What is GVL in transplant?

What is GVL in transplant?

Graft-versus-leukemia (GVL) is a major component of the overall beneficial effects of allogeneic bone marrow transplantation (BMT) in the treatment of leukemia.

What are complications of hematopoietic stem cell transplantation?

Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation is a recognized treatment for hematological diseases such as leukemia and lymphoma, certain solid organ tumors, and a limited number of immunologic disorders. The major risks associated with this procedure are infections and development of graft-vs-host disease.

Can autologous transplant cause GVHD?

Multiple myeloma (MM) is the most common indication for autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) in North America. Despite occurring in up to 50% of patients undergoing allogeneic HSCT, the incidence of graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) after autologous HSCT is reportedly only 5-20%.

In which type of transplant is graft versus leukemic cells possible?

GVL is most easily obtained in patients who have been transplanted for CML, although patients with AML and ALL may also experience a GVL effect (AML usually more than ALL). Thus, GVL constitutes an important part of the antileukemic effect of transplantation, particularly for CML and AML.

What are the downsides of using allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplant?

The graft may fail to grow or be rejected in the patient resulting in bone marrow failure with the absence of red blood cell, white blood cell and platelet production. This results in infection, anemia and bleeding.

Why does GVHD affect skin?

Chronic GVHD of the skin happens when the donor’s cells attack your skin. It is the most common type of chronic GVHD. Chronic GVHD of the skin can cause color changes (red, pink, purple, brown or white), thinning or thickening, hardening, rashes, scaly areas, bumps, sores or blisters (small pockets of fluid).

Why is allograft transplantation done?

The most common type of allograft transplants is musculoskeletal allograft transplants. This ties in with one of the main reasons that allograft transplants are used: synthetic materials can have different properties from biologically human tissue and may be unsuitable for the intended use.

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