Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation: Graft-versus-Host Disease

• What Is Graft-versus-Host Disease (GVHD)?

  GVHD develops when donor immune cells recognize and attack normal recipient tissues after allo-HSCT. It can damage the skin, intestines, liver, lungs, and other organs.

  View FAQs ›

• How Is Graft-versus-Host Disease Classified?

  GVHD is broadly divided into acute and chronic forms. Acute disease commonly affects the skin, intestines, and liver early after transplant, while chronic disease often occurs later and may affect many systems.

  View FAQs ›

• What Are the Risk Factors for Acute GVHD?

  Acute GVHD risk is related to immune differences between donor and recipient and may be influenced by HLA compatibility, age, prior transfusions, and infection status.

  View FAQs ›

• How Is Graft-versus-Host Disease Treated?

  Treatment is individualized according to whether GVHD is acute or chronic, its severity, and the organs involved.

  View FAQs ›

• Is Developing GVHD Always a Bad Sign?

  GVHD is a complex immune response after allo-HSCT. It can damage normal tissues and require treatment, while some donor immune activity may contribute to the GVL/GVT effect.

  View FAQs ›

• What Are the Symptoms of Intestinal GVHD?

  Intestinal GVHD can cause diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, and, in severe cases, blood in the stool. However, digestive symptoms after transplant are not always caused by GVHD.

  View FAQs ›

• What Are the Symptoms of Chronic Pulmonary GVHD?

  Chronic pulmonary GVHD is a manifestation of chronic GVHD affecting the lungs and may cause cough, shortness of breath, and reduced exercise tolerance. Symptoms can be subtle early on.

  View FAQs ›