Dr. Palmer on Complications of Acute Graft-Versus-Host Disease

Jeanne M. Palmer, MD, a hematologist and oncologist in the Department of Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplant Program at Mayo Clinic, discusses common complications associated with acute graft-versus-host disease (aGVHD).

Typically, aGVHD involves 3 major organ systems: the skin, gastrointestinal (GI) tract, and liver, says Palmer.

Skin involvement can range from a faint red rash to a blistering rash that can cause desquamation, Palmer says.

GI tract complications can include nausea, vomiting, decreased appetite and mild diarrhea, as well as severe diarrhea and bloody stool, explains Palmer.

Liver involvement can be assessed by monitoring liver enzymes for abnormal levels of bilirubin, concludes Palmer.