What is the difference between an autologous and an allogeneic stem-cell (bone-marrow) transplant?

According to the National Cancer Institute (NCI), the main types of stem cell (bone marrow) transplant are grouped by who provides the stem cells. In an autologous transplant, the stem cells come from you — the person with cancer. In an allogeneic transplant, the stem cells come from someone else; NCI notes the donor may be a blood relative or someone who is not related, as long as the cells are a close enough match to yours. So the key difference is the source of the cells: your own stem cells versus a donor's stem cells. Which approach is used depends on your specific diagnosis and situation. This is general information from NCI, not personal medical advice — your own cancer care team can explain which type is right for you.

Last updated: 2026-07-12

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