This thesis contains the results of several studies on the long-term consequences of the myeloablative conditioning for haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (SCT) during infancy and childhood,... Show moreThis thesis contains the results of several studies on the long-term consequences of the myeloablative conditioning for haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (SCT) during infancy and childhood, with the emphasis on late effects on endocrine functions. After a general introduction, effects of total-body irradiation (TBI) on pituitary and thyroid glands in rhesus monkeys and effects of irradiation on growth plates in growing rats are discussed. After these experimental animal data, effects of different conditioning regimens for SCT in children on growth, pubertal development, thyroid function and quality of life are discussed in subsequent chapters, and results of growth hormone therapy in these patients are presented. All study results presented in the thesis and relevant data from the literature are integrated into a general discussion at the end of the thesis. Show less
