells, the stored stem cells are infused back into the patient.
- Risks: The transplanted cells may be contaminated with myeloma cells, potentially leading to relapse.
- Outcomes: Extends survival, with a median survival of approximately 73 months for those who receive the transplant compared to 50 months for those who do not.

Eligibility:
- Generally not recommended for those over 77 years of age, with cirrhosis of the liver, severe heart disease, or other conditions limiting self-care and daily activities.

Maintenance:
- Post-transplant, patients typically receive 2-3 years of maintenance medications to sustain treatment response.

Considerations:
- Early vs. delayed transplant decisions are based on genetic risk factors and other individual considerations.

July 16

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