自体干细胞移植英语定义

　　

What is Autologous Stem Cell Transplantation?

　　Autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) is a medical procedure in which a patients own stem cells are collected, stored, and then re-infused into the patients body after high-dose chemotherapy or radiation therapy. This process aims to treat various cancerous and non-cancerous conditions by replacing damaged or destroyed cells that the patients body is unable to produce on its own.

　　

How does ASCT work?

　　The ASCT procedure begins with stem cell collection, which typically involves extracting blood from the patient and then separating the stem cells through a process known as apheresis. Alternatively, stem cells can also be harvested from bone marrow through a surgical procedure. Once harvested, the stem cells are stored until the patient undergoes chemotherapy or radiation therapy.

　　High-dose chemotherapy and radiation therapy are used to eradicate cancerous or defective cells from the patients body. Unfortunately, healthy cells are also destroyed as part of this process. Therefore, the reintroduction of previously harvested and stored stem cells is critical for the patients survival. The stem cells that are infused in the patients bloodstream migrate to the bone marrow, where they produce new blood cells, thereby creating a fresh supply of oxygen-carrying red blood cells, infection-fighting white blood cells, and blood platelets that help stop bleeding.

　　

Why is ASCT important?

　　ASCT is essential for patients who have blood-related diseases such as leukemia, multiple myeloma, and lymphoma. For these patients, ASCT can mean prolonged remission and higher chances of survival. ASCT is also used to treat non-cancerous conditions, such as autoimmune disorders, scleroderma, and arthritis. By resetting the patients immune system, ASCT can effectively alleviate symptoms and improve overall quality of life.

　　

What are the risks and benefits of ASCT?

　　Like any medical procedure, ASCT has both potential risks and advantages. The primary benefit of ASCT is that it offers patients a chance for prolonged remission and in some cases, a cure. Patients who undergo ASCT have a higher chance of surviving for a more extended period than those who do not. Additionally, ASCT has been shown to improve the quality of life for patients suffering from certain non-cancerous conditions.

　　However, ASCT also carries certain risks, including a higher likelihood of infection due to the patients decreased immune system. Additionally, there is a slightly higher risk of developing secondary cancers post-ASCT. Some patients may also experience long-term complications such as infertility or thyroid dysfunction.

　　

Conclusion

　　In conclusion, autologous stem cell transplantation is a lifesaving procedure that uses the patients own cells to replace damaged cells and tissues. This procedure offers patients with blood-related diseases a higher chance of long-term remission and in some cases, a cure. While ASCT carries a few potential risks, these are outweighed by the benefits it offers. ASCT is a crucial advance in medical science that has transformed the lives of millions of people worldwide.