It is a step in a successful stem cell transplant.
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It is rendered unable to produce healthy red blood cells, platelets, or white blood cells.
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When they are in place and begin to reproduce, engraftment occurs.
The stem cells will create a new hematopoietic andimmune systemfor the recipient.
What Happens During Engraftment
The stem cells or marrow is given as an intravenous transfusion.
It takes about 12 to 15 days following infusion for stem cells to begin to produce new blood cells.
Once production begins, engraftment is said to have occurred.
Your complete blood count will be checked frequently to monitor whether engraftment is happening.
A slow and steady increase in blood cell counts indicates that engraftment is occurring.
Therefore, antibiotics are often prescribed to help prevent infection.
It usually occurs faster for autologous transplants than for donor transplants.
You may also have a bone marrow aspiration to check on how the new marrow is working.
A Word From Verywell
Recovery times vary from person to person.
Some people may need to stay in the hospital longer if problems develop.
In these rare cases, your medical team will talk to you about your options.
National Cancer Institute.Stem cell transplants in cancer treatment.
2017;188(2):242245. doi:10.1667/RR14835.1
Harris DT.Stem cell banking for regenerative and personalized medicine.Biomedicines.
2014;2(1):50-79. doi:10.3390/biomedicines2010050
Lymphoma Research Foundation.The stem cell transplantation process.
2014;124(3):334-343. doi:10.1182/blood-2014-02-514760
