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Introduction

Bone marrow is a pulpy substance located in the inner cavities of bones. It is where synthesis of new blood cells takes place. Individuals who have certain types of cancer or who have had aggressive treatment for cancer will often find that this crucial substance becomes damaged. In these cases, a Bone Marrow Transplant in Mexico may be indicated.

What is bone marrow?

Every single day, our bodies make 500 million new blood cells. These half billion platelets, erythrocytes (red cells) and leukocytes (white cells) are manufactured inside the spongy tissue on the inside bones. This tissue is called bone marrow.

Red blood cells, or erythrocytes, carry oxygenated blood from the lungs to the other cells and tissues in the body. White blood cells, also called leukocytes, play an important role in the immune system and help the body fight infection. Platelets are much smaller than the other two types of cell made in the bone marrow; these cells stick to each other to seal cuts and to mend broken blood vessels.

These three cell types are collectively referred to as hematoopoietic cells. Until they differentiate into one of the specialized types of blood cell, they are known as stem cells. When bone marrow becomes damaged as a result of disease or harsh medical treatments like chemotherapy and radiation, the damaged tissue can be replaced with healthy bone marrow cells. This is called a bone marrow transplant.

What is a Bone Marrow Transplant (BMT)?

There are three different types of Bone Marrow Transplant in Mexico. These are:

Autologous - In this type of procedure, your own stem cells are harvested and stored prior to receiving either radiotherapy or chemo, while they are still healthy. Autologous transplants have the advantage of not being rejected by the host, meaning you. Clearly, they are suitable only for people who still have healthy stem cells.

Allogeneic - If your bone marrow has become damaged by disease, an autologous BMT might not be suitable for you. It may, however, be possible to replace your cells with stem cells from a healthy donor, usually a close relative.

Umbilical cord - This is a comparatively new procedure in which cells from an umbilical cord are harvested and used to replace your own. Studies have shown that patients have fewer problems with Graft Versus Host Disease (GVHD) than in other types of transplant procedure.

You and your doctor will decide which bone marrow transplant is best for you. If you would like to speak to a specialist, please contact our team; we will be happy to offer a free, no obligation consultation.




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