Graft-versus-Host Disease — NCLEX Cheat Sheet
Donor cells attack host
👤 By the CinnaRN Clinical Content Team
🕐 Updated 2026-07-11
🏷️ Physiological Adaptation
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Use this quick-reference guide to spot, treat, and prevent Graft-versus-Host Disease on the NCLEX. Keep it handy during review and on exam day!
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- Donor T-cells attack recipient tissue
- After allogeneic stem cell transplant
- Skin → maculopapular rash, blistering
- Gut → severe diarrhea, abd pain
- Liver → jaundice, ↑ bilirubin
- Immunosuppressants: cyclosporine, steroids
- Irradiate all blood products
- Strict infection precautions
- Sepsis signs (immunosuppressed)
- Severe fluid loss from diarrhea
✨Quick Tip
Donor immune (T) cells attack host tissues, most characteristically the skin, GI tract, and liver.
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