Bone marrow transplantation as treatment
For some time, bone marrow transplantation has been the
treatment of choice for relapsed leukemia patients. However, the
role of bone marrow transplantation in the treatment of children
with other forms of cancer, blood diseases and genetic disorders
of immunology and metabolism has increased dramatically in the
last few years. The Bone Marrow and Stem Cell Transplant
Program is expanding the use of this technique for patients with
solid tumors including neuroblastoma and brain tumors; a
variety of high-risk hematologic diseases, such as thalassemia
major and transfusion-dependent sickle cell disease; and other
nonmalignant diseases.
In addition, the Cell and Gene Therapy (CAGT) Program at Texas
Children’s Hospital, Baylor College of Medicine andThe Methodist
Hospital helps rapidly translate novel cell and gene therapy protocols
from the laboratory to the clinic. In particular, Texas Children’s is
able to make genetic and molecular diagnoses in conjunction
with the CAGT Program, as well as administer cell-based therapies.
Patient comfort
As patient comfort is a priority, we employ new approaches to care
that provide patients with more mobility and access to activities
during their stay. A specialized high-efficiency particulate air
(HEPA) filtration system allows patients to leave their rooms and
participate in social functions on the unit.
high rate of donor matches
We have virtually 100 percent success finding a donor for every
patient needing stem cell transplantation. If a perfect match is
unavailable, we are able to perform cord blood transplants or
use donors other than perfectly matched siblings, such as parents.
One of our main goals is to consistently expand our donor pool in
order to provide patients the best possible transplantation options.
research
As one of the top programs for cell-based therapies, our research
focuses on improving transplantation outcomes by reducing or
avoiding infection or relapses.Another component of our research
looks at viral-specific cells to see how we can ensure patients’
cells have short and long term immunity.
referrals
Referring physicians may call the Bone Marrow and Stem Cell
Transplant Program at 832-822-4242 or 1-800-226-2379.
For more information, please visit
txch.org/cancer-center/bone-marrow-transplant.
Texas Children’s CanCerand hemaTology CenTers
Bone marrow and
stem CellTransplant Program
Texas Children’s Cancer Center is a premier bone marrow and stem cell transplantation program.
Our state-of-the-art, 15-bed inpatient transplant unit is among the largest of its kind in the
United States and focuses exclusively on transplantation.
txch.org/cancer-center/bone-marrow-transplant
