Here is detailed information about allogeneic (donor) stem cell transplants for myeloma based on the knowledge base:
Overview
- Purpose: Replace cancerous bone marrow cells with healthy stem cells
- Common Use: Less common than autologous transplants, typically considered for younger people with relapsed, high-risk Show Full Answer
Here is detailed information about allogeneic (donor) stem cell transplants for myeloma based on the knowledge base:
Overview
- Purpose: Replace cancerous bone marrow cells with healthy stem cells.
- Common Use: Less common than autologous transplants, typically considered for younger people with relapsed, high-risk myeloma.
Process
- Preparation:
- Chemotherapy, radiation, or both are administered to destroy cancerous cells.
- Stem Cell Source:
- Donor, often a close blood relative or a good genetic match.
- Stem cells are usually harvested from the blood (peripheral blood stem cells) rather than bone marrow.
Benefits
- Graft-Versus-Myeloma Effect:
- Donated immune cells may attack cancer cells, potentially curing myeloma.
Risks
- Graft-Versus-Host Disease (GVHD):
- Donor cells attack the recipient's tissues.
- Ranges from mild to life-threatening.
- Acute GVHD requires powerful immunosuppressants like corticosteroids.
- Chronic GVHD can improve overall survival in milder cases.
Hospitalization and Recovery
- Hospital Stay:
- Typically 2-3 weeks for recovery.
- Outpatient Option:
- 30-40% undergo outpatient transplants with daily monitoring.
- Post-Transplant Care:
- Antibiotics, antiviral, and antifungal medications to prevent infections.
- Possible transfusions of red blood cells or platelets.
Considerations
- Side Effects:
- Significant risk of severe, life-threatening side effects.
- Eligibility:
- Often considered after an autologous transplant has failed.
Research and Improvements
- Ongoing Studies:
- New transplant regimens and improved treatments for side effects are being researched to make allogeneic transplants safer.
For more detailed information, you can visit the source: [Allogeneic (donor) stem cell transplant for Myeloma | MyMyelomaTeam](https://www.mymyelomateam.com/treatments/alloge...).
July 15