graftversushosttautia

Graft-versus-host disease, often abbreviated as GVHD, is a serious and potentially life-threatening complication that can occur after an allogeneic stem cell transplant. This type of transplant involves infusing healthy stem cells from a donor into a patient whose own bone marrow has been damaged or destroyed by disease or treatment. The term "graft-versus-host" refers to the core mechanism of the disease: the transplanted donor immune cells (the graft) recognize the recipient's body (the host) as foreign and attack its tissues.

GVHD can manifest in two main forms: acute and chronic. Acute GVHD typically occurs within the first 100 days post-transplant and commonly affects the skin, liver, and gastrointestinal tract. Symptoms can include rashes, jaundice, and diarrhea. Chronic GVHD, which can develop after 100 days and may persist for months or years, can affect a wider range of organs, including the lungs, eyes, mouth, and joints, leading to symptoms such as dry eyes, mouth sores, and shortness of breath.

The severity of GVHD can range from mild to life-threatening, and its occurrence is influenced by factors like the degree of genetic similarity between the donor and recipient, the type of stem cells used, and the intensity of the conditioning regimen prior to transplant. Immunosuppressive medications are a cornerstone of GVHD prophylaxis and treatment, aiming to dampen the donor immune response. Early detection and management are crucial for improving outcomes in patients undergoing allogeneic stem cell transplantation.