I was hoping that this group might be able to point me in the right
direction with regards to information regarding stem cell transplants. I
know that there have been some experimental and successful treatments in
this area. I have a good friend, that while she does not have lupus, does
have autoimmune hepatitis. She cannot tolerate the standard
immunosuppressive treatments for the disease, as they have caused brain
lesions, amongst other things, and was recently removed from the liver
transplant list at her center. On top of this, through a series of events,
it appears as though her autoimmune condition has spread to her esophagus,
and is causing major eating disruptions. There is no known treatment, and
her docs are consulting with docs in Chicago, where they have done several
stem cell transplants that have reversed lupus in about 44 patients, as I
understand. She is a dear friend and I am trying to research this as much as
possible for her. They have also discussed the possibility of treating her
with Remicade.

If anyone has information regarding stem cell transplants and autoimmune
disease, I would appreciate it. I have been to the National Bone Marrow
donor site, but am looking into all resources. BTW, I am a former NYC
paramedic and organ procurement coordinator, so don't be shy in using
medical terminology with me!  ;-)

--
David Spiro
Liver Transplant Recipient - 8/1/97
RECYCLE YOURSELF! - BE AN ORGAN DONOR
"This country can lay claim to no distinct criminal class, excepting of
course, Congress."
                         Mark Twain