Who Can Undergo a Stem Cell Transplant?

A stem cell transplant is a rigorous medical procedure. Several tests and exams over the course of several days will help determine whether you are healthy enough for a transplant.

Your transplant team will consider your:

• age
• general physical condition
• diagnosis
• stage of your disease
• prior treatment history

Tests on your heart, lungs, kidneys, and other vital organs will be done prior to transplant to ensure you can tolerate the procedure. The tests typically include:

• MUGA scan/echocardiogram/EKG to measure your heart function
• pulmonary function test to measure the health of your lungs
• chest x-ray/CT scan to check for lung problems and infection
• tests to check the status of your disease
• complete physical exam and health history
• dental exam
• blood work and urine tests to measure
  • blood counts
  • kidney function
  • liver function
  • past exposure to infectious diseases

Your transplant team will also evaluate your psychological health and ensure that you have a caregiver to support you during and after treatment. Click here to learn more about caregiver responsibilities.

A financial counselor will review your insurance and request pre-approval from your insurance provider to cover the costs of the transplant. Click here to learn more about insurance and transplants.

Next Page: Preparing for Transplant