Bone Marrow Transplantation: A Path to Renewal
A bone marrow transplant, also known as a Hematopoietic stem cell transplant, is a transformative and potentially curative procedure for severe blood disorders and blood cancers. It replaces a patient’s diseased bone marrow with healthy stem cells and is performed by a specialized hematologist and bone marrow transplant physician in a dedicated hematology center.
Dr. Nishad Dhakate: A Leading Hematologist and BMT Physician
Dr. Nishad Dhakate specializes in autologous and allogeneic blood and bone marrow transplants, leukemia, lymphoma, and myeloma. He expertly manages red, white, and platelet disorders, as well as immunodeficiency disorders, providing patient-tailored, comprehensive care.
Symptoms and Conditions Requiring a Transplant
- Malignant Blood Diseases: Aggressive or high-risk Leukemia, relapsed Hodgkin’s and Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma, and Myeloma.
- Benign Blood Diseases: Thalassemia, Sickle Cell Anemia, severe aplastic anemia, and Myelodysplastic Syndromes.
- Other Disorders: Some Immunodeficiency disorders, Myeloproliferative Disorders, and certain genetic diseases.
Symptoms prompting a transplant usually involve low blood counts: chronic fatigue (Anemia), frequent infections (low white blood cells), and bleeding disorders (Thrombocytopenia).
The Procedure: From Preparation to Recovery
- Preparation (Conditioning): High-dose chemotherapy and/or Ablation Therapy to destroy diseased marrow and make space for new stem cells.
- Stem Cell Collection:
- Allogeneic: Cells from a compatible donor via a bone marrow registry.
- Autologous: Patient’s own cells collected before conditioning.
- Infusion: Stem cells are infused through a central venous catheter, similar to a blood transfusion.
- Engraftment: Stem cells grow in the bone marrow, producing healthy blood cells over several weeks. Patients require sterile environments, close monitoring, supportive care, and frequent transfusions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Que. Is a bone marrow transplant a surgery?A. No. The stem cell infusion is not surgical, though marrow collection from a donor may involve minor surgery. Que. Is it a cure for cancer?
A. For many malignant blood diseases, it offers the best chance for permanent cure. Success depends on disease type and stage, patient health, and donor match. Que. What is the difference between a bone marrow transplant and CAR-T cell therapy?
A. A bone marrow transplant replaces the entire blood-forming system. CAR-T cell therapy uses genetically modified immune cells to target and kill cancer cells. Both are distinct but can be part of a comprehensive treatment plan. Que. Can a Deep Vein Thrombosis be a complication?
A. Yes. The transplant and underlying cancer can increase the risk of blood clots. Hematology doctors monitor risk using Coagulation Tests and take preventive measures.
