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Managing Neuropathy After Transplant
Peripheral neuropathy—nerve damage that causes tingling, pain, numbness, or balance issues—is a frequent side effect of some chemotherapy treatments.
In a presentation, Dr. Sasha Knowlton, Director of Cancer Rehabilitation at the University of North Carolina, explains how neuropathy can affect patients after bone marrow or stem cell transplants. Though it can’t always be prevented, it can be managed to improve quality of life.
She discusses why neuropathy occurs, who’s most at risk, and the common symptoms that interfere with daily activities. Treatment options include adjusting chemotherapy doses, using medications or ointments, and trying acupuncture or physical therapy. Simple habits—like regular exercise and daily skin checks—can also help.
Dr. Knowlton emphasizes that while neuropathy poses challenges, proactive management and supportive care can significantly reduce symptoms and restore confidence in everyday life.
Graft-versus-Host Disease and Your Eyes
Ocular graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) is a frequent complication after stem cell or bone marrow transplants, affecting about half of all patients who receive donor cells. Because early signs are often subtle, many cases go undetected until serious eye damage occurs.
In her presentation, Dr. Katie Luo of Massachusetts Eye and Ear and Harvard Medical School explains how ocular GVHD develops, its early warning signs—such as watery eyes, crusting, or discharge—and why timing is critical, as symptoms can worsen after changes in immunosuppression or vaccination.
She outlines strategies to protect vision, including using preservative-free eye drops, moisture goggles, and close coordination with the transplant team. Dr. Luo also highlights current treatments and promising research aimed at improving long-term eye health.
Her main message: recognizing and addressing ocular GVHD early can prevent permanent vision loss and greatly improve quality of life.
Additional Resources:
American Cancer Society: Managing Cancer-related Side Effects