Autologous Bone Marrow/Stem Cell Transplant is a medical procedure where a patient's own bone marrow or stem cells are collected, stored, and then reinfused into their body after high-dose chemotherapy or radiation therapy. This treatment aims to replenish the bone marrow and restore the body's ability to produce healthy blood cells, which may have been damaged during cancer treatment.

When and why do people go for Autologous Bone Marrow/Stem Cell Transplant? 

People undergo an Autologous Bone Marrow/Stem Cell Transplant when they are diagnosed with certain types of cancer, such as leukemia, lymphoma, or multiple myeloma, where high-dose chemotherapy or radiation therapy is required to kill cancer cells. The transplant allows patients to receive higher doses of treatment, which can be more effective in eradicating cancer cells, while also providing a way to restore the body's ability to produce healthy blood cells afterward.

What makes Autologous Bone Marrow/Stem Cell Transplant different from other treatment options? 

Autologous Bone Marrow/Stem Cell Transplant offers a unique approach to cancer treatment compared to other options. Unlike traditional chemotherapy or radiation therapy, which can damage the bone marrow and immune system, autologous transplant allows patients to receive higher doses of treatment without the risk of graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) associated with allogeneic transplants. Additionally, using the patient's cells reduces the risk of rejection and eliminates the need for finding a compatible donor, making it a more accessible treatment option for many patients.

How does life change after an Autologous Bone Marrow/Stem Cell Transplant?

Life after Autologous Bone Marrow/Stem Cell Transplant can bring about significant improvements in cancer treatment outcomes and quality of life. Following the procedure, many patients experience a period of recovery during which their immune system gradually rebuilds and their blood cell counts return to normal levels. While the recovery process may involve some challenges, many patients ultimately experience a reduction in cancer symptoms and an improved prognosis. Overall, autologous transplants can offer hope for remission and a better quality of life for individuals undergoing cancer treatment.