Bone marrow transplantation in sickle cell anemia - the dilemma of choice
Article Abstract:
Bone marrow transplants may essentially cure sickle cell anemia, but eligible patients need to be carefully selected. In a 1996 study of 22 sickle cell patients who received a bone marrow transplant, 15 were cured of the disease. However, bone marrow transplantation and the accompanying chemotherapy are not without risks. The treatment can lead to infertility, graft-versus-host disease, cancer from the immunosuppression and death. Many children would have a greater chance of dying from the treatment than from the disease itself.
Publication Name: The New England Journal of Medicine
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0028-4793
Year: 1996
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Neoplasms and transplantation - trading swords for plowshares
Article Abstract:
It may be possible to reduce the risk of cancer in people who receive organ transplants. Patients who receive bone marrow transplants must be treated with chemotherapy and radiation, which could predispose them to cancer at a later time. Patients who receive organ transplants must take immunosuppressive drugs to prevent organ rejection. This immunosuppression may predispose them to cancer. Bone marrow transplantation can lead to excellent survival rates, so techniques are needed to reduce the risk of cancer in marrow recipients.
Publication Name: The New England Journal of Medicine
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0028-4793
Year: 1997
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