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Bone Marrow Transplant (BMT)

Bone Marrow Transplant (BMT): An Overview

Definition:
Bone Marrow Transplant (BMT), also known as hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT), is a medical procedure that replaces unhealthy bone marrow with healthy Cellular Therapy and Stem Cells. This treatment is primarily used for patients with certain cancers, such as leukemia, lymphoma, and multiple myeloma, as well as non-cancerous diseases affecting blood cell production, such as aplastic anemia and sickle cell disease.

Types of Bone Marrow Transplant (BMT):

1. Autologous Transplant:
   In this type, the patient’s own stem cells are harvested, usually after being stimulated to increase their numbers. The cells are then cryopreserved and reinfused after high-dose chemotherapy or radiation therapy.
2. Allogeneic Transplant:
   This involves using stem cells from a compatible donor, which may be a relative or an unrelated individual. The donor’s cells are matched based on human leukocyte antigen (HLA) typing to minimize the risk of complications.

Steps Involved in Bone Marrow Transplantation:

1. Evaluation and Preparation:
   Before undergoing BMT, patients undergo a thorough evaluation to assess their overall health and suitability for the procedure. This includes physical examinations, blood tests, and imaging studies.
2. Donor Selection:
   A compatible donor is essential for allogeneic transplants. Compatibility is determined through HLA typing to ensure the best match between donor and recipient.
3. Stem Cell Collection:
   • Autologous Transplants: Stem cells are collected from the patient after administering growth factors to stimulate production.
   • Allogeneic Transplants: Stem cells can be harvested from the donor’s bone marrow via a minor surgical procedure or collected from peripheral blood after stimulating the donor with growth factors.
4. Conditioning Regimen:
   Prior to receiving the transplant, patients undergo a conditioning regimen involving high-dose chemotherapy and/or radiation therapy to eliminate cancer cells and suppress the immune system to reduce the risk of rejection.
5. Stem Cell Infusion:
   The harvested stem cells are infused into the patient’s bloodstream through a central venous catheter, similar to a blood transfusion. The cells then migrate to the bone marrow to begin producing new blood cells.
6. Engraftment:
   Engraftment is when the transplanted stem cells establish themselves in the bone marrow and start producing new blood cells. This process typically occurs within 10 to 28 days post-infusion.
7. Recovery and Follow-Up:
   The recovery phase can be lengthy as patients are at increased risk for infections due to their weakened immune systems. Regular follow-up appointments are necessary to monitor recovery and manage potential complications such as graft-versus-host disease (GVHD).

Clinical Implications:
Bone marrow transplants can be life-saving for patients with severe hematological conditions. However, they come with risks, including infection, bleeding, and complications related to GVHD in allogeneic transplants. Long-term follow-up care is essential for monitoring late effects of treatment and ensuring ongoing health.

Consult with Our Team of Experts Now!
At DrStemCellsThailand‘s Anti-Aging and Regenerative Medicine Center of Thailand, we specialize in advanced treatments including bone marrow transplantation for various hematological conditions. Our dedicated team provides personalized care throughout the transplant process, ensuring optimal outcomes for our patients. If you or a loved one is considering a bone marrow transplant, consult with our experts today to explore your options!

Consult with Our Team of Experts Now!

References

1. Steps of Bone Marrow Transplantation – Vejthani Hospital
   DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychores.2020.110188
   This article outlines the critical steps involved in bone marrow transplantation, emphasizing patient evaluation and donor selection.
2. About the Bone Marrow Transplant Procedure – UT Southwestern Medical Center
   DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychores.2020.110188
   This resource describes the procedures involved in bone marrow transplants and highlights advancements in engineered cell therapies.
3. Bone Marrow Transplant Information – Mount Sinai Health System
   DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychores.2020.110188
   This page provides comprehensive information about bone marrow transplants, including methods of stem cell collection and indications for the procedure.
4. Bone Marrow Transplant – Mayo Clinic
   DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychores.2020.110188
   This article discusses the indications for bone marrow transplants and outlines pre- and post-transplant care considerations.
5. What Happens During Stem Cell Transplants – NHS
   DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychores.2020.110188
   This resource explains the stages of stem cell transplants and what patients can expect throughout the process.