The Complete Patient’s Guide to Autologous Stem Cell Transplant (ASCT) image

The Complete Patient’s Guide to Autologous Stem Cell Transplant (ASCT)

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HealthTree

Last updated and reviewed on: March 23, 2025

Thinking about a stem cell transplant? Learn what to expect before, during, and after the procedure with this easy-to-understand guide for patients and caregivers. Empower your journey with expert tips and real insights with this guide made from patients for patients!

Introduction

Discover how to navigate the SCT Guide.

Pre-Transplant

Learn what pre-transplant is and how to prepare

Getting Organized

Getting Organized for SCT

Choosing a Transplant Center

Learn how to choose a transplant center

Your Transplant Team

Choose your Transplant Team

Types of Transplants

Learn more about how many transplant types are out there.

Pre-transplant Eligibility Screening

Discover how you can be assessed to know if you are eligible for receiving a transplant

Housing Arrangements

Learn how housing arrangements work

Radiation Therapy

Discover what radiation therapy can do for you

Preparation Checklist

What you need to prepare for SCT

Further Preparation Support

Further Preparation Support

Communication with Family and Friends

Communication with Family and Friends

Stem Cell Collection

Stem Cell Collection

Mobilization and Collection Phase

Mobilization and Collection Phase

Preparing Your Body for Transplant with Chemotherapy

Preparing Your Body for Transplant with Chemotherapy

Outpatient vs. Inpatient Autologous Stem Cell Transplant

Outpatient vs. Inpatient Stem Cell Transplant (ASCT)

Choosing Between Inpatient & Outpatient SCT

Choosing Between Inpatient & Outpatient SCT

ASCT Outpatient Process

ASCT Outpatient Process

ASCT Inpatient Process

ASCT Inpatient Process

The Engraftment Phase

The Engraftment Phase

Possible Complications

Possible Complications of Engraftment

Managing Side Effects

Managing Side Effects of SCT

Infection

Infection Risks in SCT

Heart and Lung Problems

Heart and Lung Problems

Digestive Issues (Nausea, Vomiting and Diarrhea)

Gastrointestinal issues (nausea, vomiting and diarrhea) in stem cell transplant

Fatigue

Hair Loss

Hair Loss in SCT

Additional Common ASCT Side Effects and Management

Additional Common ASCT Side Effects and Management

Post-Transplant

30 Days After Autologous Stem Cell Transplant

Preparing for Discharge

Preparing for discharge after sct

First 30 Days Post-Transplant

Initial Post-transplant (First 30 days)

Post-Transplant Diet: Eating Safely During Recovery

Post-ASCT Diet: Eating Safely During Recovery

Children at Home During and After Transplant

How to explain the stem cell transplant to children? How to interact with kids during transplant recovery?

Additional Post-Transplant Precautions

What else should you consider after undergoing a stem cell transplant?

Long-Term Considerations: What to Expect at 100 Days Post-Transplant

Long-Term Considerations of SCT

Dealing with Ongoing Side Effects

The chemotherapy you received before transplant can have some long-lasting side effects. Learn more here.

Follow-Up Testing and Maintenance Therapy

Monitoring your health in the long term. Should you consider maintenance therapy after transplant?

Adjusting to Life After ASCT

Adjusting to Life After ASCT

Self-Care After Transplant

Self-Care After ASCT

Additional Health Considerations

Additional Health Considerations

Returning to Work

Returning to Work

Caregiver Responsibilities

Caregiver Responsibilities

Transplant for Patients Over 60

Patients Over 60

Undergoing a Transplant Without a Full-Time Caregiver

Can you still undergo a stem cell transplant without a full-time caregiver?

General Recommendations

General Recommendations

Preparing for the Inpatient ASCT Procedure

Preparing for the Inpatient ASCT Procedure

Preparing for Post-Transplant Recovery

Preparing for Post-ASCT Recovery

The Whole Picture: Your Wellbeing

The Whole Picture: Your Wellbeing

The Role Your Emotions Play Pre-Transplant

The Role Your Emotions Play Pre-Transplant

The Role Your Emotions Play during Your Transplant

The Role Your Emotions Play during Your Transplant

The Role Your Emotions Play Post-Transplant

The Role Your Emotions Play Post-Transplant

Additional Considerations for Your Wellbeing

Additional Considerations for Your Wellbeing

Mind and Body

Exercise: Staying Strong During & After ASCT

Exercise: Staying Strong During & After ASCT

Understanding and Managing the Costs of ASCT

Understanding and Managing the Costs of ASCT By Diahanna Vallentine, BCPA

Key Steps to Prepare for ASCT Financially

Key Steps to Prepare for ASCT Financially

What to Do If Your Insurance Denies ASCT Coverage

What to Do If Your Insurance Denies ASCT Coverage

Managing Prescription Costs & Other Expenses

Managing Prescription Costs & Other Expenses

The Reality of Financial Toxicity in ASCT

The Reality of Financial Toxicity in ASCT

Essential Financial Planning Checklist

Essential Financial Planning Checklist

Resources

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