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A stem cell transplant is when doctors put healthy stem cells into someone's bloodstream to replace their stem cells.
It can take a while to feel better after a stem cell transplant, but the treatment can be very helpful for some illnesses.
Stem cells are cells that can develop into many different types of cells. The stem cells used for transplants form blood cells. They become:
Stem cell transplants can help people with:
Doctors can get the stem cells from the:
A person who provides the stem cells is a donor. For some illnesses, people can be their own donor. Their stem cells are taken out, frozen, and transplanted back later. Other times, someone else donates the stem cells.
When stem cells come from another person, the stem cells must have similar genetic makeup. Usually, a child's brother or sister is a good match. A parent or even an unrelated person sometimes can be a match.
If the donor stem cells are not a good match (and sometimes even if they are):
Before a stem cell transplant, doctors place a central line (or central venous catheter). This type of IV (intravenous) line goes into the skin and into a large vein near the heart. A central line can stay in the body longer than a regular IV. It gives the medical team a way to give medicines and collect blood for testing without doing a lot of needle sticks.
Stem cell transplants are done in the hospital. First, the person getting the donated stem cells has high doses of chemotherapy and/or radiation to:
Then, the person gets the donor stem cells through an intravenous line (IV).
After someone has a stem cell transplant, their body needs time to make new red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. During this time, they're at a higher risk for infections, bleeding, and other problems.
Most people stay in the hospital for 3–5 weeks after the transplant. Their medical team will:
It takes a child's immune system about a year to recover after a stem cell transplant. Until then, kids can get very sick from infections. Even a mild infection, like a cold, can be serious. To help your child avoid infections:
Follow your medical team's instructions for:
Most kids who have had a stem cell transplant feel better over time after they leave the hospital. It's a lot for a child and family to manage the hospital stay and the recovery period. Find support through other family members, your medical team, a counselor, or social worker. Taking care of yourself will help you take care of your child.
To help your child recover and stay healthy:
Call your doctor right away if your child:
Note: All information is for educational purposes only. For specific medical advice, diagnoses, and treatment, consult your doctor.
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