Bone marrow transplant is at present the only treatment available once signs of ald have been confirmed by MRI scan. It is an intense procedure and the treatment itself is not without risk.

On diagnosis of ald in an asymptomatic male, a bone marrow match will be found as soon as possible. It should be noted that due to the risks inherent with the procedure, bone marrow transplant will only be performed if MRI scans confirm ald deterioration has begun.

Dr Colin Steward of Bristol Royal Hospital for Children has very kindly written an introductory article on bone marrow transplant for our website - www.aldlife.org/steward.doc. This summarises experience that he has gained in transplanting 10 boys with ALD on the Bristol Unit (as at May 2006) and of co-ordinating transplant guidelines in this area for the European Blood and Marrow Transplant Group (EBMT). Dr Steward would like to stress that this article represents his own opinions and should not be taken as the view of all physicians. We would greatly value your feedback if you disagree with any of the content or find factual inaccuracies.

Many thanks to Lisa for providing this account of her own experience with her eldest ald boy. If you can help with other accounts please contact us.