Graft Versus Host Disease (GVHD) is a medical condition that occurs as a complication of a stem cell or bone marrow transplant. It is characterized by an immune response of the transplanted graft (donor cells) against the recipient's tissues (host cells), leading to inflammation and damage in various organs of the body.
GVHD can be classified into two types: acute and chronic. Acute GVHD generally develops within the first 100 days after transplantation, while chronic GVHD can occur any time after that. Acute GVHD commonly affects the skin, gastrointestinal tract, and liver, while chronic GVHD can involve multiple organs, including the skin, eyes, mouth, lungs, liver, and gastrointestinal system.
The development of GVHD is usually attributed to donor T cells recognizing the recipient's cells as foreign and mounting an immune response against them. These activated immune cells release cytokines and other molecules that promote inflammation, which leads to tissue damage.
The symptoms of GVHD can vary depending on the organs involved but may include skin rash, diarrhea, abdominal pain, liver dysfunction, weight loss, and breathing difficulties. GVHD can range from mild to severe and, in some cases, can be life-threatening.
The treatment of GVHD primarily revolves around suppressing the immune response to prevent further damage and supporting affected organs. Immunosuppressive drugs, such as corticosteroids and other medications that suppress the activity of T cells, are commonly used. In severe cases, additional therapies like phototherapy, extracorporeal photopheresis, or monoclonal antibodies targeting specific immune cells may be employed.
Close monitoring and regular follow-ups are essential for patients who have undergone stem cell or bone marrow transplantation to detect and manage GVHD promptly.
