What to Know About Stem Cell Transplants for Leukemia

A stem cell transplant for leukemia is specifically called a hematopoietic stem cell transplant. It’s also simply called a blood and bone marrow transplant.

Stem cells are single cells that are like cells with a blank slate. They can develop into any kind of cell. Which cell they become depends on which tissue a doctor places them in. For instance, a stem cell can turn into nerve tissue. Or it can become muscle tissue. Stem cells also make the blood cells that are produced in the bone marrow. These are called hematopoietic stem cells. In the case of leukemia, a stem cell transplant helps your body make new healthy blood cells. It replaces the leukemia cells and normal cells that are killed during treatment.