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Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) refers to the process of intravenous infusion of self-renewing hematopoietic stem cells to restore normal hematopoiesis and is a rapidly developing and highly effective modality of treatment for a wide range of immunologic, metabolic, hematologic, as well as malignant diseases. Patients undergoing HSCT are at high risk of infectious complications in the peri-transplant period while awaiting immune reconstitution. There has been significant progress in this field, with improved supportive care, as well as development of novel reduced-intensity preparative regimens all of which have markedly reduced toxicities associated with this procedure and improved treatment outcomes. In addition, the use of alternative donor grafts, such as umbilical cord and haploidentical donors, allows more patients to have access to HSCT. This chapter aims to provide a broad overview of HSCT, reviewing both the historical aspects and the underlying immunobiology of this procedure. In addition, technical aspects of HSCT, latest advances in the field and an overview of the relevant literature, and clinical issues faced in practice are also discussed.

DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-9034-4_7