Pre-engraftment syndrome after double-unit cord blood transplantation: a distinct syndrome not associated with acute graft-versus-host disease

Seizures in children undergoing stem cell transplantation

BACKGROUND

Neurological complications (NCs) are of major concern following hematological stem cell transplantation (HSCT), most of which present with seizures.

PROCEDURES

We performed a retrospective study (2002-2018) of patients undergoing HSCT in order to analyze the incidence and aetiologies related to seizures.

RESULTS

Of 155 children undergoing HSCT, 27 (17.4%) developed seizures at some point in 2 years of follow-up. The most frequent etiologies were central nervous system (CNS) infection (n = 10), drug toxicity (n = 8), and vascular disease (n = 5). A statistically significant association was found between seizure and the HSCT type (lower risk for a related identical donor, p = .010), prophylactic or therapeutic mycophenolate use (p = .043 and .046, respectively), steroid use (p = .023), selective CD45RA+ depletion (p = .002), pre-engraftment syndrome (p = .007), and chronic graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) severity (p = .030). Seizures predicted evolution to life-threatening complications and admission to intensive care (p < .001) and higher mortality (p = .023). A statistically significant association was also found between seizures and sequelae in survivors (p = .029). Children who developed seizures had a higher risk of CNS infection and vascular disease (odds ratio 37.25 [95% CI: 7.45-186.05] and 12.95 [95% CI 2.24-74.80], respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

Neurological complications highly impact survival and outcomes and need to be addressed when facing an HSCT procedure.

Low urinary sodium-to-potassium ratio in the early phase following single-unit cord blood transplantation is a predictive factor for poor non-relapse mortality in adults

Although daily higher urinary sodium (Na) and potassium (K) excretion ratio is associated with the risk of cardiovascular disease in the general population, a low Na/K ratio is associated with renal dysfunction in critically ill patients. Thus, we retrospectively analyzed the impact of daily urinary Na and K excretion and their ratio on non-relapse mortality (NRM) and overall mortality in 172 adult single-unit cord blood transplantation (CBT) patients treated at our institution between 2007 and 2020. Multivariate analysis showed that a low urinary Na/K ratio at both 14 days (hazard ratio [HR], 4.82; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.81-12.83; P = 0.001) and 28 days (HR, 4.47; 95% CI 1.32-15.12; P = 0.015) was significantly associated with higher NRM. Furthermore, a low urinary Na/K ratio at 28 days was significantly associated with higher overall mortality (HR, 2.38; 95% CI 1.15-4.91; P = 0.018). Patients with a low urinary Na/K ratio had decreased urine volume, more weight gain, experienced more grade III-IV acute graft-versus-host disease, and required corticosteroids by 28 days after CBT. These findings indicate that a low urinary Na/K ratio early after single-unit CBT is associated with poor NRM and survival in adults.

Characteristics of Engraftment Syndrome following Autologous Stem Cell Transplantation in Light Chain Amyloidosis with Renal Involvement

Engraftment syndrome (ES) is a clinical complication that occurs during the neutrophil recovery phase following hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. The clinical features of ES in light chain (AL) amyloidosis remains to be thoroughly investigated. This study was conducted to better understand the characteristics of ES following autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) in AL amyloidosis with renal involvement. We conducted this single-center retrospective study in 302 patients with AL amyloidosis who underwent ASCT between July 2010 and December 2021. Sixty-seven of the 302 patients (22.2%) developed ES, with a median time to the occurrence of ES after stem cell reinfusion of 11 days (range, 7 to 17 days). Among the outcome measures in this study, estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) at baseline and C-reactive protein (CRP) level on the day of granulocyte engraftment were statistically different between the ES patients and non-ES patients. We observed no significant difference between the 2 groups in transplantation-related adverse events (grade ≥ 2), hematologic and organ responses, overall survival, and progression-free survival. Furthermore, CRP level at granulocyte engraftment (odds ratio [OR], 1.012; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.004 to 1.020; P = .002) and the absence of induction chemotherapy before ASCT (OR, 1.977; 95% CI, 1.047 to 3.731; P = .036) were identified as risk factors for the development of ES, whereas a higher eGFR at baseline (OR, .981; 95% CI, .969 to .993; P = .002) was identified as a protective factor against ES. Our data show a 22.2% incidence of ES in AL amyloidosis patients with renal involvement after ASCT and identify associated risk and protective factors, which can improve the understanding of this clinical complication.

Engraftment syndrome after allogeneic stem cell transplantation: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Engraftment syndrome (ES) is associated with neutrophil recovery after stem cell transplantation (SCT). It is associated with autologous and allogeneic SCT. However, a literature review has shown that allogeneic SCT (allo-SCT) is associated with ES without conclusive data on risk factors or effects on outcomes. This meta-analysis was undertaken to estimate the cumulative incidence of ES following allo-SCT, and to evaluate the risk factors and outcomes among patients with ES following allo-SCT. Current literature was searched using electronic databases, and manually. Studies with ES after allo-SCT were selected, and a meta-analysis of proportion was performed using the Freeman-Tukey Double Arcsine transformation, random-effects model to calculate the cumulative incidence of ES. Donor type, source of haematopoetic stem cells, graft vs. host disease (GvHD) prophylaxes, and conditioning regimens' intensity were evaluated for risk factors for ES. Association of acute GvHD (aGvHD), chronic GvHD (cGvHD), relapse, nonrelapse mortality (NRM), and overall survival (OS) between the ES and no ES groups were assessed using the odds ratio (OR). Eighteen studies were included comprising 3620 patients receiving allo-SCT and 774 of them had developed ES with a cumulative incidence of 35.4%. The odds of aGvHD (OR 2.5, p < 0.001), cGvHD (OR 4.5, p = 0.021), and NRM (OR 1.8, p = 0.01) were higher among patients who developed ES. The odds of relapse were significantly less (OR = 0.679, p = 0.011) among the ES group. OS (OR = 0.72, p < 0.001) was reduced in the ES group. Myeloablative conditioning was found to be a significant risk factor for ES development. In conclusion, ES after allo-SCT is common with higher odds of developing aGvHD, cGvHD, and NRM and lower odds of OS.

Impact of posttransplant cyclophosphamide on the outcome of patients undergoing unrelated single-unit umbilical cord blood transplantation for pediatric acute leukemia

Background

Umbilical cord blood transplantation (UCBT) from unrelated donors is one of the successful treatments for acute leukemia in childhood. The most frequent side effect of UCBT is peri-engraftment syndrome (PES), which is directly associated with the greater prevalence of acute and chronic graft-versus-host-disease (aGvHD and cGvHD). In haploidentical stem cell transplantation, posttransplant cyclophosphamide (PTCY) has been demonstrated to be an effective method against GvHD. However, the effects of PTCY as a GvHD prophylactic in UCBT had not been investigated. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of PTCY on the outcomes of UCBT for pediatric acute leukemia.

Methods

This retrospective study included 52 children with acute leukemia who underwent unrelated single-unit UCBT after myeloablative conditioning regimens. The results from the PTCY and non-PTCY groups were compared.

Results

The incidence of transplantation-related mortality in non-PTCY and PTCY were 5% and 10% (p = 0.525), respectively. The incidence of relapse in non-PTCY and PTCY were 5% and 23% (p = 0.095), respectively. Second complete remission status (CR2) was an independent risk factor for relapse-free survival (hazard ratio = 9.782, p = 0.001). The odds ratio for sepsis or bacteremia incidence was significantly greater in the PTCY group (9.524, p = 0.017). PTCY group had increased rates of cytomegalovirus activity and fungal infection. The incidence of PES, aGvHD, cGvHD, and hemorrhagic cystitis in the PTCY group was lower than that in the non-PTCY group, although it was not significantly different. Additionally, higher doses of PTCY (29 mg/kg and 40 mg/kg) were associated with lower incidences of aGvHD and severe GvHD (65% and 29%, respectively) than lower doses (93% and 57%, respectively). Engraftment time and graft failure incidence were similar across groups.

Conclusion

The results support the safety and efficiency of PTCY as part of PES controlling and GvHD prophylaxis in single-unit UCBT for children with acute leukemia. A PTCY dosage of 29 mg/kg to 40 mg/kg appears to be more effective in GvHD prophylaxis for UCBT patients.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12885-022-10309-9.

Clinical outcome of cord blood transplantation for nine children with juvenile myelomonocytic leukemia receiving fludarabine-busulfan-cyclophosphamide-based conditioning

BACKGROUND

Juvenile myelomonocytic leukemia (JMML) is a rare hematological malignancy in young children and can only be cured through the allogeneic stem cell transplantation.

PROCEDURE

We have retrospectively analyzed the outcomes of nine children with JMML after unrelated cord blood transplantation (UCBT).

RESULTS

Eight patients who have received a myeloablative conditioning regimen of fludarabine (FLU), busulfan (BU), and cyclophosphamide (CY) have gotten engraftment. None of the nine patients has relapsed following initial UCBT. Six patients are still alive and in complete remission after UCBT with a median observation time of 43 months (range: 10-80 months).

CONCLUSIONS

This study shows that UCBT with FLU-BU-CY conditioning regimen can represent a suitable option for children with JMML.

Guidelines for Pediatric Unrelated Cord Blood Transplantation-Unique Considerations

Cord blood (CB) is the stem cell source of choice for approximately 30% of pediatric patients undergoing hematopoietic cell transplantation. Cord blood is readily available and is a particularly appealing stem cell source for patients who lack appropriate HLA-matched related or unrelated donors. Pediatric cord blood transplant (CBT) recipients have low rates of disease relapse in the malignant setting and very low rates of chronic graft-versus-host disease (GVHD). In addition, CB has unique properties that make it the stem cell source of choice for some nonmalignant conditions such as metabolic disorders. This review provides evidence-based and experience-based pediatric-specific guidelines for CBT including considerations for infectious disease management, CB unit selection and infusion, conditioning regimen selection, and GVHD management. In addition, it covers unique bedside considerations for pediatric patients and CB banking. In concert with the other topic specific CB guidelines previously published in this series, it provides a comprehensive overview of the clinical management of pediatric CBT.

Guidelines for the Prevention and Management of Graft-versus-Host Disease after Cord Blood Transplantation

The incidence of graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) after cord blood (CB) transplantation (CBT) is lower than expected given the marked degree of human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-mismatch of CB grafts. While the exact mechanism that underlies this biology remains unclear, it is hypothesized to be due to the low number of mostly immature T-cells infused as part of the graft1,2, and increased tolerance of CB-derived lymphocytes induced by the state of pregnancy. Nevertheless, acute GVHD (aGVHD) is a significant complication of CBT. In contrast, the incidence of chronic GVHD (cGVHD) following CBT is lower than what is observed following matched related or unrelated donor HSC transplantation (HSCT)3-6. This review outlines the guidelines for the prevention and management of acute and chronic GVHD following CBT.

Inflammatory monocytes promote pre-engraftment syndrome and tocilizumab can therapeutically limit pathology in patients

Unrelated cord blood transplantation (UCBT) is an effective treatment for hematopoietic disorders. However, this attractive approach is frequently accompanied by pre-engraftment syndrome (PES), severe cases of PES are associated with enhanced mortality and morbidity, but the pathogenesis of PES remains unclear. Here we show that GM-CSF produced by cord blood-derived inflammatory monocytes drives PES pathology, and that monocytes are the main source of IL-6 during PES. Further, we report the outcome of a single arm, single-center clinical study of tocilizumab in the treatment of steroid-refractory severe PES patients (www.chictr.org.cn ChiCTR1800015472). The study met the primary outcome measure since none of the patients was nonrelapse death during the 100 days follow-up. The study also met key secondary outcomes measures of neutrophil engraftment and hematopoiesis. These findings offer a therapeutic strategy with which to tackle PES and improve nonrelapse mortality.

Pre-engraftment syndrome is a major consideration during clinical application of unrelated cord blood transfusion and monocytes represent a critical cell type in immune-pathogenesis. Here the authors further establish the role of monocytes and GM-CSF in pre-engraftment syndrome and show clinical administration of tocilizumab limits pathology in pre-engraftment syndrome pathology in patients.

Single Cord Blood Transplantation Versus Unmanipulated Haploidentical Transplantation for Adults with Acute Myeloid Leukemia in Complete Remission

Allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) is a potentially curative post-remission therapy for adult patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) in complete remission (CR). The availability of alternative human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-mismatched donors, such as cord blood and haploidentical related donors, could allow patients to receive allogeneic HCT who are without an HLA-matched sibling or unrelated donor. The use of these alternative donors is preferable for patients with advanced disease due to the rapid availability. However, comparative data for cord blood transplantation (CBT) and haploidentical related donor transplantation (haplo-HCT) are limited for adult patients with AML in CR. We sought to compare overall survival (OS); leukemia-free survival (LFS); graft-versus-host disease (GVHD)-free, relapse-free survival (GRFS); and chronic GVHD-free, relapse-free survival (CRFS) between single-unit CBT (SCBT) and haplo-HCT recipients for adult patients with intermediate- or poor-risk AML in CR. We retrospectively analyzed and compared the results of allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation in 1313 adult patients with intermediate- or poor-risk AML in CR who received either SCBT (n = 1102) or unmanipulated haplo-HCT (n = 211) between 2007 and 2018 in Japan. Among the whole cohort, the cumulative incidences of neutrophil and platelet recovery were significantly lower in SCBT recipients compared with those in haplo-HCT recipients (P < .001 for neutrophil, P < .001 for platelet). SCBT was significantly associated with a higher incidence of grade II to IV acute GVHD and lower incidence of extensive chronic GVHD compared to haplo-HCT (P = .013 for grades II to IV acute GVHD; P = .006 for extensive chronic GVHD). Haplo-HCT recipients developed a higher incidence of cytomegalovirus (CMV) antigenemia compared to SCBT recipients (P = .004). In the multivariate analysis, there were no significant differences for grades III or IV acute GVHD (hazard ratio [HR], 1.17; 95% confidence interval [CI], .88 to 1.57; P = .26), relapse incidence (HR, 1.09; 95% CI, .76 to 1.58; P = .61), non-relapse mortality (HR, .83; 95% CI, .58 to 1.18; P = .32), OS (HR, .92; 95% CI, .70 to 1.20; P = .56), LFS (HR, .94; 95% CI, .73 to 1.21; P = .67), GRFS (HR, 1.12; 95% CI, .90 to 1.40; P = .27), or CRFS (HR, 1.15; 95% CI, .92 to 1.44; P = .19) between the two donor types. In the propensity score matching analysis, which identified 180 patients in each cohort, there were no significant differences in transplant outcomes between the two donor types, except for delayed neutrophil (P < .001) and platelet recovery (P < .001) and a higher incidence of grades II to IV acute GVHD (P = .052) in SCBT. SCBT and unmanipulated haplo-HCT had similar survival outcomes for adult patients with AML in CR despite the lower hematopoietic recovery and higher grade II to IV acute GVHD in SCBT recipients and the higher CMV antigenemia in haplo-HCT recipients.

Allogeneic reactivity-mediated endothelial cell complications after HSCT: a plea for consensual definitions

Endothelial cell (EC) activation has been suspected of triggering a group of rare and dismal complications that can occur after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). Capillary leak syndrome, engraftment syndrome, transplant-associated microangiopathy, diffuse alveolar hemorrhage, and idiopathic pneumonia syndrome are the main nosological entities. Post-HSCT endotheliitis can be triggered by chemotherapy, infections, and calcineurin inhibitors, but allogeneic reactivity is claimed to be the common denominator. Endothelial damages are thought to activate several deleterious pathways (proapoptotic, procoagulant, proinflammatory) and can lead to multiorgan failure; however, clinical manifestations of each syndrome overlap, and their relationship with graft-versus-host disease could be minimal. The lack of well-defined diagnostic criteria does not allow for a clear-cut comparison in the current literature. Therapeutic efforts have been made to intercept the pathogenic mechanisms leading to EC dysfunction, but remission rates and survival remain mostly unsatisfactory. In this article, we have reviewed the incidence, clinical features, and treatment approaches of EC activation syndromes, and we plead for the development of internationally accepted standard definitions.

Engraftment Syndrome and Acute Graft-versus-Host Disease: A Meta-Analysis

Engraftment syndrome (ES) has been associated with the surge of neutrophils and cytokines, which is similar to the presumed underlying pathophysiology behind acute graft-versus-host disease (aGVHD). However, there has been no meta-analysis to evaluate the association; therefore, the team attempted to verify an association between ES and aGVHD through meta-analysis. The team searched for titles of articles in MEDLINE (PubMed), the Cochrane Library, and the EMBASE database up until December 2018 that evaluated the association between ES and aGVHD and conducted a random effect meta-analysis of 8 studies involving a total of 1,945 participants to report the pooled odds ratio (OR) for association of ES and aGVHD. The team found a significantly increased odds of developing aGVHD in patients with ES with the pooled OR of 2.76 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.64-4.63) and an I²⁼ 64.5%. In conclusion, patients with ES have significantly higher odds of developing aGVHD compared to patients without ES.

Incidence and Risk Factors for Acute and Chronic Kidney Injury after Adult Cord Blood Transplantation

Although cord blood transplantation (CBT) extends allograft access, patient comorbidities, chemoradiation, and nephrotoxic medications all contribute to acute kidney injury (AKI) risk. We analyzed AKI in adult myeloablative CBT recipients who underwent transplantation from 2006 to 2017 for hematologic malignancies using cyclosporine A (CSA)/mycophenolate mofetil immunosuppression. Maximum grades of AKI were calculated using Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes (grade 1, 1.5 to <2-fold; grade 2, 2 to <3-fold; or grade 3, ≥3-fold over baseline) definitions. In total, 153 patients (median 51 years [range, 23-65], 114/153 [75%] acute leukemia, 27/153 [18%] African, 88/153 [58%] cytomegalovirus seropositive, median age-adjusted hematopoietic cell comorbidity index 3 [range, 0-9], median pretransplant albumin 4.0 g/dL [range, 2.6-5.2]) underwent transplantation. The day 100 cumulative incidence of grade 1-3 AKI was 83% (95% confidence interval [CI], 77%-89%) (predominantly grade 2, median onset 40 days, range 0 to 96), and grade 2-3 AKI incidence was 54% (95% CI, 46%-62%) (median onset 43 days, range 0 to 96). Mean CSA level preceding AKI onset was high (360 ng/mL, target range 300-350). In multivariate analysis, African ancestry, addition of haploidentical CD34⁺ cells, low day -7 albumin, critical illness/intensive care admission, and nephrotoxic drug exposure (predominantly CSA and/or foscarnet) were associated with AKI. In a day 100 landmark analysis, 6% of patients with no prior AKI had chronic kidney disease (CKD) at 2 years versus 43% with prior grade 1 and 38% with prior grade 2-3 AKI (overall P= .02). Adult CBT recipients are at significant AKI risk, and AKI is associated with increased risk of CKD. Prevention strategies, early recognition, and prompt intervention are critical to mitigate kidney injury.

Efficacy and safety of micafungin in unrelated cord blood transplant recipients

Micafungin (MCFG) is an echinocandin antifungal drug used for prophylaxis and treatment of fungal infections after allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT). However, its efficacy and safety in patients undergoing cord blood transplantation (CBT) has not been clarified. We retrospectively analyzed the efficacy and safety of MCFG in 92 adult patients undergoing CBT in our institute. Of the entire cohort, 83 patients (90%) received MCFG for empirical or preemptive therapy. Documented breakthrough fungal infection occurred in 2 patients during MCFG treatment. Among the 49 patients who received MCFG as empirical therapy for febrile neutropenia, 41 (84%) patients had resolution of fever during neutropenia. Elevation of serum levels of hepatobiliary parameters during MCFG treatment was commonly observed, but grade 3 or higher elevation was rare. We also compared the efficacy and safety of 2 different initial daily doses of MCFG (150 mg vs. 300 mg). There were no significant differences of efficacy and safety between the two groups. These data suggest that MCFG was effective and safe for adult patients undergoing CBT. The optimal daily dose of MCFG treatment is a matter of future investigation for adult patients undergoing CBT.

Early fluid overload predicts higher non-relapse and overall mortality in adults after single-unit cord blood transplantation

Early fluid overload has been associated with poor transplant outcomes after allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation. However, its effects on the outcomes after cord blood transplantation (CBT) are unclear. We retrospectively analyzed the data of 227 adult patients who received single-unit CBT in our institute. The cumulative incidence of grade ≥2 fluid overload was 4% at day 30 after CBT with a median onset at 16 days (range, 9-30 days) after CBT. In the multivariate analysis, grade ≥2 fluid overload was significantly associated with higher non-relapse mortality (hazard ratio [HR], 5.73; P = 0.011) and overall mortality (HR, 3.81; P = 0.006). Among the entire cohort, 133 patients were treated with low-dose dopamine (0.5-2 µg/kg/min) with a median time of initiation of low-dose dopamine therapy at 10.5 days after CBT. Use of low-dose dopamine significantly increased daily urine output and decreased body weight. These data suggested that early fluid overload was significantly associated with non-relapse and overall mortality after single CBT. The early intervention of low-dose dopamine to prevent early fluid overload is a matter of future investigation for patients undergoing allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantations (HCT), particularly for CBT.

Single cord blood transplantation in Japan; expanding the possibilities of CBT

Cord blood (CB) has been an alternative stem cell source for patients with a wide variety of hematological diseases. Cord blood confers the advantages of rapid availability and higher tolerance to two HLA antigen mismatches compared with unrelated donors, and this has increased opportunities for patients who do not have suitable donors or require urgent transplantation. Although the higher rate of engraftment failure remains a serious concern after cord blood transplantation (CBT), the mechanisms underlying this risk have gradually been clarified, which has helped to improve engraftment. Recent studies of CBT and other alternatives have reported comparable outcomes. Moreover, CBT shows promise even when patients are in a non-remission status, which may reflect the potent graft-versus-leukemia effect of CB. Here we compare the most recent outcomes of CBT with those of other stem cell sources and discuss the potential of CB and several outstanding issues that require resolution.

Development of Pre-Engraftment Syndrome, but Not Acute Graft-versus-Host Disease, Reduces Relapse Rate of Acute Myelogenous Leukemia after Single Cord Blood Transplantation

The different effects of pre-engraftment syndrome (PES) and acute graft-versus-host disease (aGVHD) on outcomes after cord blood transplantation (CBT) are unclear. We retrospectively evaluated the impact of PES and aGVHD on relapse and survival after single-unit CBT in 138 adult patients with hematologic malignancies at our institution between 2004 and 2016. Multivariate analysis demonstrated that development of grade III-IV aGVHD, particularly with gut or liver involvement, significantly contributed to higher nonrelapse mortality (P < .001), but PES and grade II-IV aGVHD did not. In subgroup analyses of underlying disease type, the development of PES had a significant effect on decreased relapse (P = .032) and better disease-free survival (DFS) (P = .046) in patients with acute myelogenous leukemia (AML). These data suggest that PES is associated with a reduced relapse rate and better DFS in AML, indicating that the early immune reaction before neutrophil engraftment may provide a unique graft-versus-leukemia effect after single-unit CBT.

Platelet Transfusion Refractoriness in Single-Unit Cord Blood Transplantation for Adults: Risk Factors and Clinical Outcomes

Platelet transfusion refractoriness (PTR) is frequently observed after allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT). However, the incidence of and risk factors for PTR, and impact of PTR on transplant outcomes after cord blood transplantation (CBT) have not been fully investigated. We retrospectively analyzed 185 adult patients who received single-unit CBT in our institute. The mean 16-hour corrected count increment (CCI) for the 5840 platelet transfusions was 3.68 × 10⁹/L. Among them, 3196 transfusions (54.7%) were associated with a PTR with 16-hour-CCI <4.5 × 10⁹/L. Results of multivariate analysis indicated that the following factors were significantly associated with decreased platelet transfusion responses: female sex with pregnancy history, male sex, the presence of HLA class I antibody, lower cord blood total nucleated cell dose, lower cord blood CD34⁺ cell dose, 3 locus HLA disparities, body temperature ≥38°C, C-reactive protein ≥10 mg/dL, cytomegalovirus reactivation, use of foscarnet, and use of liposomal amphotericin B. By contrast, graft-versus-host disease prophylaxis including methotrexate, ABO minor mismatch, use of ganciclovir, and use of linezolid were significantly associated with better platelet transfusion responses. PTR had a significant effect on poor neutrophil and platelet recovery, and overall mortality after CBT. These data suggest that early phase PTR may be predictive of engraftment and mortality after single-unit CBT for adults.

Optimal Practices in Unrelated Donor Cord Blood Transplantation for Hematologic Malignancies

Unrelated donor cord blood transplantation (CBT) results in disease-free survival comparable to that of unrelated adult donor transplantation in patients with hematologic malignancies. Extension of allograft access to racial and ethnic minorities, rapid graft availability, flexibility of transplantation date, and low risks of disabling chronic graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) and relapse are significant advantages of CBT, and multiple series have reported a low risk of late transplantation-related mortality (TRM) post-transplantation. Nonetheless, early post-transplantation morbidity and TRM and the requirement for intensive early post-transplantation management have slowed the adoption of CBT. Targeted care strategies in CBT recipients can mitigate early transplantation complications and reduce transplantation costs. Herein we provide a practical "how to" guide to CBT for hematologic malignancies on behalf of the National Marrow Donor Program and the American Society of Blood and Marrow Transplantation's Cord Blood Special Interest Group. It shares the best practices of 6 experienced US transplantation centers with a special interest in the use of cord blood as a hematopoietic stem cell source. We address donor search and unit selection, unit thaw and infusion, conditioning regimens, immune suppression, management of GVHD, opportunistic infections, and other factors in supportive care appropriate for CBT. Meticulous attention to such details has improved CBT outcomes and will facilitate the success of CBT as a platform for future graft manipulations.

Association between C-reactive protein levels in the first 1-3 days post-transplant and allogeneic immune reactions

AIM

The purpose of this study was to determine whether C-reactive protein (CRP) in the first 1-3 days post-transplant could predict allogeneic immune reactions, including engraftment syndrome or acute graft-versus-host disease (GVHD), in pediatric haploidentical stem cell transplantation.

PATIENTS & METHODS

The study population comprised 175 consecutive pediatric patients. Receiver operating characteristic analysis was performed to identify the cut-off CRP value.

RESULTS

The high-CRP group (≥20.1 mg/l) was associated with an increased occurrence of engraftment syndrome (hazard ratio [HR] = 2.046; p = 0.008), II-IV acute GVHD (HR = 2.203; p = 0.001) and severe GVHD (HR = 6.371; p = 0.004).

CONCLUSION

Our data suggest that higher CRP during the first 1-3 days post-transplant could be a predictor of allogeneic immune reactions.

A Novel Reduced-Toxicity Myeloablative Conditioning Regimen Using Full-Dose Busulfan, Fludarabine, and Melphalan for Single Cord Blood Transplantation Provides Durable Engraftment and Remission in Nonremission Myeloid Malignancies

A pilot study of a novel, reduced-toxicity, myeloablative conditioning regimen using intravenous busulfan 12.8 mg/kg, fludarabine 180 mg/m(2), and melphalan 80 mg/m(2) for single cord blood transplantation (CBT) was conducted at our institution. Fifty-one patients with myeloid malignancies not in remission were included in this study. Their median age was 59 years (range, 19 to 70 years), with a median hematopoietic cell transplantation-specific comorbidity index score of 3. With a median observation period of 39.6 months (range, 24.3 to 90.8 months) among the survivors, overall survival and progression-free survival at 2 years were both 54.9%. Forty-six of 51 achieved neutrophil engraftment at a median of 19.5 days (range, 13 to 38 days) after transplantation, with a cumulative incidence of 90.2%. No patient developed graft rejection in this study. All patients who achieved engraftment showed hematological complete remission with complete donor chimerism. Eleven patients relapsed at a median of 4.9 months (range, .5 to 26.7 months). Cumulative incidences of nonrelapse mortality (NRM) at 100 days and 2 years were 11.8% and 25.5%, respectively. In conclusion, the present results show that the novel conditioning regimen for single CBT provided durable engraftment and remission with acceptable NRM leading to excellent survival, even for a relatively older population with myeloid malignancies not in remission.

Infusion of CD3/CD28 costimulated umbilical cord blood T cells at the time of single umbilical cord blood transplantation may enhance engraftment

Limited cell numbers in umbilical cord blood (UCB) grafts present a major impediment to favorable outcomes in adult transplantation, largely related to delayed or failed engraftment. The advent of UCB transplantation (UCBT) using two grafts successfully circumvents this obstacle, despite the engraftment of only one unit. Preclinical models suggested that the addition of UCB T cells at the time of transplant can enhance engraftment. We tested whether ex vivo activation by CD3/CD28 costimulation and expansion of T cells from a single UCB graft would be safe and feasible in adults with advanced hematologic malignancies, with an overall objective of optimizing engraftment in single unit UCBT. In this phase 1 study, recipients of single UCB units were eligible if the unit was stored in two adequate fractions. Dose limiting toxicity was defined as grade 3 or grade 4 GVHD within 90 days of UCBT. Four patients underwent UCBT; all were treated at the first dose level (10(5) cells/kg). At the 10(5) cells/kg dose level two subjects experienced grade 3 intestinal GVHD, thus meeting stopping criteria. For three subjects, neutrophil engraftment was early (12, 17, and 20 days), while one subject experienced primary graft failure. We observed early donor T cell trafficking and found that expanded T cells produced supraphysiologic levels of cytokines relevant to engraftment and to lymphoid differentiation and function. Taken together, these preliminary data suggest rapid engraftment in recipients of a single UCBT combined with relatively low doses of activated T cells, though potentially complicated by severe GVHD.

Engraftment syndrome in hematopoietic stem cell transplantations

Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) is an increasingly common treatment option for malignant and nonmalignant diseases, but it has significant associated morbidity and mortality. Nurses caring for HSCT recipients must be aware of all potential complications, including engraftment syndrome (ES). Previous nursing literature has included little information on this syndrome, which often presents with noninfectious fever, skin rash, and pulmonary infiltrates, and ES may be fatal if left unidentified and treatment is not initiated promptly. Reports of the risk factors, incidence, clinical manifestations, diagnosis, treatment, and outcomes have much variation, likely from a lack of definite diagnostic criteria and inconsistency in the terminology associated with ES. The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of ES and the implications for nursing practice and research.

Cutaneous lymphocyte antigen expression loss and PD1 positivity in early cutaneous lesions of rapidly progressive mycosis fungoides

Key Clinical Message

It's important to assess cases both clinically and pathologically for factors potentially predictive of an aggressive clinical course. We concluded that the relative immunosuppressive effects of PD1 may contribute to tumor progression while the lack of staining for cutaneous lymphocyte antigen may be an additional factor facilitating distant extracutaneous migration.

Cytomegalovirus infection in seropositive unrelated cord blood recipients: a study of 349 Korean patients

To gain insight into the natural history of cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection following unrelated cord blood transplantation (UCBT) in seropositive patients, we analyzed the data of 349 seropositive patients who received UCBT in Korea between 2000 and 2011. CMV reactivation occurred in 49 % (171/349) of the CMV-seropositive transplant recipients at a median of 31 days post UCBT. One hundred sixty-four out of 171 patients (96 %) received preemptive therapy. The median duration of CMV reactivation was 29 days. In multivariate analysis, weight >22 kg, use of total body irradiation, use of pre-transplant antithymocyte globulin, graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) prophylaxis with mycophenolate mofetil, and presence of grade II-IV acute GVHD were independent predictors of CMV reactivation. CMV reactivation did not impact transplantation-related mortality (TRM), leukemia relapse, or survival. CMV disease was diagnosed in 62 patients (17.8 %) at a median 55 days after UCBT. Longer duration of CMV reactivation was the only risk factor for progression to CMV disease (p = 0.01). CMV disease resulted in higher TRM (56.0 vs. 31.4 %, p < 0.01) and lower survival (36.1 vs. 55.1 %, p = 0.02).

Engraftment syndrome after allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation predicts poor outcomes

Engraftment syndrome (ES), characterized by fever, rash, pulmonary edema, weight gain, liver and renal dysfunction, and/or encephalopathy, occurs at the time of neutrophil recovery after hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT). In this study, we evaluated the incidence, clinical features, risk factors, and outcomes of ES in children and adults undergoing first-time allogeneic HCT. Among 927 patients, 119 (13%) developed ES at a median of 10 days (interquartile range 9 to 12) after HCT. ES patients experienced significantly higher cumulative incidence of grade 2 to 4 acute GVHD at day 100 (75% versus 34%, P < .001) and higher nonrelapse mortality at 2 years (38% versus 19%, P < .001) compared with non-ES patients, resulting in lower overall survival at 2 years (38% versus 54%, P < .001). There was no significant difference in relapse at 2 years (26% versus 31%, P = .772). Suppression of tumorigenicity 2, interleukin 2 receptor alpha, and tumor necrosis factor receptor 1 plasma biomarker levels were significantly elevated in ES patients. Our results illustrate the clinical significance and prognostic impact of ES on allogeneic HCT outcomes. Despite early recognition of the syndrome and prompt institution of corticosteroid therapy, outcomes in ES patients were uniformly poor. This study suggests the need for a prospective approach of collecting clinical features combined with correlative laboratory analyses to better characterize ES.

Engraftment syndrome after allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation in adults

We performed a retrospective study of the engraftment syndrome (ES) as defined by the Spitzer Criteria in adult patients undergoing allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) for various hematological malignancies at a single institution, over a decade, and analyzed its relationship to acute GVHD; 217 patients underwent either myeloablative (38.7%) or reduced intensity (61.3%) HCT; 22.1% met the criteria for ES. Acute GVHD prophylaxis (P = 0.006) and transplants prior to 2006 (P < 0.0001) were significantly associated with a risk of ES in univariable analysis. Early aGVHD within 4 weeks of engraftment was significantly more common in the ES compared to the non ES cohort (21 vs. 8.3% respectively, P = 0.02). ES did not predict for future GVHD, as at day +180, the cumulative incidences of grades II-IV aGVHD (31 vs. 23%, P = 0.19) and of chronic GVHD at 2 years of engraftment (42 vs. 36%, P = 0.28) were not significantly different between the ES and non ES groups, respectively. No significant differences in NRM, overall survival and progression-free survival were observed between the two groups. Although predictive of early aGVHD, ES occurred independently of GVHD in 79% of the patients. Survival outcomes should be evaluated in a larger randomized study to investigate if there is a correlation with ES.

Pulmonary manifestations of the pre-engraftment syndrome after umbilical cord blood transplantation

Pre-engraftment syndrome (PES) is a condition occurring after umbilical cord blood transplantation (UCBT) characterized by fever and erythematous skin rash prior to neutrophil engraftment. We sought to determine the incidence and characterize the pulmonary manifestations of PES. A retrospective review of patients who underwent UCBT at the University of Kansas Medical Center over a 5-year period was performed. Data collected included patient baseline characteristics, presence of PES, pulmonary findings, treatments, and survival. Forty-four patients underwent UCBT with 22 of those patients developing PES. Full-intensity myeloablative conditioning regimen was found to be a risk factor for development of PES. Of those 22 patients, 13 had resting hypoxemia. The most common radiographic findings included diffuse ground glass opacities with pleural effusions. Fifteen patients with PES received corticosteroids, of which 12 had improvement in fevers and rash. These patients had a trend toward worse mortality than those not receiving corticosteroids. There was a nonsignificant trend toward worse survival in patients with PES and hypoxemia compared to those without hypoxemia. PES is a common complication following cord blood transplantation, with hypoxemia being present in over half of patients with PES. Hypoxemia with PES and treatment with corticosteroids may portend a worse prognosis.

Pre-engraftment syndrome after myeloablative dual umbilical cord blood transplantation: risk factors and response to treatment

High fevers and/or rashes prior to neutrophil engraftment are frequently observed after umbilical cord blood (UCB) transplantation, and the condition is referred to as pre-engraftment syndrome (PES). Few studies have evaluated the risk factors for and treatment response to PES. Therefore, we retrospectively characterized PES in 57 consecutive engrafted patients (≥ 12 years old) who received myeloablative dual UCB transplantation. All patients received TBI (≥ 13.2 Gy)-based myeloablative conditioning. Tacrolimus (n=35) or CYA (n=22) combined with mycophenolate mofetil was used as GVHD prophylaxis. PES was defined as the presence of non-infectious fever (≥ 38.5 °C) and/or rash prior to or on the day of neutrophil engraftment. The incidence (95% confidence interval) of PES was 77% (66-88%). The incidence of PES was significantly higher in patients who received CYA as a GVHD prophylaxis than those who received tacrolimus (P<0.001), and this association was confirmed in the multivariate analysis. The occurrence of PES did not impact OS or tumor relapse, although it may have increased non-relapse mortality (P=0.071). The incidence of acute GHVD or treatment-related mortality was not influenced by the choice to use corticosteroids to treat PES. This study suggests that use of CYA for GVHD prophylaxis increases the risk of PES following dual UCB transplantation.

Peri-engraftment syndrome in allogeneic hematopoietic SCT

Engraftment syndrome (ES) and pre-engraftment syndrome (pre-ES) are both inflammatory conditions that occur after hematopoietic SCT (HSCT) and are characterized by non-infectious fever and skin rash. Although the pathogenesis is not fully understood, both syndromes are similar, and could be defined as a new clinical syndrome, named as peri-engraftment syndrome (peri-ES). We retrospectively analyzed the clinical records in 176 pediatric patients, following allogeneic HSCT. We utilized the definition of ES by Spitzer as the diagnostic criteria, excluding 'within 96 h of engraftment' criteria. Thirty cases developed peri-ES with a cumulative incidence of 17.0%. High cumulative incidence (50%) was seen in patients who underwent a double-unit cord blood transplantation (DUCBT; P<0.01). Clinical findings of peri-ES are similar, regardless of the onset day, and encephalopathy was the most severe complication. In the DUCBT cohort, the use of TBI and early complete chimerism (≤ day 21) were identified as risk factors that predispose the development of peri-ES. We determined that both, ES and pre-ES, might have similar causes, which could be included in peri-ES. Particularly, it occurred more in DUCBT patients, which means that not only neutrophil engraftment but also immune reactions within the two units might contribute to peri-ES.

Omission of in vivo T-cell depletion promotes rapid expansion of naïve CD4+ cord blood lymphocytes and restores adaptive immunity within 2 months after unrelated cord blood transplant

Umbilical cord blood transplant (UCBT) is associated with impaired early immune reconstitution. This might be explained by a lower T-cell dose infused, the naivety of cord blood T-cells and the use of in vivo T-cell depletion. We studied the pattern of early immune reconstitution and the clinical outcome of children undergoing unrelated UCBT when in vivo T-cell depletion was omitted. Thirty children affected by malignancies (46%) or immunodeficiencies (54%) underwent an unrelated UCBT. Prospective assessment of immune reconstitution and clinical outcome was performed. We observed an unprecedented CD4(+) T-cell reconstitution, with a median cell count at 30 and 60 d post UCBT of 0.3 × 10(9) /l and 0.56 × 10(9) /l, respectively. Early T-cell expansion was thymic-independent, with a rapid shift from naïve to central memory phenotype and early regulatory T-cell recovery. Viral infections were frequent (63%) but resolved rapidly in most cases and virus-specific T-lymphocytes were detected within 2 months post-UCBT. Acute graft-versus-host disease (GvHD) was frequent (grade II = 34%, grade III-IV = 16%) but steroid responsive, and the incidence of chronic GvHD was low (14%). The omission of in vivo T-cell depletion promotes a unique thymic-independent CD4(+) T-cell reconstitution after unrelated UCBT in children. We postulate that this relates to the specific immunological and ontological qualities of fetal-derived lymphocytes.

Pre-engraftment syndrome after unrelated donor umbilical cord blood transplantation in patients with hematologic malignancies

Pre-engraftment syndrome (PES) after umbilical cord blood transplantation (CBT) remains poorly characterized, and the prognosis and appropriate management are unclear. Therefore, we retrospectively analyzed the incidence, risk factors, manifestations, and clinical outcomes of PES in CBT recipients, who had been treated for hematologic malignancies at our transplantation center. PES was defined as unexplained fever higher than 38.3°C that is not associated with documented infection and unresponsive to antimicrobial manipulations and/or unexplained erythematous skin rash occurring prior to neutrophil engraftment. A total of 81 patients (median 18 yr, range 3-48) received either myeloablative (n=72) or non-myeloablative (n=9) conditioning. Neutrophil engraftment was achieved in 69 of the 81 cases [86.2%, 95% confidence interval (CI)=78.9-94.1%], and the median time to more than 0.5 × 10(9) /L ANC was 19 d (range, 12-39). Fifty-one patients (63.0%) developed PES at a median of 7d (range 3-15) post-transplant: 46 patients had both rash and unexplained fever; one patient had unexplained fever alone; and four patients had rash only. Forty-seven patients (92.2%) received IV methylprednisolone (MP) at a median dose of 1 mg/kg (range 0.4-3). All patients treated with MP responded as evidenced by fever resolution combined with resolution of rash. All patients with PES had high serum levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), which were significantly reduced after effective steroid treatment. Univariate analysis identified myeloablative conditioning and younger age as significant risk factors for developing PES. Cumulative incidence of grade II-IV acute graft-versus-host disease (aGVHD) in the PES+ and PES- groups was 51.5% (95% CI=38.0-70.0%) and 17.0% (95% CI=6.9-41.7%), respectively. In a multivariate analysis, we found significantly increased risk of grade II-IV aGVHD among PES patients (P=0.041). However, PES was not associated with sustained donor engraftment, the day to neutrophil recovery, chronic graft-versus-host disease, transplant-related mortality at day 180, and overall survival. Despite of the inherent limitations of this small retrospective study, PES seemed to be common after CBT and associated with high incidence of aGVHD.

Immune Reactions following Cord Blood Transplantations in Adults

Cord blood transplantation (CBT) is an attractive alternative therapy in adult patients with advanced hematological malignancies in whom matched donors are unavailable. However, the risk of complications, especially infections, post-CBT increases the mortality rates in these patients. Although the incidence of acute and chronic graft versus host disease (GVHD) post-CBT is lower than that following bone marrow transplantation and peripheral blood stem cell transplantation (SCT), the additional immunosuppressive therapy required to treat it could increase the mortality in these patients. Further, chronic GVHD following CBT is milder and responds better to treatment than that occurring after bone marrow transplants. Unlike bone marrow transplantation, the onset of GVHD is a positive prognostic indicator of overall survival in patients receiving CBT, due to the graft versus malignancy (GVM) effect. This paper focuses on the immune reactions following CBT and aims to elucidate a management strategy for acute and chronic GVHD.

An overview of the progress on double umbilical cord blood transplantation

Umbilical cord blood transplantation has been increasingly used over the past years for both malignant and non-malignant hematologic and other diseases as an alternative to mismatched-related or matched-unrelated bone marrow or peripheral blood hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. A disadvantage of cord blood is its low cell content which limits cord blood transplantation to generally low weight recipients, such as children. Various alternatives have been used to overcome this limitation, including co-infusion of two partially HLA-matched cord blood units. According to Eurocord Registry data, this strategy has been applied in approximately 993 adult patients with hematologic diseases since the first double umbilical cord blood transplantation in 1999. In fact, since 2005, the number of adult patients receiving double umbilical cord blood transplantation has surpassed the number of adults transplanted with single cord blood units. The engraftment rate is comparable for both single and double umbilical cord blood transplantation, although the latter is accompanied by a higher incidence of grade II acute graft-versus-host disease and lower leukemia relapse for patients in first complete remission. In the majority of patients undergoing double umbilical cord blood transplantation, transient chimerism, due to the presence of cells from both donor units early post transplant, is replaced by sustained dominance of one unit from which long-term hematopoiesis is derived. Although the biology and the factors that determine unit dominance have not been clarified, the implication of immune-mediated mechanisms has been reported. Preliminary data have demonstrated the safety of double umbilical cord blood transplantation. Ongoing clinical trials and prolonged follow up of the patients will clarify the immunology and determine the efficacy of this approach. We present here a brief overview of the clinical experience on double umbilical cord blood transplantation and its underlying biology.

Serious infection risk and immune recovery after double-unit cord blood transplantation without antithymocyte globulin

Factors contributing to infection risk after cord blood transplantation (CBT) include the use of anti-thymocyte globulin (ATG), prolonged neutropenia, and failure to transfer immunity. In the present study, we investigated the potential of double-unit CBT without ATG to reduce the risk of infection and evaluated the nature of serious infections in the first year after CBT using this approach. Seventy-two predominantly adult patients underwent CBT for hematologic malignancies; of these, 52 patients received myeloablative conditioning, and 20 received nonmyeloablative conditioning. The peak incidences of bacterial infections (32%), fungal infections (14%), and bacterial/fungal pneumonias (10%) occurred in the first 30 days posttransplantation. Three such infections contributed to early mortality. The peak incidence of viral infections was 31-60 days posttransplantation, affecting 30% of patients. Cytomegalovirus (CMV) was the most common viral infection. CMV infections occurring before day 120 (n = 23) had no relationship with graft-versus-host disease (GVHD), whereas CMV infections occurring after day 120 (n = 5), along with all cases of Epstein-Barr virus viremia (n = 5) and adenoviral enteritis (n = 2), occurred exclusively in the context of GVHD therapy or corticosteroid use for another indication. Viral infections had the highest lethality: 2 were a direct cause of death, and 3 contributed to death. Patients exhibited steady immune recovery, achieving a median CD3(+)4(+) T cell count >200 cells/μL by day 120 post-CBT, and no infection-related deaths occurred after day 120. Our results suggest that double-unit CBT without ATG is associated with prompt T cell recovery, and, unlike in CBT incorporating ATG, infection is rarely a primary cause of death. However, CBT without ATG is associated with a significant risk of GVHD, and serious infections remain a challenge, especially in the setting of GVHD. New strategies are needed to further reduce infectious complications after CBT; these will require earlier neutrophil recovery and more effective prevention of GVHD, ideally without the profound T cell depletion associated with ATG therapy.

[Allogeneic cord blood transplantation for adults: current results and future development]

Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation is the choice treatment of many hematopoietic disorders. However, there is still no related or HLA-matched unrelated donor for one-third of the patients. Cord blood, which contains a lot of hematopoietic progenitors immunologically naive, represents not only an interesting alternative as hematopoietic stem cell source but also allows more HLA incompatibilities than the other sources. Promising results in children lead to develop cord blood transplantation in adults first of all in hematopoietic malignancies (acute leukemias and lymphoid diseases) and in a second time, in non-malignant diseases such as aplastic anaemia. The main problems for the development of this new strategy in adults are the poor number of cells per unit, the delay for hematopoietic recovery in comparison with other hematopoietic stem cell sources and, consequently higher transplant related mortality. In order to improve the results in adults, new strategies emerged. Double cord blood transplantation, expansion methods and intra-bone injection of the graft will be reviewed here, as well as alternative transplantation strategies such as non-myeloablative conditioning.