Bone Marrow Transplant

Bone marrow transplant, also known as hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT), is a medical procedure that involves replacing damaged or diseased bone marrow with healthy stem cells. Bone marrow is a soft, spongy tissue found inside bones that produces blood cells, including red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets.

Bone marrow transplant may be used to treat various conditions, including:

1. Leukemia: A cancer of the blood and bone marrow.

2. Lymphoma: A cancer that affects the lymphatic system.

3. Multiple myeloma: A cancer that affects the plasma cells in bone marrow.

4. Sickle cell anemia: A genetic blood disorder that affects the shape and function of red blood cells.

5. Thalassemia: A genetic blood disorder that affects the production of hemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen.

There are three main types of bone marrow transplant:

1. Autologous bone marrow transplant: The patient's own stem cells are collected and stored before undergoing high-dose chemotherapy or radiation therapy. The stored stem cells are then infused back into the patient's body to help restore healthy bone marrow function.

2. Allogeneic bone marrow transplant: Stem cells are collected from a compatible donor, such as a sibling or an unrelated donor. The donor stem cells are then infused into the patient's body to replace damaged or diseased bone marrow.

3. Umbilical cord blood transplant: Stem cells are collected from the umbilical cord and placenta after a baby is born. The stem cells are stored and used for transplant in patients who require a bone marrow transplant.

Bone marrow transplant is a complex and potentially risky procedure that requires careful monitoring and follow-up care. The decision to undergo bone marrow transplant is made on a case-by-case basis and depends on various factors, including the patient's overall health, the stage and type of disease, and the availability of a compatible donor.