My father was diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer's seven years ago at 55. He has now been diagnosed with amyloidosis and the only treatment is a bone marrow transplant. I am scared that the severe chemo associated with the transplant will advance the Alzheimer's dramatically. I know this is the only treatment but it will only slow down the progression of the amyloidosis and not cure it so I'm wondering if it's worth the risk. Has anyone had any experience with Alzheimer's patients receiving chemotherapy and/or a bone marrow transplant?
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Q: Has anyone had any experience with Alzheimer's patients receiving a bone marrow transplant?
Answers (1)
10/12/11 11:02am
Shauna,
It has benn a long time since 2008 but I just want to answer this question in general.
Obviously early onset AD is very serious and thus no major surgery or even transplant should be done. Hospice is a good choice later on. The person with dementia is very confused and refuses tubings and medical procedures.
For sure, such transplant would make the person decline further.
Regards,
NC
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