Graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) treatment options
Graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) affects everyone differently, and treatment is tailored to each patient. Most begin with steroids, but if that doesn’t work, there are other options, including access to cutting-edge clinical trials through our Jason Carter Clinical Trial Search and Support Program. Our goal is to ease symptoms, protect your transplant and help you feel better.
Acute GVHD treatment options
The most common treatment for acute GVHD is steroids, such as prednisone. These medicines are immunosuppressants, which means they help weaken your new immune system so it doesn’t attack your body. Starting treatment as soon as GVHD symptoms appear can lead to better outcomes. Your care team will closely monitor you to make adjustments as needed.
Why early diagnosis of acute GVHD matters
Catching GVHD early is critical. Prompt treatment can help prevent permanent organ damage and improve your overall recovery.
Although rare, severe cases of GVHD can be life-threatening. Studies show a strong link between early steroid treatment and better survival rates. If you notice new symptoms, talk to your care team right away.
What to expect during treatment
Because your immune system is weaker after a transplant, even a year or more later, you may need to take extra precautions:
- Avoid large crowds
- Limit sun exposure
- Follow food safety guidelines
- Stay current on vaccines (as advised)
Your doctor will give you specific recommendations based on your recovery.
Take your medicine exactly as prescribed
- Don’t skip doses or stop taking your GVHD medicines without telling your doctor.
- If you have trouble swallowing pills, you may need to receive your medicine through an IV (intravenous line) temporarily.
GVHD treatment can last for weeks or months. Your care team will work with you to find the right type and dose of medicine with the fewest side effects.
Learn more about what you can do to reduce your risk of GVHD
Treating GVHD with extracorporeal photopheresis (ECP)
If steroids aren’t working to manage your GVHD, extracorporeal photopheresis (ECP) may be an option. ECP is a nonsurgical outpatient procedure that treats GVHD affecting the skin. During the treatment, your blood is drawn, treated with light, and returned to your body.
While the exact science is still being studied, ECP is believed to help the immune system respond in a way that reduces inflammation and slows GVHD progression.
Living with chronic GVHD
Living with chronic graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) can be stressful. It’s helpful to focus on positive ways to cope with the disease during treatment and recovery.
Visit the NMDP Patient Support Center for more help with GVHD
It’s completely normal to feel frustrated with your diagnosis or all the ways it affects your life. No matter how you’re feeling, everyone needs support. It can help to talk with others about your situation or join a support group.
The NMDP Patient Support Center offers free, confidential counseling to help you and your loved ones cope with the emotional challenges of life after transplant and GVHD. Our trained counselors provide one-on-one support by phone and can guide you through practical ways to manage stress and feel more in control.
For free telephone counseling, contact the NMDP Counseling Services at 1 (888) 999-6743 or email patientinfo@nmdp.org.