Previous Section
Treatment Options for Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma
Stem Cell Transplantation in Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma
GVHD can develop within the first 3 months following allogeneic stem cell transplantation (acute GVHD) or it may develop after 3 months (chronic GVHD). Symptoms of acute GVHD include:
- Itchy, red rash on the hands and feet
- Nausea, diarrhea, and severe stomach cramps
- Jaundice (due to liver damage)
The chronic form of GVHD can be very severe and disabling and, in some cases, may even be fatal. Patients who develop GVHD are treated with various combinations of immunosuppressive drugs such as cyclosporine, methotrexate, and corticosteroids.
In addition to GVHD, other potential complications of bone marrow transplantation include recurrent infections, interstitial pneumonitis, graft failure or rejection, veno-occlusive disease (complete blockage of the central veins of the liver leading to liver damage), and recurrence of the cancer following transplantation.
