Bone Marrow Transplant Risks: Mortality Rates and Key Complications

Bone marrow transplantation (BMT) offers a potential cure for serious diseases but carries significant risks.

Major Risks

• Graft‑versus‑host disease (GVHD): Donor immune cells attack the recipient's tissues; can be fatal.
• Infection: High‑dose conditioning chemotherapy/radiation weakens the immune system.
• Organ damage: Conditioning regimens can harm the heart, lungs, kidneys, and liver.
• Disease recurrence: The original disease may relapse after transplant.
• Mortality: Overall death rates range from 10–20% depending on patient factors and transplant type.

Careful patient selection, meticulous planning, and vigilant post‑transplant care are essential to optimize outcomes.