An Overview Of Stem Cell Replacement

Types Of Cancer Treated

Stem cell replacements may be used to treat both malignant and benign diseases, such as primary amyloidosis, plasma cell disorders, non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, multiple myeloma, inborn metabolism errors, and immune deficiencies. Stem cell replacements also help treat Hodgkin’s lymphoma, chronic leukemia, bone marrow failure syndromes, acute leukemia, aplastic anemia, myelodysplastic syndromes, hemoglobinopathies, adrenoleukodystrophy, and POEMS syndrome. Considering most cancers are treated with rounds of chemotherapy and radiation, a stem cell replacement may be necessary for some patients as these forms of treatment, when done in high doses, can damage or destroy the body's bone marrow.

Explore the various risks and complications associated with this treatment method now.

Risks And Complications

There are many risks associated with stem cell replacement. Some, unfortunately, are potentially deadly. Risks depend on the type of disease and transplant, as well as the health of the patient receiving the replacement. Most patients do not have any trouble with a stem cell replacement procedure. The few who do experience problems may require treatment or hospitalization due to complications. Stem cell transplants can result in stem cell failure, infections, cataracts, cancer, infertility, graft-versus-host disease, and damage to various organs. In the worst-case scenario, death can occur as well.

Next, find out what graft-versus-host-disease is and its connection to stem cell replacements.