Donor lymphocyte infusion

Donor lymphocyte infusion (DLI) is a form of cancer treatment in which lymphocytes from a donor are infused into a patient. This treatment is often used for patients who have had a stem cell transplant and are at risk of relapse. The donor lymphocytes can help to boost the patient's immune system and fight off any remaining cancer cells.

Procedure

The procedure for a donor lymphocyte infusion typically involves the collection of lymphocytes from a donor's blood. These lymphocytes are then processed in a laboratory to remove any unwanted cells and to ensure that they are safe for infusion. The lymphocytes are then infused into the patient's bloodstream, where they can begin to attack any remaining cancer cells.

Uses

Donor lymphocyte infusions are often used as a treatment for patients who have had a stem cell transplant and are at risk of relapse. They can also be used to treat certain types of leukemia and lymphoma, as well as some other types of cancer.

Risks and Side Effects

Like all medical treatments, donor lymphocyte infusions can have risks and side effects. These can include fever, chills, rash, and fatigue. In some cases, the infusion can also cause a serious condition known as graft-versus-host disease (GVHD), in which the donor cells attack the patient's own tissues.

Research

Research is ongoing into the use of donor lymphocyte infusions in cancer treatment. Some studies have suggested that this treatment can be effective in preventing relapse after a stem cell transplant, while others have suggested that it may be beneficial in treating certain types of leukemia and lymphoma.

See Also

• Cancer treatment
• Stem cell transplant
• Leukemia
• Lymphoma
• Graft-versus-host disease