It is important to remember that after receiving your high-dose chemotherapy, you will be immunocompromised. While your blood counts improve shortly before your discharge from the hospital, it is important to remain vigilant in protecting yourself from infection. 

Common infections when the immune system is weakened include: 

Studies have shown that it takes the body’s immune system about three months to get back to its “normal” function after a stem cell transplant. High-dose chemotherapy with or without radiation, and the low blood counts that occur as a result, can lead to complications. These conditions can be treated but have the potential to be life-threatening. A transplant team member will discuss possible complications with you and keep you and your family informed of your progress.

The high-dose chemotherapy has significant effects throughout your body, especially your mucous membranes, from your lips all the way through your digestive tract. You can expect that after 4-5 days, you will lose control of your bowels perhaps at night, and you will not realize it. Plan to have adult diapers or ask for them at the hospital. Also, you will develop diarrhea for a few days, and may be isolated during a test for c-diff.

Lack of Engraftment

Sometimes the new blood cells will not grow in your body. This means they have not successfully “engrafted.” This condition is monitored by blood counts and bone marrow aspirates. If the cells show no signs of engraftment after several weeks, a second transplant may be offered.