Bone marrow transplants, also called stem cell transplantation, attempt to give the patient a healthy source of bone marrow. Healthy bone marrow “stem cells” are the “primitive” or “immature” cells that form all blood cells. These stem cells, when given to the patient, may help to create new bone marrow, restore blood cell production, and improve the patient’s immune system function. They may also help to strengthen the patient when high-dose chemotherapy is prescribed.
Before performing the transplantation, healthy stem cells are first removed from the patient or a donor. They are typically frozen and preserved until they are needed. During the procedure, the healthy stem cells are injected into the patient’s bloodstream in a procedure called an “infusion.” The stem cells then travel to the bone marrow, where they reproduce and replace the destroyed blood elements. Growth-stimulating factors may also be administered to help speed the regeneration of the cells in the bone marrow.
The two major types of bone marrow transplantation are called “allogeneic” (meaning the stem cells come from a donor) and “autologous” (meaning the stem cells are taken by the patient).
Allogeneic bone marrow transplants are rarely recommended to multiple myeloma patients because of the risks associated with the procedure. A patient should generally be under the age of 55 to be considered a candidate for the procedure.
In an allogeneic bone marrow transplant, a healthy person donates stem cells to the patient. The ideal “match” of a donor 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.
Allogeneic bone marrow transplantation can be difficult on the patient. There is a risk that the donor’s cells may be rejected by the patient’s body. Another risk is the suppression of the immune system by the use of special drugs. These drugs are given so that any immune system cells not killed by chemotherapy and radiation will not attack and cause rejection of the stem cells. These drugs risk causing damage to other organs of the body or making the patient vulnerable to infection. Patients are also vulnerable to infection and bleeding until the transplanted stem cells have created sufficient new red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. Multiple myeloma patients may be recommended for a “mini-allogeneic, non-myeloablative” transplantation, which is less rigorous than a regular allogeneic transplantation.
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 multiple myeloma and benzene. Please discuss your health-related questions and concerns with your doctor.
Benzene can cause multiple myeloma and other blood cancers and disorders. If you have been diagnosed with multiple myeloma cancer 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 multiple myeloma.
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