Autologous stem cell transplantation is considered definitive therapy for which hematologic malignancy?

Autologous stem cell transplantation is considered definitive therapy for which hematologic malignancy?

• A. Radiation therapy
• B. Autologous stem cell transplant
• C. Antibiotic therapy
• D. Platelet transfusion

Answer: (B)

Autologous stem cell transplantation is a definitive approach for certain systemic hematologic cancers because it pairs high-dose chemotherapy to erase malignant cells with transplantation of the patient’s own previously collected stem cells to rebuild the bone marrow. This combination can achieve deeper, longer-lasting remissions than standard chemotherapy alone, making it a curative-intent option for diseases like multiple myeloma in appropriately selected, fit patients. The procedure is planned after an initial response to induction therapy and avoids some risks associated with donor cells, such as graft-versus-host disease. In contrast, radiation therapy is typically localized and may palliate bulky disease but does not address systemic malignant cell burden; antibiotics treat infections rather than the cancer; and platelet transfusion helps with bleeding risk but does not treat the underlying malignancy.

Autologous stem cell transplantation is a definitive approach for certain systemic hematologic cancers because it pairs high-dose chemotherapy to erase malignant cells with transplantation of the patient’s own previously collected stem cells to rebuild the bone marrow. This combination can achieve deeper, longer-lasting remissions than standard chemotherapy alone, making it a curative-intent option for diseases like multiple myeloma in appropriately selected, fit patients. The procedure is planned after an initial response to induction therapy and avoids some risks associated with donor cells, such as graft-versus-host disease. In contrast, radiation therapy is typically localized and may palliate bulky disease but does not address systemic malignant cell burden; antibiotics treat infections rather than the cancer; and platelet transfusion helps with bleeding risk but does not treat the underlying malignancy.