Journey of Hematopoietic Cells: Processing to Infusion

Abstract

Hematopoietic cell transplantation is a lifesaving therapy. Almost 20,000 transplants were performed in the United States in 2014. Transplantation is used to treat a wide variety of diseases, most commonly leukemias, lymphomas, multiple myeloma, and certain solid tumors. Hematopoietic graft sources include bone marrow, peripheral blood, and cord blood. To maintain a high-quality product to ensure engraftment and optimal patient outcomes, each step of the process must be performed appropriately, including donor qualification, collection, processing, storage and transportation, and infusion. The entire transplant process, including laboratory and clinical care, is overseen by accrediting and regulatory agencies. Data from the United States are tracked through HRSA (Health Resources and Services Administration) and CIBMTR (Center for International Blood and Marrow Transplant Research). The field continues to improve patient outcomes and expand clinical indications as new processing and medications become available.