How effective is allogeneic stem cell transplant for chronic myeloid leukaemia?

Before the transplant, conditioning treatment makes space in the marrow and suppresses existing immune activity. Donor stem cells then rebuild blood formation. Donor immune cells may also recognise and attack leukaemia cells, an effect that can help control the disease but can contribute to graft-versus-host disease.

Targeted medicines are often central to CML care. Transplant may be discussed when the leukaemia changes phase, responds poorly to available medicines, develops resistance, or when treatment cannot be tolerated. Molecular tests, blood counts, marrow findings, disease phase, and the presence of a suitable donor help shape the decision.

Bring your treatment history and molecular test results to the transplant consultation. Ask whether another targeted medicine, a clinical option, or transplant best fits the current disease phase. Review donor search, conditioning intensity, fertility, vaccinations, infection prevention, medicine interactions, and the practical need for a caregiver and frequent follow-up.

After transplant, call the transplant team promptly for fever, chills, new breathlessness, persistent vomiting or diarrhoea, unusual bruising or bleeding, a new rash, mouth sores, or yellow skin or eyes. These symptoms can signal infection, low blood counts, medication effects, or graft-versus-host disease and need assessment.

What is my current CML phase and treatment response? Why is transplant being considered now? Which donor and conditioning options are realistic? How will molecular monitoring guide follow-up, and what symptoms require an urgent call?