Late Effects Surveillance Recommendations among Survivors of Childhood Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation: A Children's Oncology Group Report

Idiopathic Pneumonitis Syndrome After Total Body Irradiation in Pediatric Patients Undergoing Myeloablative Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation: A PENTEC Comprehensive Review

PURPOSE

Pulmonary complications, especially idiopathic pneumonitis syndrome (IPS), are potentially life altering or fatal sequelae of hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT). Total body irradiation (TBI) as part of the conditioning regimen has been implicated in IPS. A comprehensive PENTEC (Pediatric Normal Tissues in the Clinic) review was performed to increase our understanding of the role of TBI in the development of acute, noninfectious IPS.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

A systematic literature search was conducted using the MEDLINE, PubMed, and Cochrane library databases for articles describing pulmonary toxicity in children treated with HCT. Data pertaining to TBI and pulmonary endpoints were extracted. Risk of IPS was analyzed in relation to patient age, TBI dose, fractionation, dose rate, lung shielding, timing, and type of transplant, with the goal to better understand factors associated with this complication in children undergoing HCT. A logistic regression model was developed using a subset of studies with comparable transplant regimens and sufficient TBI data.

RESULTS

Six studies met criteria for modeling of the correlation of TBI parameters with IPS; all consisted of pediatric patients undergoing allogeneic HCT with a cyclophosphamide-based chemotherapy regimen. IPS was variably defined, but all studies that reported IPS were included in this analysis. The mean incidence of post-HCT IPS was 16% (range, 4%-41%). Mortality from IPS, when it occurred, was high (median, 50%; range, 45%-100%). Fractionated TBI prescription doses encompassed a narrow range of 9 to 14 Gy. Many differing TBI methods were reported, and there was an absence of 3-dimensional dose analysis of lung blocking techniques. Thus, a univariate correlation between IPS and total TBI dose, dose fractionation, dose rate, or TBI technique could not be made. However, a model, built from these studies based on prescribed dose using a normalized dose parameter of equivalent dose in 2-Gy fractions (EQD2), adjusted for dose rate, suggested correlation with the development of IPS (P = .0004). The model-predicted odds ratio for IPS was 24.3 Gy-1 (95% confidence interval, 7.0-84.3). Use of TBI lung dose metrics (eg, midlung point dose) could not be successfully modeled, potentially because of dosimetric uncertainties in the actual delivered volumetric lung dose and imperfections in our modeling process.

CONCLUSIONS

This PENTEC report is a comprehensive review of IPS in pediatric patients receiving fractionated TBI regimens for allogenic HCT. IPS was not clearly associated with 1 single TBI factor. Modeling using dose-rate adjusted EQD2 showed a response with IPS for allogeneic HCT using a cyclophosphamide-based chemotherapy regimen. Therefore, this model suggests IPS mitigation strategies can focus on not just the dose and dose per fraction but also the dose rate used in TBI. More data are needed to confirm this model and to determine the influence of chemotherapy regimens and contribution from graft-versus-host disease. The presence of confounding variables (eg, systemic chemotherapies) that affect risk, the narrow range of fractionated TBI doses found in the literature, and limitations of other reported data (eg, lung point dose) may have prevented a more straightforward link between IPS and total dose from being observed.

International recommendations for screening and preventative practices for long-term survivors of transplantation and cellular therapy: a 2023 update

As hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) and cellular therapy expand to new indications and international access improves, the volume of HCT performed annually continues to rise. Parallel improvements in HCT techniques and supportive care entails more patients surviving long-term, creating further emphasis on survivorship needs. Survivors are at risk for developing late complications secondary to pre-, peri- and post-transplant exposures and other underlying risk-factors. Guidelines for screening and preventive practices for HCT survivors were originally published in 2006 and updated in 2012. To review contemporary literature and update the recommendations while considering the changing practice of HCT and cellular therapy, an international group of experts was again convened. This review provides updated pediatric and adult survivorship guidelines for HCT and cellular therapy. The contributory role of chronic graft-versus-host disease (cGVHD) to the development of late effects is discussed but cGVHD management is not covered in detail. These guidelines emphasize special needs of patients with distinct underlying HCT indications or comorbidities (e.g., hemoglobinopathies, older adults) but do not replace more detailed group, disease, or condition specific guidelines. Although these recommendations should be applicable to the vast majority of HCT recipients, resource constraints may limit their implementation in some settings.

Cardiovascular Management of Patients Undergoing Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation: From Pretransplantation to Survivorship: A Scientific Statement From the American Heart Association

Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation can cure various disorders but poses cardiovascular risks, especially for elderly patients and those with cardiovascular diseases. Cardiovascular evaluations are crucial in pretransplantation assessments, but guidelines are lacking. This American Heart Association scientific statement summarizes the data on transplantation-related complications and provides guidance for the cardiovascular management throughout transplantation. Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation consists of 4 phases: pretransplantation workup, conditioning therapy and infusion, immediate posttransplantation period, and long-term survivorship. Complications can occur during each phase, with long-term survivors facing increased risks for late effects such as cardiovascular disease, secondary malignancies, and endocrinopathies. In adults, arrhythmias such as atrial fibrillation and flutter are the most frequent acute cardiovascular complication. Acute heart failure has an incidence ranging from 0.4% to 2.2%. In pediatric patients, left ventricular systolic dysfunction and pericardial effusion are the most common cardiovascular complications. Factors influencing the incidence and risk of complications include pretransplantation therapies, transplantation type (autologous versus allogeneic), conditioning regimen, comorbid conditions, and patient age. The pretransplantation cardiovascular evaluation consists of 4 steps: (1) initial risk stratification, (2) exclusion of high-risk cardiovascular disease, (3) assessment of cardiac reserve, and (4) optimization of cardiovascular reserve. Clinical risk scores could be useful tools for the risk stratification of adult patients. Long-term cardiovascular management of hematopoietic stem cell transplantation survivors includes optimizing risk factors, monitoring, and maintaining a low threshold for evaluating cardiovascular causes of symptoms. Future research should prioritize refining risk stratification and creating evidence-based guidelines and strategies to optimize outcomes in this growing patient population.

Oral complications in a paediatric graft versus host disease (GVHD) clinic: A retrospective study

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to investigate the oral health status among allogeneic transplant recipients who were seen in a multidisciplinary graft-versus-host disease paediatric clinic at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF).

METHODS

This was a retrospective cohort study of patients who underwent allogeneic transplants and were seen in the graft-versus-host disease paediatric clinic between January 2010 and September 2021. Demographic, medical and oral health data were recorded and analysed using descriptive statistics.

RESULTS

A total of 25 patients were seen in the paediatric graft-versus-host disease clinic (68% males) with a median age of 12 years at the time of transplant were included. Among them, 12 patients (48%) were diagnosed with oral chronic GVHD, 11 (44%) with dry mouth, four (16%) with oral pseudomembranous candidiasis, one (4%) with recrudescent Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) infection and one (4%) with mammalian target of rapamycin-inhibitor stomatitis and were managed by the oral medicine team, accordingly with medications, such as topical steroids (44%) and anti-fungal (20%).

CONCLUSIONS

HSCT recipients may present with a variety of oral complications. Patients may benefit by a multi-disciplinary approach including a dental specialist as part of the cancer care team.

International Recommendations for Screening and Preventative Practices for Long-Term Survivors of Transplantation and Cellular Therapy: A 2023 Update

As hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) and cellular therapy expand to new indications and international access improves, the number of HCTs performed annually continues to rise. Parallel improvements in HCT techniques and supportive care entails more patients surviving long term, creating further emphasis on survivorship needs. Survivors are at risk for developing late complications secondary to pretransplantation, peritransplantation, and post-transplantation exposures and other underlying risk factors. Guidelines for screening and preventive practices for HCT survivors were originally published in 2006 and then updated in 2012. An international group of experts was convened to review the contemporary literature and update the recommendations while considering the changing practices of HCT and cellular therapy. This review provides updated pediatric and adult survivorship guidelines for HCT and cellular therapy. The contributory role of chronic graft-versus-host disease (cGVHD) to the development of late effects is discussed, but cGVHD management is not covered in detail. These guidelines emphasize the special needs of patients with distinct underlying HCT indications or comorbidities (eg, hemoglobinopathies, older adults) but do not replace more detailed group-, disease-, or condition-specific guidelines. Although these recommendations should be applicable to the vast majority of HCT recipients, resource constraints may limit their implementation in some settings.

Long-Term Complications after Allogeneic Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation with Treosulfan- or Busulfan-Based Conditioning in Pediatric Patients with Acute Leukemia or Myelodysplastic Syndrome: Results of an Associazione Italiana Ematologia Oncologia Pediatrica Retrospective Study

Patients undergoing hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) for hematologic malignancies during childhood have an increased risk of developing long-term sequelae that are in part attributable to the conditioning regimen. The present study aimed to assess the occurrence of long-term toxicities in a population of children who underwent HSCT for hematologic malignancies using either treosulfan or busulfan in the conditioning regimen. The cumulative incidences of growth impairment, altered gonadal function, altered thyroid function, cataracts, secondary malignant neoplasia, and altered pulmonary function were evaluated retrospectively by univariable and multivariable analyses in a population of 521 pediatric patients with acute leukemias or myelodysplastic syndromes treated in 20 Italian transplant centers affiliated with the Associazione Italiana Ematologia ed Oncologia Pediatrica (AIEOP). The median duration of follow-up for the entire study population was 7.1 years (range, 1 to 16 years). Overall, a larger proportion of patients given busulfan developed long-term toxicities compared to patients treated with treosulfan (34% versus 20%; P = .01). In univariable analysis, gonadal toxicity developed in 10% of patients who received treosulfan (95% confidence interval [CI], 3% to 15%), compared with 38% (95% CI, 24% to 39%) of busulfan-treated patients (P = .02), and this finding was confirmed by multivariable analysis (relative risk, .51; 95% CI, .34 to .76; P = .0009). We did not find any statistically significant associations between the occurrence of other long-term toxicities and the use of either busulfan or treosulfan. This study provides evidence that the use of treosulfan is correlated with a reduced incidence of gonadal toxicity in children undergoing HSCT for hematologic malignancies.

The Implementation of Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR) T-cell Therapy in Pediatric Patients: Where Did We Come From, Where Are We Now, and Where are We Going?

CD19-directed Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy has revolutionized the treatment of patients with B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL). Somewhat uniquely among oncologic clinical trials, early clinical development occurred simultaneously in both children and adults. In subsequent years however, the larger number of adult patients with relapsed/refractory (r/r) malignancies has led to accelerated development of multiple CAR T-cell products that target a variety of malignancies, resulting in six currently FDA-approved for adult patients. By comparison, only a single CAR-T cell therapy is approved by the FDA for pediatric patients: tisagenlecleucel, which is approved for patients ≤ 25 years with refractory B-cell precursor ALL, or B-cell ALL in second or later relapse. Tisagenlecleucel is also under evaluation in pediatric patients with relapsed/refractory B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma, but is not yet been approved for this indication. All the other FDA-approved CD19-directed CAR-T cell therapies available for adult patients (axicabtagene ciloleucel, brexucabtagene autoleucel, and lisocabtagene maraleucel) are currently under investigations among children, with preliminary results available in some cases. As the volume and complexity of data continue to grow, so too does the necessity of rapid assimilation and implementation of those data. This is particularly true when considering "atypical" situations, e.g. those arising when patients do not precisely conform to the profile of those included in pivotal clinical trials, or when alternative treatment options (e.g. hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) or bispecific T-cell engagers (BITEs)) are also available. We have therefore developed a relevant summary of the currently available literature pertaining to the use of CD19-directed CAR-T cell therapies in pediatric patients, and sought to provide guidance for clinicians seeking additional data about specific clinical situations.

Recommendations for surveillance of pulmonary dysfunction among childhood, adolescent, and young adult cancer survivors: a report from the International Late Effects of Childhood Cancer Guideline Harmonization Group

Childhood, adolescent, and young adult (CAYA) cancer survivors are at risk of pulmonary dysfunction. Current follow-up care guidelines are discordant. Therefore, the International Late Effects of Childhood Cancer Guideline Harmonization Group established and convened a panel of 33 experts to develop evidence-based surveillance guidelines. We critically reviewed available evidence regarding risk factors for pulmonary dysfunction, types of pulmonary function testing, and timings of surveillance, then we formulated our recommendations. We recommend that CAYA cancer survivors and healthcare providers are aware of reduced pulmonary function risks and pay vigilant attention to potential symptoms of pulmonary dysfunction, especially among survivors treated with allogeneic haematopoietic stem cell transplantation, thoracic radiotherapy, and thoracic surgery. Based on existing limited evidence and current lack of interventions, our panel recommends pulmonary function testing only for symptomatic survivors. Since scarce existing evidence informs our recommendation, we highlight the need for prospective collaborative studies to address pulmonary function knowledge gaps among CAYA cancer survivors.

Posttransplantation late complications increase over time for patients with SCID: A Primary Immune Deficiency Treatment Consortium (PIDTC) landmark study

BACKGROUND

The Primary Immune Deficiency Treatment Consortium (PIDTC) enrolled children in the United States and Canada onto a retrospective multicenter natural history study of hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT).

OBJECTIVE

We investigated outcomes of HCT for severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID).

METHODS

We evaluated the chronic and late effects (CLE) after HCT for SCID in 399 patients transplanted from 1982 to 2012 at 32 PIDTC centers. Eligibility criteria included survival to at least 2 years after HCT without need for subsequent cellular therapy. CLE were defined as either conditions present at any time before 2 years from HCT that remained unresolved (chronic), or new conditions that developed beyond 2 years after HCT (late).

RESULTS

The cumulative incidence of CLE was 25% in those alive at 2 years, increasing to 41% at 15 years after HCT. CLE were most prevalent in the neurologic (9%), neurodevelopmental (8%), and dental (8%) categories. Chemotherapy-based conditioning was associated with decreased-height z score at 2 to 5 years after HCT (P < .001), and with endocrine (P < .001) and dental (P = .05) CLE. CD4 count of ≤500 cells/μL and/or continued need for immunoglobulin replacement therapy >2 years after transplantation were associated with lower-height z scores. Continued survival from 2 to 15 years after HCT was 90%. The presence of any CLE was associated with increased risk of late death (hazard ratio, 7.21; 95% confidence interval, 2.71-19.18; P < .001).

CONCLUSION

Late morbidity after HCT for SCID was substantial, with an adverse impact on overall survival. This study provides evidence for development of survivorship guidelines based on disease characteristics and treatment exposure for patients after HCT for SCID.

Busulfan and subsequent malignancy: An evidence-based risk assessment

BACKGROUND

The incidence of secondary malignancies associated with busulfan exposure is considered low, but has been poorly characterized. Because this alkylating agent is increasingly utilized as conditioning prior to gene therapy in nonmalignant hematologic and related disorders, more precise characterization of busulfan's potential contribution to subsequent malignant risk is warranted.

PROCEDURE

We conducted a literature-based assessment of busulfan and subsequent late effects, with emphasis on secondary malignancies, identifying publications via PubMed searches, and selecting those reporting at least 3 years of follow-up.

RESULTS

We identified eight pediatric and 13 adult publications describing long-term follow-up in 570 pediatric and 2076 adult hematopoietic cell transplant (HCT) recipients. Secondary malignancies were reported in 0.5% of pediatric HCT recipients, with no cases of myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) or acute myelocytic leukemia (AML). Fatal secondary malignancies were reported in 0.8% of 1887 evaluable adult HCT recipients, and an overall incidence of secondary malignancies of 4.8% was reported in a subset of 389 evaluable adult patients. We also reviewed long-term results from eight publications evaluating lentiviral- and human promotor-based HSC-targeted gene therapy in 215 patients with nonmalignant conditions, in which busulfan/treosulfan monotherapy or busulfan/fludarabine was the only conditioning. Two malignancies were reported in patients with sickle cell disease (SCD), one of which was potentially busulfan-related. No additional malignancies were reported in 173 patients with follow-up of 5-12 years.

CONCLUSION

The incidence of busulfan-related secondary malignancies is low, and likely to be substantially less than 1% in pediatric transplant recipients, especially those receiving busulfan monotherapy for nonmalignant conditions other than SCD.

Early and Late Toxicities of Chimeric Antigen Receptor T-Cells

As chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy is increasingly integrated into clinical practice across a range of malignancies, identifying and treating inflammatory toxicities will be vital to success. Early experiences with CD19-targeted CAR T-cell therapy identified cytokine release syndrome and neurotoxicity as key acute toxicities and led to unified initiatives to mitigate the influence of these complications. In this section, we provide an update on the current state of CAR T-cell-related toxicities, with an emphasis on emerging acute toxicities affecting additional organ systems and considerations for delayed toxicities and late effects.

Impact of Graft Function on Health Status and Quality of Life in Very Long-Term Survivors Who Received an HSCT for Inborn Errors of Immunity, a Prospective Study of the CEREDIH

The overall survival rate after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) for inborn errors of immunity (IEI) has improved considerably, and its indications have broadened. As a consequence, addressing the issue of long-term health-related quality of life (HRQoL) has become crucial. Our study focuses on the health and HRQoL of post-HSCT survivors. We conducted a multicenter prospective follow-up study enrolling IEI patients who underwent transplantation in childhood before 2009. Self-reported data from the French Childhood Immune Deficiency Long-term Cohort and the 36-item Short Form questionnaires were compiled. One hundred twelve survivors were included with a median duration period from HSCT of 15 years (range 5-37), of whom 55 underwent transplantation for a combined immunodeficiency. We show that in patients evaluated at least 5 years after HSCT, 55% are still affected by a poor or very poor health status. Poor and very poor health status correlated with an abnormal graft function, defined as host or mixed chimerism, abnormal CD3+ count, or diagnosis of chronic graft-versus-host disease (poor health: odds ratio [OR] = 2.6, 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.1-5.9, P = .028; very poor health: OR = 3.6, 95% CI, 1.1-13, P = .049). Poor health was directly linked to a poorer HRQoL. Significant improvements in graft procedures have translated into better survival rates, but we show here that about half of the transplanted patients remain affected by an altered health status with a correlation to both abnormal graft function and impaired HRQoL. Additional studies are needed to confirm the impact of those improvements on long-term health status and HRQoL.

Reduced-Intensity Conditioning Mitigates Risk for Primary Ovarian Insufficiency but Does Not Decrease Risk for Infertility in Pediatric and Young Adult Survivors of Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation

Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) is a curative therapy for many pediatric malignant and nonmalignant conditions. Gonadal insufficiency or infertility is present in almost all HSCT survivors who received a myeloablative conditioning (MAC) regimen. Reduced-intensity conditioning (RIC) regimens are being increasingly used in medically fragile patients or in patients with nonmalignant diagnoses to limit the toxicities associated with HSCT; however, the short-term and long-term gonadal toxicity of RIC regimens in pediatric and young adult survivors remains unknown. In this study, we compared the prevalence of gonadal insufficiency and infertility among pubertal and postpubertal pediatric and young adult survivors of HSCT who received a RIC regimen versus those who received a MAC regimen. Twenty-three females (RIC, n = 8; MAC, n = 15) and 35 males (RIC, n = 19; MAC, n = 16) were included in this single-center, retrospective cross-sectional study. Eligible patients were those with available laboratory results who were ≥1 year post-HSCT, age <40 years, and pubertal or postpubertal as assessed by an endocrinologist. Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), estradiol, and anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) levels were measured in females, and FSH, LH, total testosterone, and inhibin B (InhB) levels were measured in males. Twenty-one males (RIC, n = 11; MAC, n = 10) underwent semen analysis through a separate consent. Parametric and nonparametric analyses were undertaken to compare the RIC and MAC groups. Female patients who received RIC were less likely than those who received MAC to develop primary ovarian insufficiency, as demonstrated by elevated FSH (P = .02) and low estradiol (P = .01) or elevated LH (P = .09). Most females in the RIC (75%) and MAC (93%) groups had low AMH levels, indicating low or absent ovarian reserve, with no significant difference between the groups (P = .53). In males, there were no significant differences between the 2 groups in the prevalence of abnormal FSH, LH, testosterone, or InhB levels. Ten of 11 RIC males (91%) and 10 of 10 MAC males (100%) had azoospermia or oligospermia, at a median time to semen analysis from HSCT of 3.7 years (range, 1.3 to 12.2 years). RIC may pose less risk than MAC for primary ovarian insufficiency among female survivors of HSCT; however, both female and male recipients of either RIC or MAC regimens are at high risk for infertility. In the largest reported series of semen analyses of pediatric and young adult male recipients of RIC, azoospermia or oligospermia was found in nearly all (91%) RIC survivors. All patients undergoing HSCT should receive counseling about the high risk of gonadal toxicity, and efforts should be made to preserve fertility in patients undergoing either RIC or MAC.

Endocrine complications after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation during childhood-Results from a close follow-up in a cohort of 152 patients

CONTEXT

Haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) is a therapeutic option for numerous haematologic diseases and solid tumours. Increasing indications for HSCT and reduction in associated mortality have been raising the number of paediatric HSCT survivors and their long-term toxicities.

OBJECTIVE

To characterize the endocrine disorders developed after HSCT.

DESIGN AND PATIENTS

Retrospective analysis of 152 patients submitted to HSCT in paediatric age with at least 24 months of follow-up at our endocrine late-effects clinics.

RESULTS

Patients were followed up for 9.9 (interquartile range [IQR]: 12.2) years. The median age at HSCT was 7.5 (IQR: 9) years. At least one endocrine complication was observed in 65.1% of the patients. Primary hypogonadism was detected in 34.2%. Female gender (p < .001), HSCT > 10 years old (p = .01) and chemotherapy before HSCT (p < .001) were identified as risk factors for developing gonadal dysfunction. Growth hormone deficiency (GHD) occurred in 23.0% with a mean stature Z-score at diagnosis of -1.8 ± 1.4. GHD was associated with cranial (p < .001) and HSCT < 10 years old (p ≤ 0.001). Patients who were exposed to total body irradiation (TBI) were at higher risk for primary hypothyroidism (22.3%) (p = .01), thyroid nodules (17.1%) (p < .001), thyroid carcinoma (5.3%) (p < .001), dyslipidaemia (19.1%) (p < .001) and disturbance of carbohydrate metabolism (19.1%) (p < .001).

CONCLUSION

At least one endocrine complication was diagnosed in 65.1% of patients, with gonadal dysfunction being the most prevalent. The conditioning regimen with TBI was a risk factor for the development of several endocrine disorders. This study is one of the largest series evaluating the endocrine disorders among survivors of paediatric HSCT and intends to reinforce the importance of routine follow-up of these patients.

Chronic conditions, late mortality, and health status after childhood AML: a Childhood Cancer Survivor Study report

Five-year survival following childhood acute myeloid leukemia (AML) has increased following improvements in treatment and supportive care. Long-term health outcomes are unknown. To address this, cumulative incidence of late mortality and grades 3 to 5 chronic health condition (CHC) were estimated among 5-year AML survivors diagnosed between 1970 and 1999. Survivors were compared by treatment group (hematopoietic cell transplantation [HCT], chemotherapy with cranial radiation [chemo + CRT], chemotherapy only [chemo-only]), and diagnosis decade. Self-reported health status was compared across treatments, diagnosis decade, and with siblings. Among 856 survivors (median diagnosis age, 7.1 years; median age at last follow-up, 29.4 years), 20-year late mortality cumulative incidence was highest after HCT (13.9%; 95% confidence interval [CI], 10.0%-17.8%; chemo + CRT, 7.6%; 95% CI, 2.2%-13.1%; chemo-only, 5.1%; 95% CI, 2.8%-7.4%). Cumulative incidence of mortality for HCT survivors diagnosed in the 1990s (8.5%; 95% CI, 4.1%-12.8%) was lower vs those diagnosed in the 1970s (38.9%; 95% CI, 16.4%-61.4%). Most survivors did not experience any grade 3 to 5 CHC after 20 years (HCT, 45.8%; chemo + CRT, 23.7%; chemo-only, 27.0%). Furthermore, a temporal reduction in CHC cumulative incidence was seen after HCT (1970s, 76.1%; 1990s, 38.3%; P = .02), mirroring reduced use of total body irradiation. Self-reported health status was good to excellent for 88.2% of survivors; however, this was lower than that for siblings (94.8%; P < .0001). Although HCT is associated with greater long-term morbidity and mortality than chemotherapy-based treatment, gaps have narrowed, and all treatment groups report favorable health status.

Self-administered questionnaire assessing childhood cancer treatments and associated risks for adverse health outcomes - The KiKme study

Background

Childhood cancer survivors (CCS) are at particularly high risk for therapy-related late sequelae, with secondary primary neoplasms (SPN) being the most detrimental. Since there is no standardized questionnaire for retrospective assessment of associations between prior cancer treatments and late health effects, we developed a self-administered questionnaire and validated it in a cohort of CCS.

Methods

CCS of a first primary neoplasm (FPN, N=340) only or with a subsequent SPN (N=101) were asked whether they had received cancer therapies. Self-reports were compared to participants' medical records on cancer therapies from hospitals and clinical studies (N=242). Cohen's Kappa (κ) was used to measure their agreement and logistic regression was used to identify factors influencing the concordance. Associations between exposure to cancer therapies and late health effects (overweight/obesity, diseases of the lipid metabolism and the thyroid gland, cardiovascular diseases, occurrence of SPN) were analyzed in all participants by applying generalized linear mixed models to calculate odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (95%CI).

Results

For CCS of SPN, a perfect agreement was found between self-reports and medical records for chemotherapy (CT, κ=1.0) while the accordance for radiotherapy (RT) was lower but still substantial (κ=0.8). For the CCS of FPN the accordance was less precise (CT: κ=0.7, RT: κ=0.3). Cancer status, tumors of the central nervous system, sex, age at recruitment, vocational training, follow-up time, and comorbidities had no impact on agreement. CCS with exposure to CT were found to be less often overweight or obese compared to those without CT (OR=0.6 (95%CI 0.39; 0.91)). However, they were found to suffer more likely from thyroid diseases excluding thyroid cancers (OR=9.91 (95%CI 4.0; 24.57)) and hypercholesterolemia (OR=4.45 (95%CI 1.5; 13.23)). All other analyses did not show an association.

Conclusion

Our new questionnaire proved reliable for retrospective assessment of exposure to CT and RT in CCS of SPN. For the CCS of FPN, self-reported RT was very imprecise and should not be used for further analyses. We revealed an association between late health outcomes occurring as hypercholesterolemia and thyroid diseases, excluding thyroid cancer, and the use of CT for the treatment of childhood cancer.

Long-term health outcomes following curative therapies for sickle cell disease

Treatment options for patients with sickle cell disease (SCD) continue to rapidly expand and evolve. The goal of therapies such as an allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT), gene therapy, and gene editing is to cure rather than control SCD. The benefits of these therapies must be accompanied by minimizing long-term adverse health outcomes from SCD and its treatment. SCD can have adverse effects on a variety of organ systems, including the heart, lung, kidney, and reproductive system, leading to high disease burden, morbidity, and premature mortality in both pediatric and adult patients. While curative therapies are being increasingly used, there remains a paucity of data on the long-term health outcomes associated with these treatments in children and adults with SCD. There are data available regarding the effects of HSCT performed largely for malignant diseases, from which data on SCD outcomes may be extrapolated. However, given the significant differences between these 2 populations of patients who undergo HSCT, such extrapolation is imprecise at best. Furthermore, there are currently no published data on long-term health outcomes following gene therapy for SCD due to current short follow-up times. We summarize the limited data reported on health outcomes following HSCT for SCD and emphasize the need for more research within this area.

Outcomes of blood and marrow transplantation in children less than 2-years of age: 23 years of experience at a single center

Objectives

Allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (Allo-HCT) is a curative option for children with various malignant and non-malignant diseases. Most reports studied all age groups amongst children. Herein we analyzed our data in children transplanted at or less than 2-years of age.

Patients and methods

We reviewed medical charts of 618 patients who underwent 666 transplantation at our center between 1993 and 2015. There were 340 boys and 278 girls. Median age was 0.7 years (range 0.04-2). Stem cell source was bone marrow (BM) in 492 (73.9%), unrelated umbilical cord blood (UCB) in 161 (24.2%) followed by peripheral blood stem cell (PBSC) in 13 (2%) patients. Matched siblings were the most common donors (n = 356, 53.5%), followed by unrelated (n = 161, 24.2%) with haploidentical family member donors in 29 (4.4%) transplants. Disease groups were categorized as benign hematology (Thalassemia, Fanconi, Aplastic anemia etc.), benign neoplasm (Langerhans cell histiocytosis, Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis etc.), non-neoplasms (metabolic disorders, immunodeficiency disorders etc.) and Leukemia/lymphomas (myeloid and lymphoid malignancies etc.).

Results

Cumulative incidence of acute GvHD (I-IV) was 31.5% (n = 210) and grade III-IV GvHD was 8.7% (n = 58). At median follow-up of 115.1 months, the cumulative probability of overall survival (OS) at 5 years was 70.0% ± 1.9%. Our mortality rate was 31.2% (n = 193). The five-year OS was significantly better in patients transplanted for benign hematological disorders (P = .001). Patients transplanted using BM/PBSC as source of stem cells fared significantly better compared to those in which CB was used (P<.001). Post-transplant graft failure remains the leading cause requiring further transplants in this age group. In conclusion, the cumulative probability of OS at 5 years was about 70.0% for all with an OS of 61% in our haploidentical recipients.

Conclusion

Analyzing our institutional data over time has enabled us to develop tentative strategies to minimize transplant related toxicities in very young children who are candidates for allo-HCT.

Impact of Allogeneic Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation on Nutritional Status and Intake in Children

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to describe the impact of allogeneic/haploidentical hematopoietic stem cell transplantation on nutritional status and intake in a group of children aged 2 to 18 years.

METHODS

In an observational study, data were collected prospectively. Patients were prescribed individual nutritional support by hospital routines. Anthropometrics were measured pre-transplant at hospital admission and weekly from the day of transplant (day 0) until day +28. z scores for weight, height, and BMI were calculated using Norwegian growth references to assess nutritional status. Pre-transplant diet was assessed on the day of hospitalization. Nutrient provision from enteral nutrition (EN = oral and tube) and parenteral nutrition (PN) was assessed by daily records from day +1 until day +28, or previous discharge, and compared with recommendations (RI) from the Nordic Nutrition Recommendations and ESPGHAN guidelines. Total energy intake was presented as the percentage (%) of basal metabolic rate (BMR) calculated by the Schofield equation. Macro- and micronutrient provisions were presented as medians (interquartile range) and the % of RI.

RESULTS

Twenty-eight patients, mean age 10.3 years (range 3.5-16.6), were included. Two-thirds (n = 18) had malignant diseases. At admission, mean weight Z-score was -0.3, height z scores -0.7, and BMI Z-score 0.1. Eighteen percent (n = 5) were stunted and 25% (n = 7) had overweight. At admission, 25% (n = 7) had established tube feeding, and 7% (n = 2) also had PN. No significant changes in weight z scores were detected during the studied weeks ( P = 0.454). The median daily energy provision was 115% (110-123) of BMR and proteins 1.5 (1.3-1.8) g/kg. EN was provided during a median of 93% of the studied days and provided 21% of the energy. PN was given on a median of 96% of the studied days and provided 79% of energy. RI for vitamins, magnesium, and zinc was met. Provision of copper, iodine, selenium, calcium, and phosphate was below RI.

CONCLUSIONS

Combined EN and PN providing 115% of BMR and 1.5 g/kg protein ensured stable weight by day +28 and covered RI, except for trace elements and minerals.

Association of Chronic Graft-versus-Host Disease with Late Effects following Allogeneic Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation for Children with Hematologic Malignancy

Chronic graft-versus-host disease (cGVHD) occurs in up to 25% of children following allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) and continues to be a major cause of late morbidity and poor quality of life among long-term survivors of pediatric HCT. Late effects (LEs) of HCT are well documented in this population, and cGVHD has been identified as a risk factor for subsequent neoplasms (SNs) and several nonmalignant LEs (NM-LEs); however, the reported correlation between cGVHD and LEs varies among studies. We compared LEs occurring ≥2 years following childhood HCT for a hematologic malignancy in 2-year disease-free survivors with and without cGVHD and further evaluated the association of cGVHD features on the development of LEs. This systematic retrospective analysis used data from the Center of International Blood and Marrow Transplant Research (CIBMTR) on a large, representative cohort of 1260 survivors of pediatric HCT for hematologic malignancy to compare first malignant LEs and NM-LEs in those with a diagnosis of cGVHD and those who never developed cGVHD. The cumulative incidences of any first LE, SN, and NM-LE were estimated at 10 years after HCT, with death as a competing risk for patients with cGVHD versus no cGVHD. Cox proportional hazards models were used to evaluate the impact of cGVHD and its related characteristics on the development of first LEs. The estimated 10-year cumulative incidence of any LE in patients with and without cGVHD was 43% (95% CI, 38% to 48.2%) versus 32% (95% confidence interval [CI], 28.5% to 36.3%) (P < .001), respectively. The development of cGVHD by 2 years post-HCT was independently associated with any LE (hazard ratio [HR], 1.38; 95% CI, 1.13 to 1.68; P = .001) and NM-LE (HR, 1.37; 95% CI, 1.10 to 1.70; P = .006), but not SN (HR, 1.30; 95% CI, .73 to 2.31; P = .38). cGVHD-related factors linked with the development of an NM-LE included having extensive grade cGVHD (HR, 1.60; 95% CI, 1.23 to 2.08; P = .0005), severe cGVHD (HR, 2.25; 95% CI, 1.60 to 3.17; P < .0001), interrupted onset type (HR, 1.57; 95% CI, 1.21 to 2.05; P = .0008), and both mucocutaneous and visceral organ involvement (HR, 1.59; 95% CI, 1.24 to 2.03; P = .0002). No significant association between cGVHD-specific variables and SN was identified. Finally, the duration of cGVHD treatment of cGVHD with systemic immunosuppression was not significantly associated with SNs or NM-LEs. cGVHD was more closely associated with NM-LEs than with SNs among survivors of pediatric HCT for hematologic malignancy. In this analysis, the development of SNs was strongly associated with the use of myeloablative total body irradiation. cGVHD-related characteristics consistent with a state of greater immune dysregulation were more closely linked to NM-LEs.

Patient-reported long-term outcome following allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation in pediatric chronic myeloid leukemia

Background

Pediatric CML is very rare. Before the introduction of tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) from a donor -if available- was the standard cure attempt. Data on the long-term outcome and health-related quality of life (HRQOL) in former pediatric CML patients undergoing HSCT are lacking.

Study question

We investigated long-term survivors' self-reporting to a questionnaire sent out to patients formerly enrolled in pediatric CML-HSCT trials.

Methods

Individuals with CML transplanted at age <18 years were identified from the German Childhood Cancer Registry database. Long-term survivors received a questionnaire based on the SF-36 and FACT-BMT asking them to self-report HRQOL issues. (Ethical vote #541_20 B, Medical Faculty, University of Erlangen-Nürnberg).

Results

111/171 (64.9%) individuals survived HSCT long-term and 86/111 (77.5%) fulfilled all inclusion criteria and received the questionnaire. 37/86 (43%) participants (24 female, 13 male, median age at HSCT 12 years [range 2-18], median age at the time of the survey 29 years [range 18-43]) responded after a median follow-up period of 19 years (range 4-27) after HSCT. 10/37 (27%) participants underwent no regular medical follow-up examinations. Self-reported symptoms like chronic graft-versus-host disease (cGvHD)-associated organ impairments and conditioning regimen consequences could causatively not sharply be separated in each case. Complains comprised hypothyroidism (N=11, 30%), infertility (N=9, 24%), lung problems, dry eyes (each N=7, 19%), skin alterations (N=6, 17%), hair problems (N=4, 11%), and sexual dysfunction (N=3, 9%). 10 (27%) participants experienced 13 CML relapses after a median interval from HSCT of 31 months (range 2-93). Only one patient underwent 2nd SCT after failure of relapse treatment with TKIs. Six secondary malignancies (dysplastic melanocytic nevus and ALL, basal cell carcinoma (N=2), rhabdomyosarcoma, and thyroid carcinoma developed in 5 (13%) participants. As assessed by the SF-36 questionnaire, impaired physical health was mainly associated with cGvHD. The mental component summary score showed that also participants without cGvHD scored significantly lower than the general population. When assessed by the FACT-BMT, participants with cGvHD scored significantly lower while participants without cGvHD scored even 5 points higher than the data from controls. 18 (49%) participants considered the sequelae of HSCT an obstacle to education. Out of the total cohort, N=20 (54%), N=7 (19%), N=5 (14%), and N=4 (11%) participants worked full time, part-time, were unemployed, or had not yet finalized their education, respectively. 20 (54%) participants lived as singles, 8 (22%) lived in a partnership, 6 (16%) were married, and 3 (8%) had been divorced. Four (11%) participants reported a total number of 7 children.

Conclusion

This first assessment of HRQOL in former pediatric patients with CML surviving HSCT for more than two decades demonstrates self-reported satisfactory well-being only in the absence of cGvHD. Research-based on self-reported outcomes sheds light on former patients' perspectives and provides an additional layer of valuable knowledge for pediatric and adult hematologists. Regular follow-up examinations are mandatory helping to avoid that late secondary neoplasias, CML-relapse, and disorders forming the broad range of possible long-term consequences of HSCT are not detected too late.

Karnofsky performance status and visual analogue scale scores are simple indicators for quality of life in long-term AYA survivors who received allogeneic hematopoietic stem cells transplantation in childhood

The purpose of this study was to investigate Karnofsky performance status (KPS) scores and visual analogue scale (VAS) scores to explain which domains in the standardized self-reported quality of life (QOL) are instrumental for long-term hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) survivors. We conducted a nationwide cross-sectional questionnaire study on 221 survivors with allogeneic-HSCT in 28 pediatric centers. Patient-reported QOL was assessed at a single time point using the 36-item Short-Form Survey (SF-36), the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-Bone Marrow Transplant (FACT-BMT), and VAS scores. KPS scores were significantly correlated with both physical and role component summary scores of the SF-36, while the VAS provided by the patient (VASpt) was significantly correlated with the mental component summary score of the SF-36 and many subscales of the FACT-BMT. The VAS provided by the participants' attending physician (VASdoc) was correlated well with KPS scores. A VASpt score more than 40% lower than KPS scores suggested mental health problems. In conclusion, KPS scores might be considered as an indicator for physical and role/social components and VASpt score as an indicator for mental components and HSCT-specific QOL.

Liver-Intestinal Involvement in Graft Versus Host Disease in Pediatric Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation Patients: Ten Years of Experience in 2 Centers of Latin America

To describe the behavior and characteristics of children with diagnosis of graft versus host disease (GVHD) with liver-intestinal involvement.

Methods

Retrospective cohort study of pediatric patients with history of hematopoietic stem cell transplantation for diagnosis of GVHD with gastrointestinal (GI) or liver involvement, from 2 pediatric centers.

Results

Between 2007 and 2017, 57 pediatric patients presented with liver or intestinal GVHD; 74% with GI GVHD, 11% with liver GVHD, and 15% with liver-intestinal involvement. Diarrhea (96%) and abdominal pain (55%) were the most frequent symptoms. Endoscopies were performed in 88%, and 35% required a second procedure to confirm diagnosis. Normal-appearing mucosa was observed in 17% of upper GI endoscopies and in 29% of colonoscopies. Endoscopic pathological findings were observed mainly in colon (62%). There was greater severity on colonoscopic classification in those with liver-intestinal compromise than in those with GI compromise only. Overall mortality was 26%.

Conclusion

GI and liver GVHD diagnosis may present serious complications. GI involvement tends to manifest early, so it is appropriate to suspect it in the first days after transplantation, unlike liver involvement, which occurs late when other organs are involved. We did not observe a direct relationship between endoscopic and histological classification. Both GI and liver involvement in GVHD could predict greater target organ involvement.

Tumor predisposition: what's the skin got to do with it?

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Recognition of skin findings associated with tumor predisposition syndromes can prompt early evaluation and surveillance and improve management. Additionally, knowing when to test and when to defer performing genetic testing can streamline management. This article reviews tumor predisposition syndromes with recently characterized skin findings and disorders for which early recognition and counseling can impact the course of disease.

RECENT FINDINGS

Café au lait macules (CALMs) are important in many tumor predisposition syndromes, and 'atypical' CALMs are associated with constitutional mismatch repair deficiency and Fanconi anemia. Melanoma predisposition syndromes caused by pathogenic variants in POT1 and BAP1 are more recently described, and both are associated with Spitzoid tumors. Somatic pathogenic variants can cause segmental nevoid basal cell carcinoma syndrome and a mosaic form of Peutz-Jeghers syndrome. Patients with PTEN hamartoma syndrome have increased risk for melanoma but this might not occur until adulthood.

SUMMARY

The cutaneous manifestations of tumor predisposition syndromes can aid diagnosis. Early photoprotection is key to modifying a main risk factor for skin cancer in many of these syndromes. Implementing surveillance guidelines facilitates early detection of tumors.

Physical Fitness and Frailty in Males after Allogeneic Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation in Childhood: A Long-Term Follow-Up Study

Purpose and methods: To analyze physical fitness, physical activity and the prevalence of frailty in male long-term survivors of pediatric allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). We performed a Nordic two-center study of 98 male survivors (mean age 28.7 years, range 18.5–47.0) treated with pediatric allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) 1980–2010 in denmark or finland. physical fitness was evaluated by the dominant hand grip-strength, timed up-and-go, sit-to-stand, gait speed and two-minute walk tests. Results: Survivors presented significantly lower muscle strength and muscle endurance in the dominant hand-grip strength (median Z-score −0.7, range −4.3–3.9) and sit-to-stand tests (median Z-score −1.5, range −3.5–2.5) compared to age and sex matched normative values of the tests. However, mobility and gait speed were not affected on a group level. The prevalence of frailty (pre-frail 20% or frail 10%) was high among the survivors. In multiple regression analysis, chronic graft-versus-host disease, shorter stature, higher body fat mass and hazardous drinking predicted prefrail/frail status. Common cardiovascular risk factors, such as increased levels of serum triglycerides, higher resting heart rate and diastolic blood pressure, were associated with lower physical fitness. Conclusion: Low muscle strength and a high incidence of frailty were observed in survivors of pediatric HSCT. There is a predominant risk of cardiovascular and metabolic diseases in the long-term.

Long-Term Health Effects of Curative Therapies on Heart, Lungs, and Kidneys for Individuals with Sickle Cell Disease Compared to Those with Hematologic Malignancies

The goal of curing children and adults with sickle cell disease (SCD) is to maximize benefits and minimize intermediate and long-term adverse outcomes so that individuals can live an average life span with a high quality of life. While greater than 2000 individuals with SCD have been treated with curative therapy, systematic studies have not been performed to evaluate the long-term health effects of hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) in this population. Individuals with SCD suffer progressive heart, lung, and kidney disease prior to curative therapy. In adults, these sequalae are associated with earlier death. In comparison, individuals who undergo HSCT for cancer are heavily pretreated with chemotherapy, resulting in potential acute and chronic heart, lung, and kidney disease. The long-term health effects on the heart, lung, and kidney for children and adults undergoing HSCT for cancer have been extensively investigated. These studies provide the best available data to extrapolate the possible late health effects after curative therapy for SCD. Future research is needed to evaluate whether HSCT abates, stabilizes, or exacerbates heart, lung, kidney, and other diseases in children and adults with SCD receiving myeloablative and non-myeloablative conditioning regimens for curative therapy.

Male-specific late effects in adult hematopoietic cell transplantation recipients: a systematic review from the Late Effects and Quality of Life Working Committee of the Center for International Blood and Marrow Transplant Research and Transplant Complications Working Party of the European Society of Blood and Marrow Transplantation

Male-specific late effects after hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) include genital chronic graft-versus-host disease (GvHD), hypogonadism, sexual dysfunction, infertility, and subsequent malignancies. They may be closely intertwined and cause prolonged morbidity and decreased quality of life after HCT. We provide a systematic review of male-specific late effects in a collaboration between transplant physicians, endocrinologists, urologists, dermatologists, and sexual health professionals through the Late Effects and Quality of Life Working Committee of the Center for International Blood and Marrow Transplant Research, and the Transplant Complications Working Party of the European Society of Blood and Marrow Transplantation. The systematic review summarizes incidence, risk factors, screening, prevention and treatment of these complications and provides consensus evidence-based recommendations for clinical practice and future research.

Platelet Dysfunction Because of Amlodipine in Bone Marrow Transplant Recipient

BACKGROUND

Hypertension (HTN) is a complication of pediatric hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. We report a pediatric stem cell transplant patient who had HTN and adverse event because of amlodipine.

OBSERVATION

Seven-year-old boy had haploidentical stem cell transplantation with post-transplant cyclophosphamide. He had complete donor chimerism at the end of one month. Amlodipine was started on day +36 for HTN. On day +41, he had petechiae. Platelet function analyzer (PFA)-100 was abnormal. After amlodipine was stopped, petechiae disappeared and PFA-100 returned to normal.

CONCLUSIONS

Abnormal PFA-100 and the patient complaints indicated the possibility of amlodipine-induced platelet dysfunction through inhibition of calcium-mediated platelet reactions.

Sex-Specific Cardiovascular Risks of Cancer and Its Therapies

In both cardiovascular disease and cancer, there are established sex-based differences in prevalence and outcomes. Males and females may also differ in terms of risk of cardiotoxicity following cancer therapy, including heart failure, cardiomyopathy, atherosclerosis, thromboembolism, arrhythmias, and myocarditis. Here, we describe sex-based differences in the epidemiology and pathophysiology of cardiotoxicity associated with anthracyclines, hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HCT), hormone therapy and immune therapy. Relative to males, the risk of anthracycline-induced cardiotoxicity is higher in prepubertal females, lower in premenopausal females, and similar in postmenopausal females. For autologous hematopoietic cell transplant, several studies suggest an increased risk of late heart failure in female lymphoma patients, but sex-based differences have not been shown for allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplant. Hormone therapies including GnRH (gonadotropin-releasing hormone) modulators, androgen receptor antagonists, selective estrogen receptor modulators, and aromatase inhibitors are associated with cardiotoxicity, including arrhythmia and venous thromboembolism. However, sex-based differences have not yet been elucidated. Evaluation of sex differences in cardiotoxicity related to immune therapy is limited, in part, due to low participation of females in relevant clinical trials. However, some studies suggest that females are at increased risk of immune checkpoint inhibitor myocarditis, although this has not been consistently demonstrated. For each of the aforementioned cancer therapies, we consider sex-based differences according to cardiotoxicity management. We identify knowledge gaps to guide future mechanistic and prospective clinical studies. Furthering our understanding of sex-based differences in cancer therapy cardiotoxicity can advance the development of targeted preventive and therapeutic cardioprotective strategies.

Thyroid function disorders and secondary cancer following haematopoietic stem cell transplantation in pediatrics: State of the art and practical recommendations for a risk-based follow-up

Thyroid disorders (TD) represent a remarkable share of all the late morbidities experienced following pediatric haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT), with long-term reported occurrence often exceeding 70%. In addition, the data collected on wide cohorts of survivors assessed longitudinally outlined a progressive increase in the cumulative incidence of TD as far as 30 years following transplantation. Accordingly, a life-long monitoring of thyroid health is warranted among patients exposed to HSCT in childhood, in order to early detect TD and undertake a prompt dedicated treatment. Although several national and international consortia have provided recommendations for the early detection of thyroid disorders among childhood cancer survivors exposed to radiotherapy and alkylating agents, no guidelines specifically and thoroughly focused on HSCT-related TD have been published to date. As stem cell transplantation has become the standard-of-care in a growing body of non-oncological conditions, this urge has become pivotal. To highlight the challenging issues specifically involving this cohort of patients and to provide clinicians with the proposal of a practical follow-up protocol, we reviewed published literature in the light of the shared experience of a multidisciplinary team of pediatric oncologists, transplantologists, pathologists and endocrinologists involved in the long-term care of HSCT survivors. As a final result, we hereby present the proposals of a practical and customized risk-based approach to tailor thyroid health follow-up based on HSCT-related detrimental factors.

Health care utilisation following childhood acute lymphoblastic leukaemia: a population-based matched cohort study

OBJECTIVES

Survival among children diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) has increased considerably. However, morbidity in survivors constitutes a potential increasing burden not limited to secondary health care. Our objectives were to compare health care utilisation, including both primary and secondary health care, between childhood ALL survivors and matched references up to 15 years after curative treatment. Moreover, to increase knowledge on survivors' health service seeking behaviour as time from treatment elapsed.

DESIGN AND SETTING

A Danish population-based matched cohort study linking multiple nationwide registries.

PARTICIPANTS

675 cases, diagnosed with childhood (1.0-17.9 years) ALL between 1994 and 2015, and 6750 matched references sampled randomly from the source population (matched on age, gender and geographical region).

PRIMARY OUTCOME MEASURES

Repeated consultations in general practice and hospital (outpatient and inpatient) estimated as yearly rates from 2.5 years after diagnosis and onwards. We compared cases and references with yearly incidence rate ratios (IRRs) from negative binomial regression models.

RESULTS

Survivors of childhood ALL had a mean number of yearly daytime contacts in general practice of 4.75 (95% CI 4.41 to 5.11) the first year, corresponding to an IRR of 1.85 (95% CI 1.71 to 2.00); decreasing to 1.16 (1.01 to 1.34) after 15 years, and without significant impact of gender (p=0.894) or age (p=0.399). For hospital contacts, ALL survivors had a mean number of yearly contacts of 14.21 (13.38-15.08) the first year, corresponding to an IRR of 31.50 (28.29-35.07); decreasing to 2.42 (1.59-3.68) after 15 years. No differences were found across calendar time.

CONCLUSIONS

ALL survivors used significantly more health care services across sectors than the reference population. Decreasing use over 15 years illustrated the dynamics of health care needs; this knowledge may inform the future organisation of integrated follow-up programmes.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

NCT03985826.

Male-specific late effects in adult hematopoietic cell transplantation recipients: a systematic review from the Late Effects and Quality of Life Working Committee of the Center for International Blood and Marrow Transplant Research and Transplant Complications Working Party of the European Society of Blood and Marrow Transplantation

BACKGROUND

Male-specific late effects after hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) include genital chronic graft-versus-host disease (GvHD), hypogonadism, sexual dysfunction, infertility, and subsequent malignancies, such as prostate, penile, and testicular cancer. They may be closely intertwined and cause prolonged morbidity and decreased quality of life after HCT.

OBJECTIVE

Here, we provide a systematic review of male-specific late effects in a collaboration between transplant physicians, endocrinologists, urologists, dermatologists, and sexual health professionals through the Late Effects and Quality of Life Working Committee of the Center for International Blood and Marrow Transplant Research, and the Transplant Complications Working Party of the European Society of Blood and Marrow Transplantation.

STUDY DESIGN

We utilized systematic review methodology to summarize incidence, risk factors, screening, prevention and treatment of these complications and provide consensus evidence-based recommendations for clinical practice and future research.

RESULTS

Most of the evidence regarding male GvHD is still based on limited data, precluding strong therapeutic recommendations. We therefore recommend to systematically screen for male genital GvHD regularly and report it to large registries to allow for a better understanding. Future research should also address treatment since little published evidence is available to date. Male-specific endocrine consequences of HCT include hypogonadism which may also affect bone health. Since the evidence is scarce, current recommendations for hormone substitution and/or bone health treatment are based on similar principles as for the general population. Following HCT, sexual health decreases and this topic should be addressed at regular intervals. Future studies should focus on interventional strategies to address sexual dysfunction. Infertility remains prevalent in patients having undergone myeloablative conditioning, which warrants offering sperm preservation in all HCT candidates. Most studies on fertility rely on descriptive registry analysis and surveys, hence the importance of reporting post-HCT conception data to large registries. Although the quality of evidence is low, the development of cancer in male genital organs does not seem more prevalent than in the general population; however, subsequent malignancies in general seem to be more prevalent in males than females, and special attention should be given to skin and oral mucosa.

CONCLUSION

Male-specific late effects, probably more under-reported than female-specific complications, should be systematically considered during the regular follow-up visits of male survivors who have undergone HCT. Care of patients with male-specific late effects warrants close collaboration between transplant physicians and specialists from other involved disciplines. Future research should be directed towards better data collection on male-specific late effects and on studies about the interrelationship between these late effects, to allow the development of evidence based effective management practices.

Impact of chronic GVHD on QOL assessed by visual analogue scale in pediatric HSCT survivors and differences between raters: a cross-sectional observational study in Japan

A nationwide cross-sectional survey was conducted in long-term survivors of allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) in childhood to investigate the effect of chronic graft-versus-host disease (cGVHD) on quality of life (QOL) and differences in QOL assessments between raters. QOL was evaluated by a visual analogue scale (VAS). Assessments were compared between the survivor, guardian, and attending pediatrician for those aged 15 years or younger, and between the survivor and attending pediatrician for those aged 16 years or older. For cGVHD, severity scores were obtained by organ and their association with the VAS score was analyzed. The average pediatrician-rated VAS score was higher than that of other raters for both patient age groups (< 15 years and > 16 years). By organ, involvement of the skin, digestive organs, and joints in GVHD affected the VAS scores. A high joint score was associated with a low VAS score, and conversely, a high lung score was associated with a low pediatrician-rated VAS score. Our results indicate that differences between raters must be considered when evaluating QOL of HSCT survivors, because patients appeared to experience grater inconvenience and difficulties due to joint GVHD than their pediatricians perceived.

Cardiorespiratory fitness and physical performance after childhood hematopoietic stem cell transplantation: a systematic review and meta-analysis

The effects of childhood hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) on key organs can impair cardiorespiratory fitness, muscle strength, and physical performance. We aimed to provide an overview of childhood HSCT survivors' status on these parameters compared with healthy controls and discuss current insights into clinical risk factors. We performed a systematic search in six scientific databases, including studies published before April 2019 and performed a meta-analysis on cardiorespiratory fitness. Muscle strength and physical performance status were presented narratively. We included ten studies embodying 517 childhood HSCT survivors (mean 17.8 years at follow-up). The meta-analysis (n = 4 studies) showed that childhood HSCT survivors have lower cardiorespiratory fitness compared with healthy controls (Standard mean difference (SMD) -1.32 [95% CI -1-58 to -1.07]; I² 2%, p < 0.00001). Collectively, the studies indicated that childhood HSCT survivors have lower muscle strength (n = 4 studies) and physical performance (n = 3 studies) compared with healthy controls. Childhood HSCT survivors have impaired cardiorespiratory fitness years after ended treatment. Muscle strength and physical performance seem to be impaired, although these measures are insufficiently investigated. Associations between HSCT-specific clinical risk factors and cardiorespiratory fitness, muscle strength, and physical performance are required.

Recommendations on hematopoietic stem cell transplantation for patients with Diamond-Blackfan anemia. On behalf of the Pediatric Diseases and Severe Aplastic Anemia Working Parties of the EBMT

Diamond Blackfan anemia (DBA) is a rare congenital syndrome presenting primarily as pure red cell aplasia with constitutional abnormalities and cancer predisposition. Established treatment options are corticosteroids, regular erythrocyte transfusions with iron chelation therapy, and hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). To date, HSCT is the only definitive curative treatment for the hematological phenotype of DBA, but there is little experience with its use. Given the rarity of the disease and its unique features, an expert panel agreed to draw up a set of recommendations on the use of HSCT in DBA to guide clinical decision-making and practice. The recommendations address indications, pretransplant patient evaluation, donor selection, stem cell sources, conditioning regimens, prophylaxis of rejection and graft versus host disease, and post-transplant follow-up.

Pulmonary surveillance in pediatric hematopoietic stem cell transplant: A multinational multidisciplinary survey

Background

Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplant (HSCT) is an established treatment for malignant and non‐malignant conditions and pulmonary disease is a leading cause of late term morbidity and mortality. Accurate and early detection of pulmonary complications is a critical step in improving long term outcomes. Existing guidelines for surveillance of pulmonary complications post‐HSCT contain conflicting recommendations.

Aim

To determine the breadth of current practice in monitoring for pulmonary complications of pediatric HSCT.

Methods

An institutional review board approved, online, anonymous multiple‐choice survey was distributed to HSCT and pulmonary physicians from the United States of America and Australasia using the REDcap platform. The survey was developed by members of the American Thoracic Society Working Group on Complications of Childhood Cancer, and was designed to assess patient management and service design.

Results

A total of 40 (34.8%) responses were received. The majority (62.5%) were pulmonologists, and 82.5% were from the United States of America. In all, 67.5% reported having a protocol for monitoring pulmonary complications and 50.0% reported adhering “well” or “very well” to protocols. Pulmonary function tests (PFTs) most commonly involved spirometry and diffusion capacity for carbon monoxide. The frequency of PFTs varied depending on time post‐HSCT and presence of complications. In all, 55.0% reported a set threshold for a clinically significant change in PFT.

Conclusions

These results illustrate current variation in surveillance for pulmonary complications of pediatric HSCT. The results of this survey will inform development of future guidelines for monitoring of pulmonary complications after pediatric HSCT.

Long-term Outcomes of Sequential Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation and Kidney Transplantation: Single-center Experience

BACKGROUND

Experience with sequential hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) and kidney transplant (KT) is limited.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective observational study of adult patients who underwent both HSCT and KT at our center, with a median follow-up of 11 y.

RESULTS

In our 54 patients cohort (94% autologous HSCT), 36 (67%) patients received HSCT first followed by KT, while 18 (33%) received KT before HSCT. In both groups, AL amyloidosis represented 50% of hematologic diagnosis. Only 4 patients expired due to hematologic disease relapse (2 patients in each group) and only 3 allografts were lost due to hematologic disease recurrence (HSCT first n = 1 and KT first n = 2). Overall 1, 5, and 10 y death-censored graft survival rates were 94%, 94%, and 94%, respectively, for the HSCT first group and 89%, 89%, and 75%, respectively, for the KT first group. Overall 1, 5, and 10 y patients survival rates were 100%, 97% and 90%, respectively, for the HSCT first group and 100%, 76%, and 63%, respectively, for the KT first group.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study supports safety of sequential KT and HSCT, with improved overall patient survival compared to recipients of HSCT remaining on dialysis and good long-term kidney allograft outcome.

Chronic kidney disease ten years after pediatric allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is an important sequela of hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT), but data regarding CKD after pediatric HSCT are limited. In this single center cohort study, we evaluated the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) dynamics, proteinuria and hypertension in the first decade after HSCT and assessed risk factors for CKD in 216 pediatric HSCT survivors, transplanted 2002-2012. The eGFR decreased from a median of 148 to 116 ml/min/1.73 m² between pre-HSCT to ten years post-HSCT. CKD (KDIGO stages G2 or A2 or more; eGFR under 90 ml/min/1.73m² and/or albuminuria) occurred in 17% of patients. In multivariate analysis, severe prolonged stage 2 or more acute kidney injury (AKI), with an eGFR under 60ml/min/1.73m² and duration of 28 days or more, was the main risk factor for CKD (hazard ratio 9.5, 95% confidence interval 3.4-27). Stage 2 or more AKI with an eGFR of 60ml/min/1.73m² or more and KDIGO stage 2 or more AKI with eGFR under 60ml/min/1.73m² but recovery within 28 days were not associated with CKD. Furthermore, hematological malignancy as HSCT indication was an independent risk factor for CKD. One third of patients had both CKD criteria, one third had isolated eGFR reduction and one third only had albuminuria. Hypertension occurred in 27% of patients with CKD compared to 4.4% of patients without. Tubular proteinuria was present in 7% of a subgroup of 71 patients with available β2-microglobulinuria. Thus, a significant proportion of pediatric HSCT recipients developed CKD within ten years. Our data stress the importance of structural long-term monitoring of eGFR, urine and blood pressure after HSCT to identify patients with incipient CKD who can benefit from nephroprotective interventions.

Long-term neurocognitive and quality of life outcomes in survivors of pediatric hematopoietic cell transplant

PURPOSE

Pediatric patients who undergo hematopoietic cell transplant (HCT) are at risk for neurocognitive impairments, which can impact quality of life. Given limited long-term studies, we aimed to characterize the late neurocognitive outcomes in a cohort of pediatric HCT survivors.

METHODS

Eligible survivors (HCT at age < 21 year and ≥ 1 year post-HCT) completed a 60-question survey of neurocognitive function and quality of life, which included the Childhood Cancer Survivor Study Neurocognitive Questionnaire (CCSS-NCQ) and the Neuro-Quality of Life Cognitive Function Short Form (Neuro-QoL). Analyses of risk factors included univariate comparisons and multivariable logistic regression.

RESULTS

Participants (n = 199, 50.3% female, 53.3% acute leukemia, 87.9% allogeneic transplants) were surveyed at median age of 37.8 years (interquartile range [IQR] 28.5-48.8) at survey and median 27.6 years (IQR 17.0-34.0) from transplant. On the CCSS-NCQ, 18.9-32.5% of survivors reported impairments (Z score > 1.28) in task efficiency, memory, emotional regulation, or organization, compared with expected 10% in the general population (all p < 0.01). In contrast, survivors reported average Neuro-QoL (T score 49.6±0.7) compared with population normative value of 50 (p = 0.52). In multivariable regression, impaired Neuro-QoL (T score < 40) was independently associated with hearing issues (OR 4.97, 95% CI 1.96-12.6), history of stroke or seizure (OR 4.46, 95% CI 1.44-13.8), and sleep disturbances (OR 6.95, 95% CI 2.53-19.1).

CONCLUSIONS

Although long-term survivors of pediatric HCT reported higher rates of impairment in specific neurocognitive domains, cognitive quality of life was perceived as similar to the general population. Subsets of survivors with certain co-morbidities had substantially worse neurocognitive outcomes.

IMPLICATIONS FOR CANCER SURVIVORS

While the long-term impact of pediatric HCT can include neurocognitive deficits, survivors report average cognitive quality of life.

Late infectious complications in hematopoietic cell transplantation survivors: a population-based study

Few studies have compared the incidence of infections occurring ≥2 years after hematopoietic cell transplant (HCT) with other cancer patients and the general population. In this study, ≥2-year HCT survivors who were Washington residents treated from 1992 through 2009 (n = 1792; median age, 46 years; 52% allogeneic; 90% hematologic malignancies) were matched to individuals from the state cancer registry (n = 5455, non-HCT) and driver's license files (n = 16 340; Department of Licensing [DOL]). Based on hospital and death registry codes, incidence rate ratios (IRRs; 95% confidence interval [CI]) of infections by organism type and organ system were estimated using Poisson regression. With 7-year median follow-up, the incidence rate (per 1000 person-years) of all infections was 65.4 for HCT survivors vs 39.6 for the non-HCT group (IRR, 1.6; 95% CI, 1.3-1.9) and 7.2 for DOL (IRR, 10.0; 95% CI, 8.3-12.1). Bacterial and fungal infections were each 70% more common in HCT vs non-HCT cancer survivors (IRR, 1.7; P < .01), whereas the risk for viral infection was lower (IRR, 1.4; P = .07). Among potentially vaccine-preventable organisms, the IRR was 3.0 (95% CI, 2.1-4.3) vs the non-HCT group. Although the incidences of all infections decreased with time, the relative risk in almost all categories remained significantly increased in ≥5-year HCT survivors vs other groups. Risk factors for late infection included history of relapse and for some infections, history of chronic graft-versus-host disease. Providers caring for HCT survivors should maintain vigilance for infections and ensure adherence to antimicrobial prophylaxis and vaccination guidelines.

Cardiovascular disease and its management in children and adults undergoing hematopoietic stem cell transplantation

Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) is a potentially curative treatment for many malignancies, hemoglobinopathies, metabolic diseases, bone marrow failure syndromes, and primary immune deficiencies. Despite the significant improvement in survival afforded by HSCT, the therapy is associated with major short and long-term morbidity and mortality. Cardiovascular complications such as cardiomyopathy, arrhythmias, pulmonary hypertension, and pericardial effusions are increasingly recognized as potential outcomes following HSCT. The incidence of cardiac complications is related to various factors such as age, co-morbid medical conditions, whether patients received cardiotoxic chemotherapy prior to HSCT, the type of HSCT (autologous versus allogeneic), and the specific conditioning regimen. Thus, the cardiovascular evaluation has become a core component of the pre-transplant assessment, however, the practice differs from center to center as national guidelines and contemporary high-quality studies are lacking. We review the incidence of cardiotoxicity in pediatric and adult HSCT, potential mechanisms of injury, and effects on long-term outcomes. We also discuss the possible therapeutic approaches when disease arises, as well as the indications and need for surveillance before, during, and after transplantation.

Comparison of blood pressure values and expression of genes associated with hypertension in children before and after hematopoietic cell transplantation

Hypertension is a well-known late effect of hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT), but no markers predicting its development are known. Our aim was to assess short-term blood pressure (BP) values and expressions of hypertension-associated genes as possible markers of hypertension in children treated with HCT. We measured systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP), using both office procedure and ambulatory BP monitoring (ABPM) in children before HCT and after a median of 6 months after HCT. We compared the results with two control groups, one of healthy children and another of children with simple obesity. We also performed microarray analysis of hypertension-associated genes in patients treated with HCT and children with obesity. We found no significant differences in SBP and DBP in patients before and after HCT. We found significant differences in expressions of certain genes in patients treated with HCT compared with children with obesity. We concluded that BP values in short-term follow-up after HCT do not seem to be useful predictors of hypertension as a late effect of HCT. However, over expressions of certain hypertension-associated genes might be used as markers of hypertension as a late effect of HCT if this is confirmed in larger long-term studies.

Lipodystrophy as a Late Effect after Stem Cell Transplantation

Survivors of childhood cancer are at high risk of developing metabolic diseases in adulthood. Recently, several patients developing partial lipodystrophy following hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) have been described. In this review, we summarize the cases described so far and discuss potential underlying mechanisms of the disease. The findings suggest that HSCT-associated lipodystrophies may be seen as a novel form of acquired lipodystrophy.

A systematic review of rehabilitation and exercise recommendations in oncology guidelines

Guidelines promote high quality cancer care. Rehabilitation recommendations in oncology guidelines have not been characterized and may provide insight to improve integration of rehabilitation into oncology care. This report was developed as a part of the World Health Organization (WHO) Rehabilitation 2030 initiative to identify rehabilitation-specific recommendations in guidelines for oncology care. A systematic review of guidelines was conducted. Only guidelines published in English, for adults with cancer, providing recommendations for rehabilitation referral and assessment or interventions between 2009 and 2019 were included. 13840 articles were identified. After duplicates and applied filters, 4897 articles were screened. 69 guidelines were identified with rehabilitation-specific recommendations. Thirty-seven of the 69 guidelines endorsed referral to rehabilitation services but provided no specific recommendations regarding assessment or interventions. Thirty-two of the 69 guidelines met the full inclusion criteria and were assessed using the AGREE II tool. Twenty-one of these guidelines achieved an AGREE II quality score of ≥ 45 and were fully extracted. Guidelines exclusive to pharmacologic interventions and complementary and alternative interventions were excluded. Findings identify guidelines that recommend rehabilitation services across many cancer types and for various consequences of cancer treatment signifying that rehabilitation is a recognized component of oncology care. However, these findings are at odds with clinical reports of low rehabilitation utilization rates suggesting that guideline recommendations may be overlooked. Considering that functional morbidity negatively affects a majority of cancer survivors, improving guideline concordant rehabilitative care could have substantial impact on function and quality of life among cancer survivors.

Exploring the Potential Role of the Gut Microbiome in Chemotherapy-Induced Neurocognitive Disorders and Cardiovascular Toxicity

Simple Summary

While lifesaving achievements have allowed cancer to be cured in many patients, survivors cured of cancer may suffer from long-term adverse treatment sequelae, substantially altering their quality of life and reintegration into normal life. Increasing evidence suggests the emerging role of the microbiome in chemotherapy-induced late effects affecting cognitive functions and the cardiovascular system. Moreover, existing data from animal models and patients with neurocognitive disorders and cardiovascular diseases outline the possibility that microbiota modulation might potentially prevent or mitigate the psycho-physiological deficits following chemotherapy and help to improve the behavioral comorbidities, cognitive functions, and quality of life in cancer survivors.

Abstract

Chemotherapy, targeting not only malignant but also healthy cells, causes many undesirable side effects in cancer patients. Due to this fact, long-term cancer survivors often suffer from late effects, including cognitive impairment and cardiovascular toxicity. Chemotherapy damages the intestinal mucosa and heavily disrupts the gut ecosystem, leading to gastrointestinal toxicity. Animal models and clinical studies have revealed the associations between intestinal dysbiosis and depression, anxiety, pain, impaired cognitive functions, and cardiovascular diseases. Recently, a possible link between chemotherapy-induced gut microbiota disruption and late effects in cancer survivors has been proposed. In this review, we summarize the current understanding of preclinical and clinical findings regarding the emerging role of the microbiome and the microbiota–gut–brain axis in chemotherapy-related late effects affecting the central nervous system (CNS) and heart functions. Importantly, we provide an overview of clinical trials evaluating the relationship between the gut microbiome and cancer survivorship. Moreover, the beneficial effects of probiotics in experimental models and non-cancer patients with neurocognitive disorders and cardiovascular diseases as well as several studies on microbiota modulations via probiotics or fecal microbiota transplantation in cancer patients are discussed.

Impact of cGVHD on socioeconomic outcomes in survivors with pediatric hematopoietic stem cell transplant in Japan: a cross-sectional observational study

We conducted a cross-sectional observational study investigating socioeconomic status among Japanese survivors of pediatric hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HCT) and the impact of chronic graft-versus-host disease (cGVHD) on socioeconomic outcomes, which are topics not well explored in the previous research. We collected data on socioeconomic outcomes from 442 HCT survivors through a questionnaire and obtained demographic and clinical information from their attending physicians and a national database between February 2013 and November 2014. We used logistic regression analysis to examine the relationship between cGVHD and socioeconomic outcomes in allogeneic HCT (allo-HCT) survivors. Most survivors did not experience socioeconomic problems. Nevertheless, allo-HCT survivors with cGVHD aged 8-15 years had poorer economic status (p = 0.013), and allo-HCT survivors with cGVHD aged ≥ 16 years were more likely to have never married (p = 0.034) and less likely to have more than a high school education (p = 0.023), compared with allo-HCT survivors without cGVHD. Thus, cGVHD in Japanese allo-HCT survivors was a risk factor for economic difficulties for those aged 8-15 years, and for never marrying and low educational achievement in those aged ≥ 16 years.