adult blood
and marrow
stem cell
post transplant
After the transplant, patients continue recovering. Post-transplant recipients are followed closely in the transplant clinic on a daily basis. For several weeks, the patient may still feel too weak to fully engage in normal activities. However, it is important to continue participating in daily activities as tolerated to increase strength and energy. Short walks are recommended, slowly increasing the distance every few days. Transplant professionals assist the transplant physician in helping the patient manage post-transplant symptoms and help the patient return to normal daily activities.
The chances of infection and rejection are highest during the first month post-transplant when the medications taken to suppress the immune system have their most profound effect. Patients must avoid large crowds and contact with unhealthy persons. Sometimes, patients may be required to wear a mask to limit the risk of infection that could lead to rejection. While patients receiving an autologous transplant do not receive immunosuppressive drugs, they too must take proper caution to minimize infections.
Allogeneic transplant recipients are at risk for developing Graft-Versus-Host-Disease (GVHD). With this condition, the new bone marrow stem cells begin fighting against, or "rejecting" the patient's tissues.
Acute GVHD can occur 20 to 60 days post-transplant, whereas
chronic GVHD may occur three to six months later. To minimize the risk of GVHD, patients are prescribed immunosuppressive or “anti-rejection” medications. These medications help prevent the new bone marrow stem cells to accept the patient’s immune system and must be taken in strict compliance with physicians orders.
Transplant patients are required to have routine follow-up visits with the transplant physician in the transplant clinic. The frequency of those visits will be discussed at the time of transplant. You will be informed when you are able to return to your oncologist for continued care.
All resources available to the patient and family pre-transplant, including but not limited to the oncology support group, social worker, dietitian, financial coordinator, and hospital chaplain, are also available on an unlimited basis post-transplant.
Our medical, social, and financial specialists are always available to answer any questions and provide assistance following transplantation.