Autologous Stem Cell Collecting

In an autologous stem cell transplant, a child's stem cells are collected and preserved during the pre-admission phase of the stem cell transplant process.

This procedure is often done as an outpatient, but is sometimes done as an inpatient. Stem cells are collected during a time when the child's blood counts are high.

A medication called G-CSF (granulocyte colony stimulating factor) or Neupogen is given for several days before collecting the cells to increase the number of stem cells that will be obtained during the collection. The child or care provider is taught how to give this medication.

Blood tests are also done to determine when stem cells are at a high enough number to be collected.

If you have any questions about the autologous stem cell collecting or any other part of the stem cell transplant process, please contact us.