What is a Stem Cell Transplant?

Stem cell transplants are when doctors inject healthy stem cells into the bloodstream of someone to replace their stem cells.

Although it can take some time to feel better after stem cell transplants, the treatment can be extremely helpful in certain illnesses.

What are Stem Cells?

Stem cells are cells that can be transformed into many types of cells. Stem cells are used to transplant blood cells. They can be:

  • Red blood cells they carry oxygen
  • White blood cells that fight infection
  • PlateletsThese help blood clot

Stem Cell Transplants: Why?

Stem cell transplants are a great option for people who need:

  • Grave blood and immune system diseases
  • Some types of cancer
  • Immune deficiency
  • Lupus and other autoimmune diseases
  • Blood disorders, such as sickle cell disease or thalassemia, can be caused by blood.

Where do stem cells come from?

The stem cells can be obtained by doctors from:

  • Bone marrow (also known as a Transplantation of bone marrow
  • Bloodstream
  • After the cord has been removed from a newborn baby’s umbilical cord, blood can be drawn from it.

The person who supplies the stem cells is called a Donor. People can become their own donors for certain illnesses. The stem cells of the patient are removed, frozen, and then transplanted later. Sometimes, the stem cells are donated by someone else.

Stem cells that come from someone else must share the same genetic makeup. A good match is usually a brother or sister of a child. Sometimes, a parent or a distant relative can be matched.

What Happens if a donor isn’t a good match?

If the donor stem cell match is not good (and sometimes they are),:

  • The donor stem cells can be attacked by the body’s immune system. This is known as Rejection.
  • Transplanted cells may attack cells in the body. This is known as Graft-versus-host disease.

What are Stem Cell Transplants?

Doctors place a temporary cap on the stem cell transplant before they can proceed with the actual procedure. Central line The central venous catheter. This intravenous (IV) line is inserted into the skin through a large vein close to the heart. The central line is more durable than regular IVs. The central line allows the medical team to administer medicine and collect blood without having to use a lot of needles.

In the hospital, stem cell transplants can be done. The person receiving the stem cells is the first subject to high doses of radiation and chemotherapy.

  • Stop the disease-causing cells
  • Weaken their immune system to prevent rejection of donor stem cells

The donor stem cells are then transferred to the recipient via an intravenous (IV) line.

What happens after a transplant?

After a stem cell transplant, the body takes time to produce new red blood cells and white blood cells. They are at greater risk of infections, bleeding, and other issues during this period.

The majority of transplant recipients stay in hospital for between 3-5 weeks and three to five weeks. The medical team will:

  • To determine if transplanted stem cells make new blood cells, you should conduct blood tests.
  • Prevent rejection and graft versus host disease by prescribing medicines.
  • Prevent infections with medicines
  • Transfuse red blood cells, platelets, and white blood cells.
  • Verify that all organs, such as the liver or kidneys, are functioning properly.
  • Any problems such as bleeding, infection, bleeding, rejection, or graft-versus-host disease should be treated immediately.
  • Make sure that the patient has good nutrition.
  • All visitors should follow the following infection prevention rules:
    • There are no sick visitors.
    • Before entering the room, all visitors must wash their hands.
    • Visitors must wear a mask, gloves, and a gown.

What can parents do to help?

A stem cell transplant takes about one year for a child to fully recover. Children can become very sick from infection until then. Even a mild infection like a cold can become serious. Help your child prevent infections

  • Children, their family members, and visitors should wash their hands frequently with antibacterial soap.
  • Do not allow anyone with a sick child near you.
  • Every day, your child should wash his or her body with mild soap and shampoo.

Follow the instructions of your physician for:

  • When your child can attend a school or other public places
  • When your child must wear a mask
  • What foods are safe for your child?
  • If your child is able to be with pets,

What else should I know?

Many children who have received a stem cell transplant experienced a positive change in their lives. It can be difficult for children and their families to manage hospital stays and recovery. Support can be found through family members, your doctor, a counselor, or a social worker. You will be able to take care of your own health and that of your child.

Help your child stay healthy and recover.

  • All follow-up doctor appointments should be attended by your child.
  • Your child’s physical needs can change, such as hair loss or tiredness due to chemotherapy and radiation.
  • Your child can learn how to cope with loneliness when they are away from their family and friends during recovery. Your child can stay in touch with you by setting up FaceTime, Google Hangouts, and Skype.
  • Ask your child if he or she would like to speak to a counselor to help with the emotions that can arise during recovery.
  • Encourage your child to develop a routine that includes light exercise, meals, and other activities such as games or reading.

When should I call the doctor?

If your child is not feeling well, call your doctor immediately.

  • A fever of 100.4degF (38.0degC or more) when taken orally (into the mouth).
  • A runny nose, a cough, or congestion
  • Has vomiting or diarrhea
  • Black bowel movements (poops).
  • Easy bleeding or bruising
  • Is there blood in your pee?
  • Has a headache, dizziness, or blurred vision
  • A nosebleed that doesn’t stop after a few seconds or coughs up blood