graft-versus-host disease
A complication of bone marrow transplantation where donor immune cells attack recipient tissues.
Full Definition
Graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) is a potentially serious complication occurring after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, a treatment sometimes used for severe primary immunodeficiencies like SCID. The condition develops when transplanted donor T-cells recognize the recipient's tissues as foreign and mount an immune response against them. GVHD can be acute (occurring within 100 days) or chronic (after 100 days), affecting primarily the skin, gastrointestinal tract, and liver. Prevention involves immunosuppressive medications, and treatment can be challenging, requiring careful balance between controlling GVHD and maintaining immune reconstitution.
Usage
Usage note: Hyphenate all components; abbreviated as 'GVHD' in clinical contexts.
In Context
- "The patient developed acute graft-versus-host disease affecting the skin and intestines following bone marrow transplantation." — Transplant follow-up note
- "Prophylactic immunosuppression was initiated to prevent graft-versus-host disease." — Transplant protocol