Conditioning regimens are high dose or reduced intensity and consist of a combination of chemotherapy, radiation and/or immunosuppressive agents.
High-Dose/Myeloablative Regimens
The purpose of high-dose regimens is to destroy a greater number of cancer cells than with standard doses of chemo/radiotherapy.
High-Dose Chemotherapy
There are several chemotherapy drugs that can be utilized. Chemotherapy regimens vary depending on the type of cancer, the stage of the cancer, and the available chemotherapy protocols. Your physician will discuss the best drugs and doses for your disease.
Total Body Irradiation
In addition to chemotherapy, some patients also receive Total Body Irradiation (TBI) as part of their preparation for transplant. TBI is given in divided doses, called fractions, at the Radiation Oncology Department. The number of fractions you receive will depend on your treatment guideline or protocol. Each visit takes 1-1.5 hours. You will meet with the Radiation Oncologist prior to being admitted for your transplant.
Nonmyeloablative Regimens/Reduced Intensity
The purpose of nonmyeloablative or reduced intensity regimens is to create space in the patient’s marrow for donor cells. These regimens can accomplish this goal by giving lower doses of chemotherapy and/or radiation in conjunction with immunosuppressive agents.
Chemotherapy/TBI
Standard doses of chemotherapy with or without 1 –2 fractions of TBI are administered. These regimens vary depending on the type of cancer, the stage of the cancer, and the available protocols. Your physician will discuss the best drugs and doses for your disease.