7) Stem cell transplantation
Stem cell transplantation remains one of the greatest advances of modern medicine and the most curative option for myelofibrosis. The basic principle is that ablating or destroying the old bone marrow which has the genetic defect responsible for myelofibrosis and replacing it with another one, thereby eliminating the cause of the disease. Most of the complications of the main condition become reversible after successful transplantation.
Stem cell transplantation is not the ultimate solution for all cases, however, and many patients may not be ideal candidates since it depends on the acceptance of the grafted marrow to the body. If the grafted marrow develops an autoimmune reaction towards the body, a condition called graft-versus-host disease can develop which is potentially fatal. Ideal patients for stem cell transplantation are young, with minimal complications and a relatively normal hemoglobin level especially if their donors are siblings.