What Is Chronic Graft Versus Host Disease?

Chronic graft-versus-host disease (cGVHD) is a serious long-term complication of stem cell transplant. It occurs when the donor immune cells (the graft) attack the recipient's body (the host). This can damage many different organs and tissues, leading to a wide range of symptoms.

cGVHD develops in about 30% to 50% of people who undergo stem cell transplant. It is more common in people who receive a transplant from an unrelated donor, and in those who have a higher degree of immune mismatch between the donor and the recipient.

The symptoms of cGVHD can vary depending on which organs are affected. Common symptoms include:

* Skin: Dryness, itching, rash, sores

* Eyes: Dryness, inflammation, vision problems

* Mouth: Dryness, sores, difficulty swallowing

* Gastrointestinal tract: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain

* Liver: Elevated liver enzymes, jaundice

* Lungs: Shortness of breath, cough

* Kidneys: Kidney failure

* Muscles: Weakness, fatigue

* Bones: Joint pain, osteoporosis

cGVHD can be a very serious condition and can lead to death. Treatment typically involves immunosuppressive medications to suppress the donor immune cells. Other treatments may include corticosteroids, phototherapy, and stem cell transplant.

Preventing cGVHD is the best way to manage it. This can be done by carefully matching the donor and recipient, and by using immunosuppressive medications to prevent the donor immune cells from attacking the host.