Coping physically with cancer

Graft versus host disease (GvHD)

Graft versus host disease (GvHD) is a possible complication after a bone marrow or stem cell transplant from another person. This is called a donor transplant or an allogeneic transplant. It happens when white blood cells in the donated bone marrow or stem cells attack your own body cells.

Understanding more about how GvHD develops and what the treatment is might help you cope if you develop this complication.

What is graft versus host disease (GvHD)?

GvHD is a possible complication of a bone marrow or stem cell transplant from another person. A transplant from another person is called a donor or an allogeneic transplant. Find out more.

GvHD symptoms

The symptoms of graft versus host disease (GvHD) depend on the type you have and which parts of your body it affects. Find out more.

Types and grades of GvHD

There are different types of GvHD. The doctor assesses the type you have and gives it a grade. Knowing the type and grade helps doctors plan your treatment.

Diagnosing GvHD

If you have symptoms of GvHD you have further tests and investigations to confirm its GVHD. Find out about the possible tests you might have.

Preventing GvHD

You have treatment to reduce your risk of developing GvHD. Find out what you might have.

Treatment of GvHD

Treatment for graft versus host disease (GvHD) can depend on a number of factors, including what type of GvHD you have and where you have it. Find out about the treatment for acute and chronic GvHD.

Coping with chronic GvHD

Chronic GvHD can be difficult to cope with and can affect your quality of life. Find out more about how it might affect you and what support is available.