Types of Stem Cell Transplants

Allogeneic transplant — During an allogeneic stem cell transplant, doctors collect stem cells from a donor whose cell markers (human leukocyte antigens, or HLA markers) match those of the recipient. Such HLA-matched donors can be a non-identical twin or sibling, other close family member or a matched unrelated donor. After undergoing therapy, the patient is transplanted with the donor stem cells.

Autologous transplant — During an autologous stem cell transplant, stem cells are harvested from the patient before they receive chemotherapy and/or radiation therapy to treat a cancer. These stem cells may be purified and purged of any tumor cells that might be collected with them. After undergoing therapy, the patient receives his/her own stem cells.

Syngeneic transplant — This transplant process is similar to an allogeneic transplant, except that stem cells are taken from an identical twin, whose HLA markers are identical to those of the patient.

The choice between an autologous or allogeneic transplant depends on the disease state, the availability of a suitable donor and a risk/benefit analysis for each patient. Additionally, patients may receive outpatient stem cell transplantation or inpatient stem cell transplantation.