The Basic Process

There are four main steps in the process of stem cell/bone marrow transplantation.

1. In the case of an autologous stem cell transplant, to administer chemotherapy to reduce the cancer to as low a level as possible and, in the case of peripheral blood stem cell transplant, to mobilize the stem cells into the peripheral blood for collection.
2. In the case of an allogeneic stem cell/bone marrow transplant, to collect the stem cells/bone marrow from the donor to store for later use, or use as fresh cells.
3. Give high dose chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy to the patient to remove any remaining cancer cells from the body. This treatment will empty the bone marrow, and in the case of allogeneic transplant will immunosuppress the patient in order to prevent graft rejection.
4. Return the stored stem cells/bone marrow to the body. It will be 2–4 weeks before the cells find their way through the bloodstream to the bones and start to make new blood cells. This stage requires hospitalization. Antibiotics are given to prevent infections. Also, blood and platelets transfusions could be needed.