What is a stem cell transfusion?
stem cell transfusion introduces stem cells into the blood of the patient who needs them. The blood cells often come from the bone marrow, although it can also come from the umbilical cord. These cells may come from a patient or donor. The reasons for this include cancer and certain types of anemia. Stem cell transfusion has helped to save many lives since it was first used in 1968, but has risks, some of which are fatal. If donor cells are used, the immune system is suppressed to prevent rejection. The intravenous catheter called the central line is placed in the chest and provides a port for transfusions, chemotherapy and possibly nutrition. The side effects of this phase include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, bleeding, mouth ulcers, hair loss, fatigue, cataracts and organ failure. Infertility may also occur.
The transfusion of stem cells itself takes from one to five hours. The transplanted stem cells are found in bones where they create new marrows and stem cells. RunThe patient is monitored to fever or hives. The bloody number is normalized within a few weeks. Patients may remain hospitalized until this happens.
After transplantation, the patient's blood will be often monitored. Supplementary nutrition may be necessary due to vomiting and diarrhea. Blood transfusions can be served until the new bone marrow has its own sufficiently. Medicines will help reduce the complications of the procedure. More antibiotics and preventive measures will help prevent infection.
If donor cells are used, there is a possibility of graft and host disease. This happens when donor cells attack the recipient. It may occur or years after stem cell transfusion. Symptoms include skin rash, diarrhea, nausea and vomiting, along with complications such as liver damage and secondary disease. Stepon host diseases are treated with intravenous corticosteroids.
someThe patients tolerate this procedure very well, while others have many complications. Patients with better general health before the procedure may have a better chance to avoid complications, but there is no way to know. Most patients after treatment are remission. Patients who were very sick earlier learned that they were able to return to normal activities.
In patients too patients to undergo normal transfusion, transfusions of mini stem cells are available. Instead of destroying all cancer cells, drugs and radiation relies on donor cells to attack patient cells of the patient. This allows much lower doses of chemotherapy and radiation before the procedure, which reduces side effects. Many patients can sprays the procedure, but it is generally not as effective as standard treatment and is reserved for the poorest patients.