An Overview Of Stem Cell Replacement

Types Of Transplants

There are three types of stem cell transplants used in the treatment of various conditions and diseases. An autologous stem cell transplant is one that utilizes the receiving patient's own stem cells. With an autologous stem cell transplant, the patient will go through both the collection process and the replacement procedure. An allogeneic stem cell transplant utilizes the stem cells from another individual who is a match to the receiving patient. In order for the donor to be a match, they have to have white blood cell antigens or tags that closely resemble those of the receiving patient. The stem cell donor may be genetically related to the receiving patient, or they could be an individual found through a donor registry system. A syngeneic stem cell transplant is one the utilizes the stem cells of the receiving patient's identical twin. The type of stem cell transplant a patient will undergo depends on several factors including the nature of their disease, their overall health, age, and availability of a donor.

Continue reading to reveal the reasons a stem cell replacement might occur now.