Stem cell transplants are used to replace bone marrow that has been destroyed by disease, chemo, or radiation. A stem cell transplant can also be used to treat cancer by using another person's stem cells to help fight the cancer.

In some diseases, like leukemia, aplastic anemia, certain inherited blood diseases, and diseases of the immune system, the stem cells in the bone marrow don't work the way they should. They either make too few blood cells, too few immune cells, or too many abnormal cells. Any of these problems can cause the body to not have enough normal red blood cells, white blood cells, or platelets. A stem cell transplant may help correct these problems.

In some cancers, like lymphomas and multiple myeloma, a stem cell transplant can sometimes be used as part of treatment.

The decision to have a transplant is not an easy one. The cancer care team must compare the risks linked with the disease itself versus the risks of the transplant procedure. The stage of the disease, patient's age, time from diagnosis to transplant, donor type, and the patient's overall health are all part of the decision.

Last Medical Review: 05/27/2009
Last Revised: 05/27/2009