The term “stem cell transplant” is not often heard. When it is, the average person often doesn't know what it means. In order to understand what a stem cell transplant is, you first need to know what a stem cell is.
Understanding what a stem cell is and what is does is relatively simple. A stem cell has the extraordinary potential to develop into many different cell types in the body. It serves as a repair system for the body. Theoretically, it can divide without limit in order to replenish other cells, as long as the person (or animal) in which the cell resides is still alive.
But what happens when a stem cell divides? Well, when a stem cell divides it creates new cells, each of which has the potential to remain a stem cell, or go on to become another type of cell. If the new cell goes on to become another kind of cell, it will normally have a very specialized function, such as a red blood cell, a muscle cell, or a brain cell.
A stem cell transplant can often be done to combat diseases and conditions such as leukemia. In the National Marrow Donor Program (NMDP) almost seventy five percent of stem cell transplant operations are done for this reason.
Blood stem cell donors are always in demand. The three sources of blood stem cells are peripheral (circulating) blood, bone marrow, and blood collected from the placenta and umbilical cord after a baby is born.
If a transplant is to be successful, the matching of the un-related donor's and patient's tissue type must be carefully carried out. Of course, the best source for a donor would be a brother or sister of the patient. With a close family link, chances that the match will be successful are twenty-five percent higher. If the attempt to find a relative whose tissue matches fails, an unrelated donor must be used.
Once a match is found, the transplant physician will ask the donor's doctor for a peripheral blood or bone marrow sample. Once this step is established, the donor will be contacted to find out whether they are still willing and able to donate. If the answer is yes, then a physical examination is arranged to ensure that the donor is in good health, and that they are safe to donate.
Once the patient has undergone their chemotherapy, and/or radiation treatment, to destroy their diseased cells, the donated stem cells are injected straight into the patient's bloodstream. If the operation is a success, then the stem cells will travel to the marrow. Here, they will begin to function normally, and multiply…just as if they were the patient's own.
Getting a transplant and giving a donation of stem cells can be lifesaving. It can also lead to a little discomfort. Donors normally complain of headaches, bone and muscle aches, or nausea and fatigue whilst receiving injections. However, most of them say it's worth it in order to try to save somebody else's life.
If you are so inclined, it might be a good idea to check out whether you could become a stem cell donor. You never know, someone you know might need it someday.
By Fiona McLaren