Bone Marrow Transplants

“Our treatment focuses on hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) — a proven method for treating
lymphoma, leukemia and other diseases that affect the bone marrow. Commonly, these procedures are refered to as bone marrow transplants (BMT) because the cells were collected directly from inside the bone, which was more invasive. Today, medical advances allow these same cells to be collected from the bloodstream instead, making the process much less invasive. We will use BMT throughout our materials since it’s more widely recognized and understood. Both terms can be used interchangeably.  

At CTAC we specialize in treating a range of canine blood cell cancers and other bone marrow disorders.

What are Bone Marrow Transplants?

A bone marrow transplant (BMT) replaces damaged or diseased bone marrow with healthy cells, allowing the body to produce normal blood cells again. For dogs with lymphoma, this is the only curative treatment available. At CTAC, our team has extensive experience performing BMTs in both small and large dogs. Although these procedures are complex, their outcomes can be life-changing — giving many dogs with lymphoma the chance for a longer life with their families.

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Treatment Plan

Each transplant is carefully planned to meet the specific needs of the patient, beginning with the selection of the stem cell source.

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Autologous

Uses the patient’s own stem cells

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Allogeneic

Uses stem cells from a matched donor

What is the process like?

1

Diagnosis and chemotherapy

Before starting BMT treatment, it is ideal, though not mandatory, for dogs to be in clinical remission (showing no signs of cancer). Achieving remission typically involves chemotherapy before proceeding with BMT.

2

Finding a match

When an allogeneic BMT is being considered, the best chance of finding a suitable matched donor dog is within family members, which all have a 25% chance of matching. These include the bitch, sire, and littermates. Other dogs produced from the same mating pair can also be considered. If a matched donor dog cannot be located, then an allogeneic BMT is not possible and an autologous BMT can be considered.

3

High-dose Cyclophosphamide (chemotherapy)

For an autologous BMT, a high dose of injectable cyclophosphamide is given approximately two weeks before the procedure by the referring oncologist. This step is not needed for an allogeneic BMT.

4

Hospitalization & SCT

Two weeks after receiving cyclophosphamide, dogs are admitted to CTAC for a thorough evaluation, followed by stem cell collection. Once this is done, they undergo total body radiation and are hospitalized for 2–3 weeks.

5

At home recovery

Once cleared to go home, the dog will need time to rest and fully recover. At CTAC, we send a very detailed recheck schedule to the referring veterinarian outlining the appointment schedule to ensure a continued safe recovery in the ensuing weeks.

Learn more about what to expect

Is a bone marrow transplant right for your dog?

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While both allogeneic and autologous BMT carries some risks, they remain the most promising treatments that can cure dogs with B- and T-cell lymphoma. Success depends upon many factors including the type of lymphoma, the dog’s overall health, if remission before the procedure is achieved, and what type of BMT is used. BMT is now covered my many major pet insurance companies.

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