Chronic graft versus host disease (cGVHD) is a serious and potentially life-threatening complication of bone marrow or stem cell transplantation. It occurs when the transplanted cells attack the recipient’s body, leading to a wide range of symptoms and complications. Understanding cGVHD is essential for those who have undergone a transplant, as well as their caregivers and healthcare providers.
What is cGVHD?
cGVHD is a complication of bone marrow or stem cell transplantation. It occurs when the transplanted cells attack the recipient’s body, leading to a wide range of symptoms and complications. cGVHD can affect any organ or tissue in the body, including the skin, eyes, mouth, lungs, liver, and gastrointestinal tract.
What are the symptoms of cGVHD?
The symptoms of cGVHD vary depending on the organs or tissues affected. Common symptoms include:
• Skin rashes, itching, and dryness
• Joint pain and stiffness
• Fatigue
• Difficulty breathing
• Abdominal pain
• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Weight loss
• Fever
• Mouth sores
• Hair loss
• Vision changes
• Swelling of the lymph nodes
• Abnormal liver function tests
What causes cGVHD?
cGVHD is caused by the transplanted cells attacking the recipient’s body. This is known as “graft versus host” (GVH) reaction. The transplanted cells recognize the recipient’s body as foreign and attack it, leading to inflammation and damage to the organs and tissues.
How is cGVHD diagnosed?
cGVHD is diagnosed based on a combination of physical examination, laboratory tests, and imaging studies. Your doctor may also perform a skin biopsy to confirm the diagnosis.
How is cGVHD treated?
The treatment of cGVHD depends on the severity of the condition and the organs or tissues affected. Treatment may include medications, such as corticosteroids, immunosuppressants, and biologic agents. Other treatments, such as photopheresis, may also be used.
What is the prognosis for cGVHD?
The prognosis for cGVHD depends on the severity of the condition and the organs or tissues affected. In some cases, cGVHD can be managed with medications and other treatments. In other cases, cGVHD can be life-threatening.
Understanding cGVHD is essential for those who have undergone a transplant, as well as their caregivers and healthcare providers. If you or a loved one has undergone a transplant, it is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of cGVHD and to seek medical attention if any of these symptoms develop.
