Definition of Stem cell transplantation

Stem cell transplantation: The use of stem cells as a treatment for cancer or other diseases:

1. The stem cells are removed (or obtained) from a donor.
2. Before a transplant is done for cancer, the patient receives high-dose chemotherapy and/or radiation to destroy the malignant cells.
3. The stem cells are then given to the patient in whom they can produce new blood and immune cells and replace the cells destroyed by the treatment.

The stem-cell preparation is infused into a vein and, once in the bloodstream, the stem cells act like homing pigeons and head straight for the bone marrow space.