Hepatic veno-occlusive disease following bone marrow transplantation

More than 2,000 bone marrow transplants (BMT) are performed in the United States each year. Hepatic veno-occlusive disease is a relatively frequent complication of BMT, occurring in up to 21% of patients treated with chemotherapy for malignant conditions. This potentially serious complication can have a major impact on the treatment and care of these patients. Knowledge of the pathophysiology, clinical features, and risk factors of this disease can assist nurses with early detection, management, support, and education for the patient and family.