Diseases treated with blood cell transplants

Abstract

Objectives: To provide an overview of the vast amount of clinical and research data concerning the diseases treated with blood cell transplants.

Data sources: Research studies, abstracts, book chapters, and articles pertaining to diseases treated with blood cell transplantation (BCT).

Conclusions: The potential for the expanded use of BCT in cancer and other diseases appears unlimited. This type of transplantation is gaining widespread use and the number of centers offering this treatment for hematologic and solid tumors is increasing.

Implications for nursing practice: Nurses working in acute care, outpatient, and home care settings need to familiarize themselves with the rapidly expanding role of this treatment to provide the most state-of-the-art care to their patients.