•    Infections: During and after your transplant, you will be at risk for developing many different types of infections. Immediately after your transplant you are at risk for bacterial and fungal infections, as well as for reactivation of certain viruses that reside in your body (for example, the chicken pox or herpes simplex virus). During the first several months after your transplant you will continue to be susceptible to infections, especially viral infections.
•    Veno-Occlusive Disease (VOD): This is a complication that typically affects the liver. It is caused by the high doses of chemotherapy that may be used during the transplant. When VOD occurs, it becomes very difficult for the liver and subsequently lungs and kidneys to function normally. The signs and symptoms of VOD may include jaundice (yellow skin and eyes), a swollen and tender belly (especially where your liver is located), and weight gain. Treatment for VOD may include various medications, blood transfusions, careful monitoring of your liver and kidney function, and blood tests.
•    Lung and Heart Complications: Pneumonias are common following transplant. Approximately 30-40% of patients undergoing an allogeneic transplant and approximately 25% of patients undergoing an autologous transplant will develop pneumonia at some point during their transplant course. The pneumonia may be severe, even life threatening in some cases. Not all pneumonias are caused by infections.
•    Bleeding: Bleeding after transplant is common, especially when your platelet levels are very low. Platelet transfusions are given to try to prevent severe bleeding. Your platelet count and signs of bleeding will be monitored often by your medical team during your transplant. Blood in the urine (called hematuria) is also common after certain types of transplant, and is often due to a specific virus that infects your bladder
•    Graft Versus Host Disease: Graft versus host disease (GVHD) is a complication that occurs when the new stem cells (the graft) react against your body (the host). It can range from a very mild complication or may progress to a life-threatening one.