Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation in Delhi, India

Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation is a treatment that involves the intravenous infusion of hematopoietic stem cells to revive the production of blood cells in patients whose bone marrow is damaged or defective. Stem cells can be obtained from the blood, bone marrow, and umbilical blood of the patients or from a donor.

This treatment has been used to treat certain types of cancers such as myeloma, leukemia, and some immune system disorders.

Alternate Name of Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation

Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation is also known as bone marrow transplant.

Body Location

Bone marrow is a soft tissue in the body that contains hematopoietic stem cells, and it is located in the center of most bones.

Procedure of Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation

It is not a surgical procedure, and is similar to a blood transfusion.

Preparation for Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation

Preoperative Test

There are specific tests that need to be conducted before a hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, such as a blood test, chest X-ray, bone marrow biopsy, heart tests, and PET scan.

Admission to the Hospital

The hospital's transplant team will decide if the patient needs to be hospitalized or if the procedure will be done in an outpatient center. If the patient has to be hospitalized, they will come in the day before the pre-transplant chemo treatment begins. The patient has to make sure that a close family member is with them all the time.

Diet Plan

No fast food or food from restaurants is allowed before the procedure. The patient should eat fresh fruits and vegetables only, after rinsing them under clean running water.

How Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation Performed?

There are two types of bone marrow transplant:

Autologous Transplant

• The patient will receive stem cells for autologous transplant from their own body, and this process is also known as AUTO transplant.
• First, the patient will receive injections to increase their stem cells, and then stem cells are collected through a vein in their arm or chest.
• The patient receives a high dose of chemotherapy for 5 to 10 days.
• After that, the stem cells will be back in their bloodstream through the catheter.

Allogenic Transplant

• In this process, the donor supplies stem cells to the patient, and it is also known as an ALLO transplant.
• A healthcare team will collect cells from the donor's blood or bone marrow.
• If cells are collected from the bloodstream, the donor will receive daily injections to increase the white cells in their blood a few days before the collection.
• If cells are collected from the bone marrow, it will be through a procedure known as bone marrow harvest.
• The patient will require chemotherapy for 5 to 7 days to prepare their body for the donor's cells.
• Once their body is prepared, a healthcare team will infuse the donor's stem cells into the patient's bloodstream with the help of a catheter.

Follow Up After Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation

The recovery stage begins after the stem cell infusion. The patient has to stay in the hospital for a few weeks and allow the stem cells to settle in the bone marrow. The patients should avoid strenuous exercise and give the new cells time to implant themselves in the healing tissues.

Risks of Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation

The stem cell transplant process does not end after the patient goes home, since there is a risk of infection. The patient will feel tired and will also be required to take a lot of medicines. It is essential to give them proper support for their speedy recovery.

Recovery After Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation

It takes a lot of time to recover from a bone marrow transplant. The patient might take 6-12 months to have a normal immune system. It is possible to develop an infection after the procedure, but the patient must get a long-term recovery plan from the doctor to avoid any complications.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How is the donor for HSCT selected?

The donor for Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation (HSCT) is typically selected based on compatibility. This involves matching human leukocyte antigens (HLA) between the donor and the recipient. Ideally, a sibling or close family member is the first choice, but unrelated donors can also be considered by doing a search in the international registry.

2. What is the process of collecting stem cells for HSCT?

The process of collecting stem cells for HSCT can be done through two main methods: bone marrow harvest or peripheral blood stem cell collection. In bone marrow harvest, the donor undergoes a surgical procedure to extract bone marrow from the hip bone. In peripheral blood stem cell collection, the donor receives medications to stimulate the mobilizationa of stem cells from bone marrow to peripheral blood of stem cells, which are then collected through a process called apheresis.

3. Are there any dietary restrictions or special precautions after HSCT?

Dietary restrictions can vary depending on the specific medical condition, the type of transplant, and the recommendations of the healthcare team. It is essential to follow the guidance provided by the healthcare team regarding diet, hygiene, and lifestyle modifications to support the recovery process.

4. How long does it take for the immune system to recover after HSCT?

The time it takes for the immune system to recover after HSCT varies from person to person. Generally, it can take several months to a year for the immune system to fully recover. During this period, individuals are more susceptible to infections, and close monitoring by the healthcare team is crucial.

5. Can HSCT cure all types of diseases?

HSCT is effective in treating various diseases, including certain types of cancers, blood disorders, and immune system disorders. However, it is not a universal cure for all diseases. The suitability and success of HSCT depend on several factors, including the specific disease, the stage of the disease, and individual patient characteristics and it needs to be discussed with the transplant physician in detail.

6. What are the success rates of HSCT in Delhi?

The success rates of HSCT in Delhi, or any other location, can vary depending on factors such as the type of disease being treated, patient factors, and the expertise of the medical team. It is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional or a specialized transplant center to understand the success rates specific to your condition.

7. Are there any alternative treatments to HSCT in delhi?

In Delhi, there may be alternative treatments available for certain diseases or conditions that can be considered alongside or instead of HSCT. The availability of alternative treatments depends on the specific disease, the medical facilities in the region, and the recommendations of the healthcare team before embarking on alternative treatment that needs to be discussed with the physician.

8. Can HSCT be performed for older adults?

HSCT can be performed for older adults, but the suitability of the procedure depends on several factors, including the overall health of the individual, the specific disease being treated, and the evaluation by the medical team and the expected outcome of disease.