Autologous Transplant
BMT Phase
Possible Side Effects

Possible Side Effects Specific to Autologous Transplant

Patients do not generally experience any significant side effects from the actual bone marrow infusion. Some people develop chills, rashes, a fast pulse rate, or high blood pressure. However, each of these symptoms is carefully monitored and treated as necessary.

Since you are undergoing an autologous transplant, i.e., receiving your own stem cells, your stem cells would have to be frozen and then thawed prior to the transplant. To protect the stem cells while they are frozen, a preservative called DMSO (Dimethyl Sulfoxide) is used. During and after the transplant, you may experience some side effects from DMSO.

The DMSO may cause you to have a garlic-like (or oyster/cream of corn-like) taste in your mouth that will last a few days. Some patients find it beneficial to chew gum or suck on hard candies to lessen this effect during the infusion. Occasionally, DMSO can cause nausea, shortness of breath, wheezing, stomach pains, lowered heart rate, or allergic reaction. You will be given medication before the transplant to help prevent them from occurring. Although not due to DMSO, your urine may become red-coloured for 24 hours after the infusion. A nurse and doctor will be in your room during the entire transplant to monitor you closely.

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