Dr Rahul Bhargava Haematologist

MBBS, MD, DM (Clinical Haematology)

Principal Director & Chief Hematology at Fortis Hospital

MBBS, MD, DM (Clinical Haematology)

Principal Director & Chief Hematology at Fortis Hospital

Autologous Stem Cell Transplant

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) :

autologous transplants have fewer complications than allogeneic transplants, patients may still experience infections, graft failure, or organ damage due to chemotherapy. However, these risks are managed with close monitoring and care.

The success rates vary depending on the disease being treated. For example, for multiple myeloma, the 5-year survival rate after autologous transplant can range from 50% to 80%, depending on the patient’s overall health and other factors.

 No, in an autologous stem cell transplant, only the patient’s own stem cells are used. For some conditions, an allogeneic transplant (using donor cells) may be more suitable.

Recovery involves rebuilding the immune system, which can take a few months. During this time, patients need to follow strict hygiene measures to avoid infections and may need blood transfusions and other supportive treatments.

Introduction to Autologous Stem Cell Transplant

Autologous Stem Cell Transplant is a life-saving procedure in which a patient’s own stem cells are used to replace damaged or destroyed bone marrow. Dr. Rahul Bhargava, a renowned hematologist and stem cell transplant specialist, is a pioneer in performing successful stem cell transplants with a focus on personalized care and high success rates.

What is an Autologous Stem Cell Transplant?

Autologous stem cell transplant is a procedure where a patient’s own healthy stem cells are harvested and reintroduced after high-dose chemotherapy or radiation. This type of transplant is typically used to treat various blood-related diseases and cancers, such as:

  • Multiple Myeloma
  • Lymphomas (Non-Hodgkin’s and Hodgkin’s)
  • Certain types of leukemia
  • Other bone marrow disorders

By using the patient’s own cells, the risk of rejection is minimized, offering a safer and effective treatment option.

Causes of Conditions Treated by Autologous Stem Cell Transplant

  1. Genetic Mutations: Certain genetic mutations can lead to abnormal cell growth, causing cancers like leukemia, lymphoma, and multiple myeloma.
  2. Environmental Factors: Exposure to chemicals, radiation, and certain viruses may increase the risk of developing blood cancers.
  3. Immune System Dysfunction: Autoimmune diseases occur when the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells and tissues. This dysfunction is often linked to genetic factors, infections, or environmental triggers.
  4. Chemotherapy-Induced Damage: Some cancer treatments can damage bone marrow, requiring stem cell transplants to restore healthy cells.

Types of Conditions Treated by Autologous Stem Cell Transplant

  1. Blood Cancers
    • Lymphoma: Includes Hodgkin’s and Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma, where abnormal lymphocytes grow uncontrollably.
    • Leukemia: Specifically Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) and Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML), which affect white blood cell production.
    • Multiple Myeloma: A cancer that affects plasma cells in the bone marrow, leading to weakened bones and immune function.
  2. Autoimmune Disorders
    • Lupus: An autoimmune disease that affects various parts of the body, leading to inflammation and organ damage.
    • Systemic Sclerosis (Scleroderma): A condition characterized by hardening and tightening of the skin and connective tissues.

Symptoms That Might Lead to Stem Cell Transplant Consideration

Patients who may benefit from an autologous stem cell transplant may exhibit symptoms depending on the underlying condition, such as:

  • Persistent fatigue
  • Frequent infections
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Anemia
  • Bone pain (common in multiple myeloma)
  • Swollen lymph nodes
  • Fever and night sweats (common in lymphomas)

If these symptoms persist and traditional treatments fail, a stem cell transplant may be recommended.

How is an Autologous Stem Cell Transplant Diagnosed?

Before undergoing an autologous stem cell transplant, patients must undergo extensive testing and diagnostic procedures, including:

  1. Blood Tests: To assess the patient’s overall health, kidney, liver, and blood cell counts.
  2. Bone Marrow Biopsy: This helps diagnose the stage of the disease and the health of the bone marrow.
  3. Imaging Tests: Such as CT scans or PET scans to locate any signs of cancer or disease.
  4. Stem Cell Collection Tests: To ensure that enough healthy stem cells can be harvested for the transplant.

Treatment Process for Autologous Stem Cell Transplant

  1. Pre-Transplant Treatment: Before the transplant, high-dose chemotherapy or radiation therapy is used to eliminate cancerous or diseased cells in the body. While this eradicates the cancer, it also destroys the bone marrow, which is why the reintroduction of stem cells is essential.
  2. Stem Cell Harvesting: Stem cells are harvested from the patient’s blood using a process called apheresis. This is usually done over several days.
  3. Stem Cell Infusion: After the high-dose chemotherapy, the harvested stem cells are infused back into the patient’s bloodstream, where they begin the process of regenerating healthy bone marrow.
  4. Recovery: Recovery after an autologous stem cell transplant typically involves a hospital stay of several weeks as the immune system rebuilds. During this time, patients are closely monitored for complications like infections.

Cost of Treatment and Stay in India

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