The skin is the most common target of graft-versus-host disease (GVHD), a frequent complication that occurs after a transplant using donor cells. Although most skin changes after transplant are mild or moderate, more severe skin problems are possible.

Graft-versus-Host-Disease (GVHD) occurs when transplanted donor cells attack the patient’s body. It can affect virtually every organ in the body and may require prolonged treatment. This presentation reviews the different types of GVHD, symptoms you should watch for and report to your doctor, and the available treatment options.

Chronic graft-versus-host disease occurs in more than 50% of patients transplanted with cells from a donor. The skin is affected most frequently by GVHD. This presentation describes different types of GVHD of the skin. It also discusses the most common symptoms and promising treatments for this problem.