Treatments For Childhood Cancer

Stem Cell And Bone Marrow Transplant

Stem cell or bone marrow transplants are other treatment options for childhood cancers. Stem cell transplants occur in two ways. One, stem cells can be harvested from healthy bone marrow (from a donor) and replaces bone marrow containing cancer. These cells will then develop into healthy bone marrow, rather than cancerous marrow. Stem cells can also be harvested from a healthy patient's bloodstream, in which case the procedure is termed a peripheral blood stem cell transplant or simply a stem cell transplant.

There are two main types of transplantation for stem cells. Allogeneic, otherwise referred to as ALLO, uses stem cells another individual donated. Autologous, otherwise referred to as AUTO, uses stem cells curated by the patient. Both have a goal of destroying all cancer cells throughout the body.

Before a doctor recommends a transplant, they will discuss the risks with the patient and their family. Many factors must be considered, including the results of previous treatments, the patient's age, the patient's general health, as well as the type of cancer they're battling.

Continue reading to learn about the next treatment option for childhood cancers.