Stem Cell
Transplant: Why Does
Second
Cancer Risk
Rise
?
Lifesaving
But At What Cost?
Stem cell transplants save lives, yet immune suppression and pre transplant treatments can raise secondary cancer risk.
Autologous
vs.
Allogeneic:
What Changes Risk?
Your own cells vs. donor cells. Donor match and immunosuppression levels influence post transplant cancer risk.
Most Common: AML and MDS
Intense chemo/radiation can lead to AML or MDS years later. Early, regular screening is critical.
Lymphomas
and
the PTLD Threat
Allogeneic transplants and EBV increase risks of PTLD and Non‑Hodgkin/Hodgkin lymphomas.
Solid
Tumors
on the Radar
Elevated risks include skin (squamous cell, melanoma), oral cavity, thyroid, lung, breast, and colorectal cancers.
Conditioning Damage
Radiation and chemotherapy can damage DNA. Stronger regimens work but may boost later cancer risk.
The
Why
:
Timeline:
0-1
,
1-5
,
5+
Years
PTLD risk peaks early; lymphomas rise at 1-5 years; solid tumors grow beyond 5 years. Long term follow up matters.
Your Screening
Roadmap
Regular exams, CBCs, imaging, and skin/oral checks. Report fever, bleeding, or new symptoms promptly.
Can You
Lower
the Risk?
Tailored, reduced intensity protocols, healthy diet, exercise, sun protection, and selective prophylaxis help.
Balancing
Benefit
and
Risk
Transplants are lifesaving. With informed choices and vigilant surveillance, outcomes improve decide with your care team.
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