Role of Bone Marrow Transplantation in thalassemia
The bone marrow transplantation is also called Hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT). This is the potential cure for severe form of thalassemia. However, it is not very easy because of multiple reasons. The most important reason is it is difficult to find a suitable bone marrow donor. Moreover, the procedure for bone marrow transplantation is very challenging and whole process is very expensive.
HCT involves destruction of thalassemia-producing cells in the bone marrow of the patients with help of chemotherapies and replaces them with normal blood stem cells from a healthy donor. This therapy should be considered for all patients who have a suitable donor. Early referral to a transplant center is recommended, as HCT has a better outcome in younger patients.
- International Bone Marrow Centers for thalassemia