Graft vs host disease

Description

A condition that happens when immune cells from donor bone marrow in a stem cell transplant attack the person who gets the cells, called the host.

Overview

Graft-versus-host disease may happen any time after a stem cell transplant. But it's more common after the marrow starts to make healthy cells. The condition may be mild or serious.

Symptoms

Symptoms depend on which organ the condition affects. Some symptoms include upset stomach, vomiting, loose stools, stomach pain or cramping, and rash.

Treatments

Treatment includes medicines such as steroids to lower the immune system response.