Global Health Asia-Pacific Issue 1 | 2024 | Page 37

SPONSORED FEATURE

Bone marrow transplantation , or blood stem cell transplantation as is it commonly known now , is one of the amazing medical treatments of the last century . It was first developed in the 1�50s , but it has since developed into a transformative life-saving procedure which has been used more than 1.5 million times worldwide�

Bone marrow transplantation is used for the treatment of patients with blood cancers such as leukaemia , lymphoma , myeloma and germ cell tumours . It is also utilised for the treatment of patients with non-cancer conditions as well , such as thalassemia , aplastic anaemia , and in some autoimmune conditions such as multiple sclerosis .

There are two main types of stem cell transplants . They are autologous and allogeneic stem cell transplants .

Autologous Stem Cell Transplantation The stem cells used for an autologous transplant are collected from the patient ’ s own body . This is sometimes done because intensive chemotherapy or radiation therapy treatment can damage the stem cells and immune system . Therefore , doctors may remove and store stem cells prior to cancer treatment .

After chemotherapy , these stem cells are returned to the body to help build and restore the immune system and body ’ s ability to produce blood cells and fight infection .

Allogeneic Stem Cell Transplantation The stem cells used in an allogenic stem cell transplant are taken from a donor . Allogeneic stem cell transplantation is commonly used for treating aggressive forms of acute leukaemia and myelodysplastic syndromes . It is also used for the treatment of aplastic anaemia , red cell disorders ( such as thalassemia ) as well as in some cases of lymphoma and myeloma .

�o� do �e �nd a �atched donor �or allogeneic bone marrow transplantation ? Donors and patients are matched based on their HLA typing ( Human Leucocyte Antigen ). HLA molecules are present on our white cells , and are important in affecting the degree of rejection between donor and patient . HLA typing is a simple test that is performed on donor and patients using a blood test , or using a cheek swab ( rubbing a cotton swab on the inner side of the check ).

In most cases , an ideal donor and patient match is when the HLA typing is 10�10 matched ( or 12�12 matched ).

How long are patients admitted for a bone marrow transplantation ? Patients receiving an autologous or allogeneic bone marrow transplantation will require chemotherapy to empty the bone marrow before the stem cells are infused . As patients will have a suppressed immune system , they are usually kept in hospital for a period of 3-4 weeks through the transplant until their immune system starts to recover .

Centre for Clinical Haematology , Singapore If you ’ re looking for in-depth information and guidance on bone marrow transplants , we invite you to reach out to us at the Centre for Clinical Haematology , Singapore . Our renowned expert , Dr . Lim Zi Yi , is a leading authority in the field of bone marrow transplants . With years of experience in United Kingdom and Singapore , and a strong track record of successful procedures , Dr . Lim Zi Yi possesses the knowledge and expertise to address your questions and concerns . Whether you ’ re interested in understanding the transplant process , exploring donor options , or discussing potential outcomes , our team , led by Dr . Lim Zi �i , is here to provide you with comprehensive support . Contact us at the Centre for Clinical Haematology to schedule a consultation and gain valuable insights into bone marrow transplants . �our journey towards improved health starts with us .

Bone marrow transplantation is used for the treatment of patients with blood cancers such as leukaemia , lymphoma , myeloma and germ cell tumours .

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