REVIEW - Allogeneic stem cell transplantation for rheumatic autoimmune diseases

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Allogeneic stem cell transplantation for rheumatic autoimmune diseases

Hügle and M van Laar

Musculoskeletal Research Group, Institute of Cellular Medicine,

Newcastle University, 4th Floor, Cookson Building, The

Medical School, Framlington Place, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE2 4HH, UK

F1000 Med Reports2010, 2:22 (doi: 10.3410/M2-22)

Published: 25 Mar 2010 © 2010 Medicine Reports Ltd

ABSTRACT

Haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) has evolved from an

experimental concept to an effective treatment option for severe

autoimmune diseases and has a unique ability to restore immune

regulation. It is a complex multistep procedure involving the

administration of high doses of immunosuppressive medication and

transplantation of stem cells. Most HSCT procedures in autoimmune

disease have involved autologous stem cells. In the case of allogeneic

transplantation, stem cells are derived from peripheral blood or bone

marrow of a healthy HLA-matched donor. Allogeneic HSCT has curative

potential based on studies in experimental models of autoimmune

disease, case reports, and a registry analysis but carries significant

risks of rejection and graft-versus-host disease. Unless these risks

become manageable, allogeneic HSCT should be offered only if all

alternative treatment options have failed, if a patient has a suitable

donor, and if a patient still has a chance to benefit significantly

from the procedure.

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Read the full article here:

http://f1000.com/reports/m/2/22/

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