During this period of low white cell count there is risk of serious infection. A careful assessment must be made as to which patients benefit the most from a transplant and which would be better served with a conservative approach. The patient's activity level is important. Patients who are incapable of being up and about most of the day are at higher risk for complications. Patients should be fully active or have only minimal impairment from their normal routine.
Age is a factor, but there is no absolute threshold.
A patient age 50 is likely to recover from intense treatment much faster than someone age 70. Patients who have significant impairment in heart or in lung function are not good candidates because their risks are increased and could negate any benefit of the procedure. Good kidney function is important. This is not to say that kidney function needs to be normal. The timing of transplant is currently the subject of a national study.