Chronic myelogenous leukemia

Full Answer Section

Protective Effect of Mild to Moderate GVHD

Studies have shown that mild to moderate GVHD can be protective in cancer patients who have had a bone marrow transplant. This is likely due to the following reasons:

• Elimination of residual cancer cells: The donor's immune cells can recognize and attack residual cancer cells that may have been left behind after the transplant.
• Prevention of relapse: GVHD can help to prevent the recurrence of the original cancer.

However, it is important to note that severe GVHD can be life-threatening. Therefore, the goal of treatment is to balance the risk of GVHD with the benefits of the transplant.

References

• [Textbook Reference: Chapter 12, Learning Objectives 1, 2, 10, 11]

Sample Solution

Graft Versus Host Disease (GVHD) and Graft Rejection: A Comparison

Similarities

Graft versus host disease (GVHD) and graft rejection are both immune system reactions that can occur after a bone marrow transplant. In both cases, the immune system recognizes the transplanted cells as foreign and attacks them.

Pathophysiologic Differences

• Graft rejection: This occurs when the recipient's immune system attacks the donor cells. The recipient's T cells recognize the donor's major histocompatibility complex (MHC) antigens as foreign and mount an immune response.
• GVHD: This occurs when the donor's immune cells attack the recipient's tissues. The donor's T cells recognize the recipient's MHC antigens as foreign and mount an immune response.

Clinical Manifestations

• Graft rejection: Symptoms can vary depending on the type of transplant. In a bone marrow transplant, symptoms may include fever, chills, fatigue, and skin rash.
• GVHD: Symptoms can affect multiple organs. Acute GVHD can cause skin rash, fever, diarrhea, and liver inflammation. Chronic GVHD can cause skin thickening, dry eyes, and joint pain.