Stem cell transplantation Treatment of Non Hodgkins Lymphoma (NHL)

Stem cell transplantation Treatment of Non Hodgkins Lymphoma (NHL)

VII. Stem cell transplantation

Stem cells are immature blood cells that develop into the RBC, the WBC and the platelets. They originate in the stem- cell forming tissues, particularly the bone marrow.

Autologous transplant - when an individual's own stem cells are used for transplantation.

Allogenic transplant - when the stem cells are sourced from a donor

The transplant can be carried out using peripheral stem cells or bone marrow cells.

Before transplantation is carried out high-dose chemotherapy, sometimes along with radiotherapy, is employed to destroy the malignant bone marrow cells. These eliminated cells are then restored with the newly transplanted stem cells. Due to an increased risk of infection, the patient is closely monitored in a hospital.

Stem cell transplants are used in patients who are resistant to chemotherapy or in whom the disease has recurred as an aggressive form.