There
are two forms of GVHD, an early form (acute) and late-onset form called Chronic
GVHD.
In
the first few months after the transplant, acute GVHD can develop as an immune
response against the skin (rash), the gut (diarrhea or pain), or the liver
(increased liver enzymes and jaundice).
This can be a potentially debilitating and devastating condition. It is generally treated with systemic
steroids, and/or immune suppressive therapy.
Chronic
GVHD develops slowly and is very slow to resolve. Sometimes it never goes away. Chronic GVHD is a very complicated disease
and can affect any organ or tissue in the body.
We have been able to significantly decrease the impact of GVHD partially
by using various medications.