Bone marrow transplants are considered the most successful treatment for younger patients with aplastic anemia. These transplants replace blood-forming cells in the bone marrow that are abnormal. Healthy bone marrow “stem cells” (the “primitive” or “immature” cells that form all blood cells) are removed from the patient or a donor. These reinfused stem cells help to create new bone marrow, restore blood cell production, and improve the patient’s immune system function.
Before a transplant can take place, the patient’s diseased bone marrow must first be destroyed, usually by chemotherapy and radiation. The healthy stem cells are then injected into the patient’s bloodstream in a procedure called an “infusion.” The stem cells then travel to the bone marrow, where they reproduce. Growth-stimulating factors may also be administered to help speed the regeneration of the cells in the bone marrow.
The two types of bone marrow transplantation are called “allogeneic” (meaning the stem cells come from a donor) and “autologous” (meaning the stem cells are taken from the patient). Autologous transplants are considered an experimental therapy for aplastic anemia patients.
In an allogeneic bone marrow transplant, a healthy person donates stem cells to the patient. Your medical professionals will try to find the best donor “match” for you as possible. The ideal “match” is an identical twin. Other siblings may provide a good match, as well. Unrelated donors might also be available through the National Marrow Donor Program (www.marrow.org). However, the chances of a successful outcome are much greater if the donor is related to the patient. Allogeneic bone marrow transplantation is a more common treatment in patients with aplastic anemia under the age of 30, who are more likely to tolerate the rigorous procedure.
This Web site is sponsored by the law firm of Baron & Budd, P.C. Please understand that the information provided is not medical advice, but is simply offered as a resource to help you learn about aplastic anemia and benzene. Please discuss your health-related questions and concerns with your doctor.
Benzene can cause aplastic anemia and other blood cancers and disorders. If you have been diagnosed with aplastic anemia and would like information about your legal rights, please call us at 800-946-9646 or e-mail us at
Please also visit our glossary for helpful definitions of medical terms relating to the diagnosis and treatment of aplastic anemia.
Contact Us for Legal Help
If you or a loved one has AML, NHL, MDS, or Aplastic Anemia and was exposed to benzene or other solvents or chemicals on the job, contact Baron & Budd for a free legal consulation.
First Name:*
Last Name:*
Email Address:*
Address:*
Address 2:
City:*
State* Zip*
Daytime Telephone:*
Evening Telephone:*
The best time to reach me is:*
Daytime Evening
I or a loved one has been diagnosed with:*
I would like an Information Packet and information about the law firm of Baron & Budd, P.C.
I would like a free legal consultation and more information about my legal rights.
Message:
Baron & Budd, P.C. 3102 Oak Lawn Ave Suite 1100 Dallas, TX 75219
