Bone Marrow Transplant: A Journey to a New Beginning
A bone marrow transplant, or Hematopoietic stem cell transplant, replaces a patient’s diseased bone marrow with healthy stem cells, regenerating a functional blood-producing system. This life-saving procedure is conducted by a skilled hematology team and bone marrow transplant physician.
Dr. Nishad Dhakate: A Leading Expert in Hematology and BMT
Dr. Nishad Dhakate specializes in autologous and allogeneic bone marrow transplants, leukemia, lymphoma, and myeloma. He manages red, white, and platelet disorders, as well as immunodeficiency disorders, providing comprehensive, personalized care.
Symptoms and When a Transplant Is Needed
Bone marrow transplant is considered when other treatments fail or for high-risk diseases:
- Leukemia: Acute or high-risk cases may need a bone marrow transplant for leukemia as a definitive cure.
- Lymphoma: Hodgkin’s or Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma may require a transplant after relapse or for aggressive disease.
- Myeloma: Standard part of treatment for many patients.
- Myelodysplastic Syndromes: High-risk MDS often requires a transplant as the only curative option.
- Severe Benign Blood Diseases: Thalassemia, Sickle Cell Anemia, or severe aplastic anemia.
The Procedure: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Preparation (Conditioning): High-dose chemotherapy and/or Ablation Therapy destroy diseased bone marrow and suppress the immune system to create space for new stem cells.
- Stem Cell Donation: Stem cells are collected from a donor (allogeneic) or the patient (autologous). Collection can be from bone marrow or peripheral blood (apheresis).
- Infusion: Stem cells are infused via a central venous catheter, similar to a blood transfusion.
- Engraftment and Recovery: Stem cells migrate to the bone marrow, producing new blood cells. This takes weeks and requires careful monitoring. Supportive therapies like transfusions and medications manage side effects.
The Role of a Hematology Doctor and Advanced Therapies
Success relies on a hematology team and may include advanced therapies like Biological Therapy for Cancer and CAR-T cell therapy. The patient receives the most suitable blood disorder treatment for their condition.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Que. Is a bone marrow transplant the same as a stem cell transplant?A. Yes. Stem cells are the active components transplanted, so the terms are often used interchangeably. Que. What is the difference between an autologous transplant and a donor transplant?
A. Autologous uses the patient’s own stem cells, while donor (allogeneic) uses stem cells from a matching donor. The choice depends on the disease. Que. Is the transplant a cure?
A. For many malignant blood diseases, it offers the best chance for a permanent cure. Risks are significant, and the hematologist assesses each patient individually. Que. Is it painful for the donor?
A. Bone marrow donation under anesthesia is painless. Peripheral blood stem cell donation is like donating platelets, with temporary flu-like symptoms. Que. Can a transplant cure a bleeding disorder?
A. Not typically, but severe conditions like aplastic anemia causing low platelet count (Thrombocytopenia) may be treated with a transplant.
