Mobilization and collection of blood and marrow stem cells

Autologous patients and Allogeneic donors will be required to have their marrow or blood stem cells mobilized. Mobilization is where large quantities of stem cells are pooled in the bone marrow or blood and collected via the vein or hip bones.

• Prior to the collection of stem cells, you will receive an injection of a growth factor, a medication that aids in increasing stem cell production, to allow mobilization to take place. Please review Growth Factor Education.

• Some autologous patients, depending on age and disease, may require both chemotherapy and growth factors to help mobilize stem cells.

• For the purpose of collecting the mobilized stem cells (PBSC collections), a central venous catheter is typically inserted into the chest. Blood can be drawn with the catheter, and it can be used to deliver chemotherapy or other medications. Please review Four C Rules for Central Line Home Care, Managing Your Tunneled Catheter and PBSC Collection Education.