Bone Marrow Transplantation(Bmt) For All

I'm undergoing chemo for ALL, it goes well, now I'm thinking about BMT for the cure, but it's a difficult decision. Risky as it is, I wonder if anyone can provide any advice on the following:
1. which center is the most experienced in handling ALL patients' BMT?
2. if you or someone you know have gone through BMT, what are the factors that led to your decision? How's the result?
Thanks a lot.

Ininial chemotherapy will generally get a remission in 80% of patients. The key to BMT is your age (<55 is best) and suitable donors. An ideal donor is an identical twin and from there a closly matched sibling will do. Problems with poor matches include graft vs host disease which can be fatal. Autologus transplants (your own cells) have no GvHD but often have relapsed ALL. If you do decide to do it check for a center that does more than 5 transplants per year. They have better results than those who do less.

Dear Angie:

I have just now read your posting regarding BMT for a cure and where a great place to go for treatment.

My husband just finished his 2 year treatment plan for ALL.

He was going to have a BMT last year, but thankfully he did not have to endure that one.

We have had the most unbelieveble positive experiences with Scripps Hospital in La Jolla Calif. (San Diego) As far as a BMT specialist...he is at Scripps Green Hospital in La Jolla.

James Mason, M.D., director of the Scripps Blood and Marrow Transplant Center at Scripps Green Hospital. Dr. Mason also serves as director of the Stem Cell Collection Program and the Stem Cell Processing Laboratory

Out of curiosity...why are you considering a BMT vs. Not? Have you gone through the chemo protocal treatment plan or are you are you wanting to bypass that?

Hi Beth,

Congratulations on your hubby's graduation from any chemo!!!
I just came back from Seattle, for a BMT consultation at the Fred Hutchinson center. They don't think I need one at the moment... So I'll go ahead with the maint. after I finish my last round of chemo next week.

Dear Fight ALL:

That is great news about not needing a BMT. I have heard that F.Hutchinson is a fantastic hospital. You are in good hands. If I may ask, how long have you been in treatment? Have you reached remission?

Live Strong

Beth