Treatment

Autologous bone marrow transplant

Overview

Autologous bone marrow transplant is a medical treatment used for certain blood cancers and bone marrow disorders. In this process, a person’s own healthy stem cells are collected, stored and later given back after strong chemotherapy or radiation. This helps in rebuilding the body’s blood and immune system. It is most commonly used in diseases like Hodgkin’s lymphoma, non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, myeloma and plasma cell disorders. Since the patient’s own cells are used, the risk of rejection is low and recovery is often quicker than with donor transplants.

Why Autologous Bone Marrow Transplant Treatment is Required?

• When high-dose chemotherapy is needed to treat cancers like myeloma, non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, or Hodgkin’s lymphoma, it can destroy bone marrow along with cancer cells.
• This treatment helps restore bone marrow function after such intensive therapy.
• Useful in treating plasma cell disorders where the body needs to rebuild healthy blood cells.
• Helps improve the chances of long-term remission in some cancers.
• Offers better control of the disease by allowing higher doses of chemotherapy.

Key Advantages of Autologous Bone Marrow Transplant Treatment

• Uses the patient’s own stem cells, so no risk of donor mismatch.
• Lower risk of graft-versus-host disease.
• Faster recovery of the immune system.
• Better tolerance and fewer complications compared to allogeneic transplants.
• Often results in good long-term outcomes, especially for multiple myeloma and lymphomas.
• Autologous bone marrow transplant success rate is generally high for well-selected patients.

How Should You Prepare Yourself Before Autologous Bone Marrow Transplant Treatment

• Medical evaluation to check if you’re fit for high-dose chemotherapy and transplant.
• Detailed tests including blood work, heart and lung functions.
• Collection of stem cells from your blood using a process called apheresis.
• Temporary insertion of a central line (catheter) for treatment administration.
• Emotional preparation and support, as it involves hospital stay and recovery period.
• Discuss potential stem cell transplant side effects with your care team.

How Autologous Bone Marrow Transplant Treatment is Performed?

• Step 1: Collection of stem cells from your bloodstream.
• Step 2: High-dose chemotherapy to destroy cancer cells and damaged marrow.
• Step 3: Transplantation of your previously collected stem cells back into your body.
• Step 4: Supportive care in a hospital setting as your new bone marrow grows.
• Step 5: Monitoring and follow-up to track recovery and prevent infections.

What You Can Expect Before, During and After Procedure?

1. Before the Procedure:

• Stem cell collection and storage.
• Thorough health check-ups and clearance.
• Hospital admission for the treatment phase.

2. During the Procedure:

• Intensive chemotherapy is given.
• Your stem cells are infused back after chemotherapy.
• You will be monitored closely for any signs of infection or side effects.

3. After the Procedure:

• Blood counts take time to recover (usually 2–3 weeks).
• You may feel weak, tired and vulnerable to infections.
• Nutrition, hydration and medications are essential during recovery.
• Regular follow-up and blood tests are required for months.

Risk and Potential Complications

• Temporary drop in blood cells leading to risk of infection, bleeding or fatigue.
• Nausea, mouth sores and diarrhea from chemotherapy.
• Risk of organ damage in some cases due to high-dose treatment.
• Long-term side effects like infertility or hormonal changes may occur.
• Rare chance of relapse or the need for another transplant.
• Emotional and psychological effects that need support and care.

Results/Outcomes

• Many patients achieve remission or significant improvement, especially in myeloma and lymphomas.
• Autologous bone marrow transplant success rate depends on age, disease type and overall health.
• Long-term survival is possible when combined with proper post-transplant care and monitoring.
• Quality of life often improves once recovery is complete.
• Lifesaving option when standard chemotherapy alone isn’t enough.