A deficiency in red blood cells, leading to tiredness and lack of energy.
The process of collecting blood from a donor, removing one or more blood components (plasma, blood platelets, or white blood cells), and then returning the remaining blood back to the donor through transfusion.
Cells obtained when the same individual is donor and recipient.
Stem cell transplant using a patient’s own stem cells.
A soft sponge-like tissue in the middle of all your bones that contains lots of blood vessels: red blood cells, most white blood cells, and platelets.
A tubular device typically inserted into a large vein in the neck. A CVC can also be inserted into the chest or the groin. A CVC is used to administer multiple medications, intravenous fluids, and to draw blood samples to perform tests.
A treatment that your doctor may utilize which uses chemotherapy (typically followed by growth factor) as a catalyst to move stem cells from bone marrow to circulating blood.
A chemical preservative used to protect stem cells during the freezing process, preventing the cells from collapsing and dying.
The process by which collected stem cells received during transplant start to grow and make new blood cells. The definition of engraftment in transplant is very specific and relates to a neutrophil and platelet count recovery. Neutrophil engraftment is defined as the first day of three consecutive days where the neutrophil count (absolute neutrophil count) is 500 cells/mm3 (0.5 x 109/L) or greater. Platelet engraftment is defined as 20,000/mm3 (20 x 109/L) unsupported by a platelet transfusion.
Also known as growth factors, are molecules that stimulate white cell growth.
Substances that stimulate cell growth.
Relating to the formation of blood or blood cells.
An infusion of stem cells into a recipient’s bloodstream; in cancer patients, usually performed after high-intensity chemotherapy and/or radiation in order to restore healthy levels of blood cells.
Occurs when new, infused stem cells begin traveling through the circulatory system and to the bone marrow.
Also known as white blood cells, these cells fight the bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other substances that cause infection.
A condition where the patient has elevated white blood cells in the blood.
The process of stimulating stem cells to move out of the bone marrow and into the bloodstream for collection.
The inflammation of the mucous membranes lining the digestive tract, including the mouth, the windpipe, the stomach, and the anus.
A sudden fall in blood pressure when a person stands up from the sitting position.
Stem cells that leave the bone marrow and circulate in the bloodstream.
Infusion of stem cells obtained from the peripheral blood.
A tiny disc-shaped blood fragment that assists in forming blood clots; essential to prevent excessive bleeding.
Cells that carry oxygen to the body’s tissues and carbon dioxide away from the tissues.
An oblong-shaped organ situated between the heart and stomach that plays a role in the final destruction of red blood cells, filtration and storage of blood, and production of lymphocytes.
Very young cells that mature into the functional components of your bloodstream, like red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets, and help you recover from the marrow suppressive effects of high doses of chemotherapy and radiation.
An injection delivered under the skin.
A condition where there are not enough platelets in the blood. Thrombocytopenia is likely to occur following a stem cell transplant and increases your chance of bleeding.
Cells in the immune system that fight bacteria, viruses, and fungi that cause infection.