Stem-cell transplant for neuroblastoma

A stem‑cell transplant - sometimes called stem‑cell rescue or autologous stem‑cell transplant - is an important stage of treatment for children with high‑risk neuroblastoma. This is when your child’s previously collected healthy stem cells are given back to them. It takes place after high‑dose chemotherapy and helps the body recover by restoring healthy blood‑cell production. 

High‑dose chemotherapy is very effective at killing cancer cells, but it also severely damages the bone marrow, where blood cells are made. A stem‑cell transplant allows the medical team to safely give intensive chemotherapy while supporting the body to recover afterwards. 

Where the stem cells come from 

The transplant uses your child’s own stem cells, which are collected earlier in treatment and frozen until needed. Using your child’s own cells means: 

• There is no risk of rejection 
• No donor is required 
• The cells are ready to be given back as soon as high‑dose chemotherapy is complete 

These cells are returned via a drip, similar to a blood transfusion. 

What happens during the transplant stage 

After high‑dose chemotherapy is finished, the frozen stem cells are thawed and given back to your child through their central line. From there, the cells travel to the bone marrow and begin to grow.

During the infusion, you may notice a strong smell, similar to sweetcorn. This is completely normal, and a result of the chemicals that are used to store stem cells.

Over the next couple of weeks, your child’s body will gradually start to make new blood cells. 

During this recovery period, children are at very high risk of infection, so they stay in a special isolation room with strict infection‑control measures until their immune system begins to recover. 

Isolation and support during recovery 

Your child may need: 

• Antibiotics or antifungal medications 
• Blood or platelet transfusions 
• Nutritional support 
• Close monitoring from the medical team 

Hospitals support parents or carers to stay with their child during this period, and staff will explain how to reduce infection risks and care for your child safely. 

After the transplant 

Once blood counts recover and the medical team is confident your child is safe to leave isolation, they will move out of the specialist room to continue recovery.

Side effects 

Stem‑cell transplant can cause short‑term and long‑term side effects, which vary from child to child. 

Read more about the side effects of stem‑cell transplant.

If you have any concerns, your child’s clinical team will explain what to expect and how side effects can be managed. 

Animated video on stem-cell harvest during treatment for high-risk neuroblastoma

This animated video was produced as part of the SIOPEN High-Risk Neuroblastoma 2 Trial.