When do the donor stem cells get harvested?

How are stem cells infused?

What is T-cell depletion?

How long can stem cells be stored?

When is the best time for stem cells to be harvested?

Do I have to get rid of my pets?

When do the donor stem cells get harvested?
The stem cells are harvested the day the patient receives them. If the stem cells are from an unrelated donor, a courier delivers the stem cells to the transplant center the day the recipient receives it. Umbilical cord blood cells are collected after a baby is born (from the placenta, not from the newborn).  They are frozen and stored in a cord blood bank until they are needed for a patient's transplant.  Autologous stem cells are collected from the patient before the transplant and frozen.  They are thawed and infused on the day of transplant.

How are stem cells infused?
The stem cells are generally infused through the intravenous (IV) catheter. This is similar to a blood transfusion. The catheter is also used to give the patient medicines and other fluids.

How long can stem cells be stored?
Indefinitely, or at least for a few years. Currently, most transplant centers only harvest and store stem cells for patients who will need a blood or marrow transplant.

What is T-cell depletion?
There are various methods used to remove T-cell lymphocytes from the collected cells. It is used as a means to prevent graft-versus-host disease. The use of T-cell depletion varies depending on diagnosis, type of transplant and transplant center.  This process is not used with cord blood. It is one of several techniques to help prevent graft versus host disease (GVHD) after the transplant.

When is the best time for stem cells to be harvested?
This depends on the clinical scenario--what disease is being treated? is the bone marrow involved?, etc.

Do I have to get rid of my pets?
Policies about people keeping their pets post-transplant vary by center. Some centers allow you to keep your pets provided you exercise caution--careful handwashing--after spending time with them. Do not change cat litter boxes or purchase any new pets during your first 100 days post transplant. Check with your BMT center about any questions you may have regarding pets.