Allogeneic bone marrow transplant is a medical procedure in which healthy bone marrow cells obtained from a genetically compatible donor are transplanted into a recipient to replace damaged or diseased bone marrow. It is also known as allogenic hematopoietic stem cell transplant.
Bone marrow is a spongy tissue found inside bones that produces various blood cells, including red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. When the recipient's bone marrow is diseased or severely damaged due to conditions such as leukemia, lymphoma, or certain inherited disorders, an allogeneic bone marrow transplant becomes necessary.
In this procedure, the donor's bone marrow cells are collected through a surgical procedure called bone marrow harvest or from peripheral blood stem cells obtained by apheresis. The donor is typically a compatible sibling, but if a sibling is not available, an unrelated donor can be used. Prior to the transplant, the recipient undergoes conditioning therapy, which may involve chemotherapy and/or radiation, to eliminate any remaining abnormal cells in their bone marrow.
During the transplant, the donated cells are infused into the recipient's bloodstream through a needle inserted into a vein. The transplanted cells then migrate to the recipient's bone marrow, where they start to produce healthy blood cells, gradually replacing the diseased cells.
Allogeneic bone marrow transplant aims to restore the recipient's blood cell production, immune system function, and overall health. However, the procedure carries risks such as graft-versus-host disease, where the transplanted cells may attack the recipient's tissues and organs. Strict medical monitoring and post-transplant care are crucial to ensure the transplant's success and minimize complications.
