Hodgkin Lymphoma Stem Cell Transplantation
If Hodgkin lymphoma returns after treatment, you may receive stem cell transplantation. A transplant of your own blood-forming stem cells (autologous stem cell transplantation) allows you to receive high doses of chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or both. The high doses destroy both Hodgkin lymphoma cells and healthy blood cells in the bone marrow.
Stem cell transplants take place in the hospital. Before you receive high-dose treatment, your stem cells are removed and may be treated to kill lymphoma cells that may be present. Your stem cells are frozen and stored. After you receive high-dose treatment to kill Hodgkin lymphoma cells, your stored stem cells are thawed and given back to you through a flexible tube placed in a large vein in your neck or chest area. New blood cells develop from the transplanted stem cells.
You may want to ask the doctor these questions before having a stem cell transplant:
- What are the possible benefits and risks of a stem cell transplant?
- How long will I need to be in the hospital? Will I need special care? How will I be protected from germs?
- What can we do about side effects?
- How will having a stem cell transplant affect my normal activities?
- What is my chance of a full recovery?
