Hydroxychloroquine for the treatment of chronic graft-versus-host disease

Chronic graft-versus-host disease. Part II: Disease activity grading and therapeutic management

Chronic graft-versus-host disease (cGVHD) is a major complication of allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation and a leading cause of long-term morbidity, nonrelapse mortality, and impaired health-related quality of life. The skin is commonly affected and presents heterogeneously, making the role of dermatologists critical in both diagnosis and treatment. In addition, new clinical classification and grading schemes inform treatment algorithms, which now include 3 Federal Drug Administration-approved therapies, and evolving transplant techniques are changing disease epidemiology. Part I reviews the epidemiology, pathogenesis, clinical manifestations, and diagnosis of cGVHD. Part II discusses disease grading and therapeutic management.

Hepatic graft-versus-host disease: what we know, when to biopsy, and how to diagnose

Graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) is one of the serious complications that may develop after hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT), for hematologic malignancies, solid organ transplantation, and other hematologic disorders. GVHD develops due to T lymphocytes present in the graft attacking the host antigens, which results in tissue damage. A significant number of HCT patients develop acute or chronic GVHD, which may affect multiple organs including the liver. The diagnosis of hepatic GVHD (hGVHD) is challenging as many other conditions in HCT patients may lead to liver dysfunction. Particularly challenging among the various conditions that give rise to liver dysfunction is differentiating sinusoidal obstruction syndrome and drug-induced liver injury (DILI) from hGVHD on clinical grounds and laboratory tests. Despite the minimal risks involved in performing a liver biopsy, the information gleaned from the histopathologic changes may help in the management of these very complex patients. There is a spectrum of histologic features found in hGVHD, and most involve histopathologic changes affecting the interlobular bile ducts. These include nuclear and cytoplasmic abnormalities including dysmorphic bile ducts, apoptosis, and cholangiocyte necrosis, among others. The hepatitic form of hGVHD typically shows severe acute hepatitis. With chronic hGVHD, there is progressive bile duct loss and eventually fibrosis. Accurate diagnosis of hGVHD is paramount so that timely treatment and management can be initiated. Techniques to prevent and lower the risk of GVHD from developing have recently evolved. If a diagnosis of acute GVHD is made, the first-line of treatment is steroids. Recurrence is common and steroid resistance or dependency is not unusual in this setting. Second-line therapies differ among institutions and have not been uniformly established. The development of GVHD, particularly hGVHD, is associated with increased morbidity and mortality.

How toxic is an old friend? A review of the safety of hydroxychloroquine in clinical practice

Hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) and its close relative chloroquine (CQ) were initially used as antimalarial agents but are now widely prescribed in rheumatology, dermatology and immunology for the management of autoimmune diseases. HCQ is considered to have a better long-term safety profile than CQ and is therefore more commonly used. HCQ has a key role in the treatment of connective tissue diseases including systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), where it provides beneficial immunomodulation without clinically significant immunosuppression. HCQ can also assist in managing inflammatory arthritis, including rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Debate around toxicity of HCQ in COVID-19 has challenged those who regularly prescribe HCQ to discuss its potential toxicities. Accordingly, we have reviewed the adverse effect profile of HCQ to provide guidance about this therapeutic agent in clinical practice.

Extracorporeal photopheresis versus alternative treatment for chronic graft-versus-host disease after haematopoietic stem cell transplantation in children and adolescents

BACKGROUND

Chronic graft-versus-host disease (cGvHD) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality after haematopoietic stem cell transplantation, occurring in 6% to 65% of the paediatric recipients. Currently, the therapeutic mainstay for cGvHD is treatment with corticosteroids, frequently combined with other immunosuppressive agents in people with steroid-refractory manifestations. There is no established standard treatment for steroid-refractory cGvHD. The therapeutic options for these patients include extracorporeal photopheresis (ECP), an immunomodulatory treatment that involves ex vivo collection of mononuclear cells from peripheral blood, exposure to the photoactive agent 8-methoxypsoralen, ultraviolet radiation and re-infusion of the processed cell product. The mechanisms of action of ECP are not completely understood. This is the second update of a Cochrane Review first published in 2014 and first updated in 2015.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the effectiveness and safety of ECP for the management of cGvHD in children and adolescents after haematopoietic stem cell transplantation.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched the Cochrane Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) (2021), MEDLINE (PubMed) and Embase databases from their inception to 25 January 2021. We searched the reference lists of potentially relevant studies without any language restrictions. We searched five conference proceedings and nine clinical trial registries on 9 November 2020 and 12 November 2020, respectively.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We aimed to include randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing ECP with or without alternative treatment versus alternative treatment alone in children and adolescents with cGvHD after haematopoietic stem cell transplantation.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two review authors independently performed the study selection. We resolved disagreements in the selection of trials by consultation with a third review author.

MAIN RESULTS

We found no studies meeting the criteria for inclusion in this 2021 review update.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

We could not evaluate the efficacy of ECP in the treatment of cGvHD in children and adolescents after haematopoietic stem cell transplantation since the second review update again found no RCTs. Current recommendations are based on retrospective or observational studies only. Thus, ideally, ECP should be applied in the context of controlled trials only. However, performing RCTs in this population will be challenging due to the limited number of eligible participants, variable disease presentation and the lack of well-defined response criteria. International collaboration, multicentre trials and appropriate funding for such trials will be needed. If treatment decisions based on clinical data are made in favour of ECP, recipients should be carefully monitored for beneficial and harmful effects. In addition, efforts should be made to share this information with other clinicians, for example by setting up registries for children and adolescents treated with ECP.

Fused deposition modeling three-dimensional printing of flexible polyurethane intravaginal rings with controlled tunable release profiles for multiple active drugs

We designed and engineered novel intravaginal ring (IVR) medical devices via fused deposition modeling (FDM) three-dimensional (3D) printing for controlled delivery of hydroxychloroquine, IgG, gp120 fragment (encompassing the CD4 binding site), and coumarin 6 PLGA-PEG nanoparticles (C6NP). The hydrophilic polyurethanes were utilized to 3D-print reservoir-type IVRs containing a tunable release controlling membrane (RCM) with varying thickness and adaptable micro porous structures (by altering the printing patterns and interior fill densities) for controlled sustained drug delivery over 14 days. FDM 3D printing of IVRs were optimized and implemented using a lab-developed Cartesian 3D printer. The structures were investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) imaging and in vitro release was performed using 5 mL of daily-replenished vaginal fluid simulant (pH 4.2). The release kinetics of the IVR segments were tunable with various RCM (outer diameter to inner diameter ratio ranging from 1.12 to 2.61) produced from FDM 3D printing by controlling the printing perimeter to provide daily zero-order release of HCQ ranging from 23.54 ± 3.54 to 261.09 ± 32.49 µg/mL/day. IgG, gp120 fragment, and C6NP release rates demonstrated pattern and in-fill density-dependent characteristics. The current study demonstrated the utility of FDM 3D printing to rapidly fabricate complex micro-structures for tunable and sustained delivery of a variety of compounds including HCQ, IgG, gp120 fragment, and C6NP from IVRs in a controlled manner.

The clinical landscape of chronic graft-versus-host disease management in 2021

Chronic graft-versus-host disease (cGVHD) is an important systemic complication of allogeneic haematopoietic stem cell transplantation with heterogeneous, multi-organ involvement that can lead to increased morbidity and mortality. Despite significant advances in understanding the complex pathophysiology driving the disease, curative treatment options remain suboptimal. The past decade, however, has seen much growth in collaborative research efforts and standardization of criteria for clinical trials that have led to discovery of several new second-line therapies in cGVHD. The key to successful cGVHD control and management includes a comprehensive and sustained multidisciplinary effort with emphasis on ancillary and supportive care for these patients. The focus of this review is to summarize the new developments in systemic, organ-specific, and topical treatments in the management of cGVHD that emerged since the 2014 NIH consensus conference.

Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation, Version 2.2020, NCCN Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology

Hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) involves the infusion of hematopoietic progenitor cells into patients with hematologic disorders with the goal of re-establishing normal hematopoietic and immune function. HCT is classified as autologous or allogeneic based on the origin of hematopoietic cells. Autologous HCT uses the patient's own cells while allogeneic HCT uses hematopoietic cells from a human leukocyte antigen-compatible donor. Allogeneic HCT is a potentially curative treatment option for patients with certain types of hematologic malignancies, and autologous HCT is primarily used to support patients undergoing high-dose chemotherapy. Advances in HCT methods and supportive care in recent decades have led to improved survival after HCT; however, disease relapse and posttransplant complications still commonly occur in both autologous and allogeneic HCT recipients. Allogeneic HCT recipients may also develop acute and/or chronic graft-versus-host disease (GVHD), which results in immune-mediated cellular injury of several organs. The NCCN Guidelines for Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation focus on recommendations for pretransplant recipient evaluation and the management of GVHD in adult patients with malignant disease.

Monogenic Immune Diseases Provide Insights Into the Mechanisms and Treatment of Chronic Graft-Versus-Host Disease

Chronic graft-versus-host disease (GvHD) has become a leading cause of morbidity and mortality following allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) and can burden patients with devastating and lifelong health effects. Our understanding of the pathogenic mechanisms underlying chronic GvHD remains incomplete and this lack of understanding is reflected by lack of clear therapeutic approaches to steroid refractory disease. Observations predominantly from mouse models and human correlative studies currently support a three phase model for the initiation and development of chronic GvHD: 1) early inflammation and tissue damage triggers the innate immune system. This leads to inflammatory cytokine/chemokine patterns that recruit effector immune cell populations; 2) chronic inflammation causes the loss of central and peripheral tolerance mechanisms leading to emergence of pathogenic B and T cell populations that promote autoimmune and alloimmune reactions; 3) the dysregulated immunity causes altered macrophage polarization, aberrant tissue repair leading to scarring and end organ fibrosis. This model has led to the evaluation of many new therapies aimed at limiting inflammation, targeting dysregulated signaling pathways and restoring tolerance mechanisms. However, chronic GvHD is a multisystem disease with complex clinical phenotypes and it remains unclear as to which cluster of patients will respond best to specific therapeutic strategies. However, it is possible to gain novel insights from immune-related monogenic diseases. These diseases either share common clinical manifestations, replicate steps from the three phase chronic GvHD model or serve as surrogates for perfectly targeted drugs being investigated in chronic GvHD therapy. In this review, we will summarize the evidence from these monogenic immune related diseases that provide insight into pathogenic pathways in chronic GvHD, rationales for current therapies and novel directions for future drug discovery.

Inpatient Management of Mucocutaneous GVHD

Purpose of Review

Graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) is an immune mediated disorder affecting 30 - 70% of patients after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (alloHSCT), and is a major cause of morbidity and non-relapse mortality (NRM) [1]. Dermatologists play a critical role in acute and chronic GVHD, as skin involvement is common and often the earliest involved site of disease [2].

Recent Findings

GVHD shares clinical and histopathological features with a variety of other skin diseases, requiring thorough consideration of differential diagnoses in hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) recipients with lesions suggestive of cutaneous GVHD. Treatment considerations for GVHD are influenced by factors such as disease classification, overall grading, organ involvement, associated symptoms, and immunological anti-tumor effect. Several treatments are available and may be indicated as monotherapy or adjuvant therapy to allow faster withdrawal or tapering of immunosuppression. While corticosteroids are often first line therapy, oral ruxolitinib has been recently approved for treatment of steroid-refractory aGHVD, and oral ibrutinib has been approved for steroid-refractory cGHVD.

Summary

This article provides current clinical, diagnostic, and therapeutic considerations relevant to the hospitalist for both acute and chronic mucocutaneous GVHD. Optimal inpatient management of these diseases requires an interdisciplinary team.

Immune Modulation as a Therapeutic Option During the SARS-CoV-2 Outbreak: The Case for Antimalarial Aminoquinolines

The rapid spread, severity, and lack of specific treatment for COVID-19 resulted in hasty drug repurposing. Conceptually, trials of antivirals were well-accepted, but twentieth century antimalarials sparked an impassioned global debate. Notwithstanding, antiviral and immunomodulatory effects of aminoquinolines have been investigated in vitro, in vivo and in clinical trials for more than 30 years. We review the mechanisms of action of (hydroxy)chloroquine on immune cells and networks and discuss promises and pitfalls in the fight against SARS-CoV-2, the agent of the COVID-19 outbreak.

Immunomodulatory effects of hydroxychloroquine on Th1/Th2 balance in women with repeated implantation failure

BACKGROUND

Cellular immune abnormalities such as the imbalance between T-helper (Th) 1 and Th2 cytokines have been implicated as potentially modifiable causes of idiopathic repeated implantation failures (RIF). The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of hydroxychloroquine on IL-10 and TNF-α secretion, expression of T-bet and GATA-3 transcription factors and cellular localization of TNF-α, IFN-γ, IL-10 and IL-4 in endometrial cells in women with RIF.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 17 women with a history of RIF and elevated TNFα/IL-10 ratio (TNFα/IL-10> = 30.6) were included in the study. The serum levels of TNFα and IL-10, the expression of transcription factors related to Th1 and Th2 cells and the immune-reactivity of TNFα, IFN-γ as Th1 related cytokines and IL-10, IL-4 as Th2 related cytokines in endometrial tissues were evaluated by ELISA, real-time PCR, and fluorescent immunohistochemistry respectively. All, evaluations were done both before and after treatment with hydroxychloroquine (400 mg/orally per day).

RESULTS

Hydroxychloroquine treatment significantly decreased (p < 0.0001) serum level of TNF-α and significantly increased serum level of IL-10 (p < 0.0001). T-bet, the Th1 transcription factor, expression was down-regulated and GATA-3, the Th2 transcription factor, expression was up-regulated. IL-10 and IL-4 fluorescent immunoreactivities significantly increased (p < 0.05 and p < 0.001 respectively) and TNFα and IFN-γ fluorescent immunoreactivities significantly decreased (p < 0.05) in endometrial tissue in women with RIF after treatment in comparison with before treatment.

CONCLUSION

Hydroxychloroquine administration in women with RIF With a high TNF-α/IL-10 ratio during the implantation window can decrease this ratio and seems to be an effective therapeutic strategy in RIF caused by cellular immune abnormalities through a shift in Th2 responses.

Steroid Refractory Chronic Graft-Versus-Host Disease: Cost-Effectiveness Analysis

Given the increasing incidence of chronic graft-versus-host disease (cGVHD) and its rapidly escalating costs due to many lines of drug treatments, we aimed to perform a meta-analysis to assess the comparative effectiveness of various treatment options. Using these results, we then conducted a cost-effectiveness analysis for the frequently utilized agents in steroid-refractory cGVHD. We searched for studies examining tacrolimus, sirolimus, rituximab, ruxolitinib, hydroxychloroquine, imatinib, bortezomib, ibrutinib, extracorporeal photopheresis, pomalidomide, and methotrexate. Studies with a median follow-up period shorter than 6 months and enrolling fewer than 5 patients were excluded. Meta-analysis for overall and organ system-specific GVHD response (overall response [ORR], complete response [CR], and partial response [PR]) was conducted for each intervention. Cost per CR and cost per CR + PR were calculated as the quotient of the 6-month direct treatment cost by CR and CR + PR. Forty-one studies involving 1047 patients were included. CR rates ranged from 7% to 30% with rituximab and methotrexate, respectively, and ORR ranged from 30% to 85% with tacrolimus and ruxolitinib, respectively. Cost per CR ranged from US$1,187,657 with ruxolitinib to US$680 with methotrexate. Cost per ORR ranged from US$453 for methotrexate to US$242,236 for ibrutinib. The most cost-effective strategy was methotrexate for all of the organ systems. Pomalidomide was found to be the least cost-effective treatment for eye, gastrointestinal, fascia/joint, skin, and oral GVHD, and imatinib was found to be the least cost-effective treatment for liver and extracorporeal photopheresis for lung GVHD. We observed huge cost-effectiveness differences among available agents. Attention to economic issues when treating cGVHD is important to recommend how treatments should be sequenced, knowing that many patients will cycle through available agents.

Chloroquine inhibits Ca2+ permeable ion channels-mediated Ca2+ signaling in primary B lymphocytes

BACKGROUND

Chloroquine, a bitter tastant, inhibits Ca²⁺ signaling, resulting in suppression of B cell activation; however, the inhibitory mechanism remains unclear.

RESULTS

In this study, thapsigargin (TG), but not caffeine, induced sustained intracellular Ca²⁺ increases in mouse splenic primary B lymphocytes, which were markedly inhibited by chloroquine. Under Ca²⁺-free conditions, TG elicited transient Ca²⁺ increases, which additionally elevated upon the restoration of 2 mM Ca²⁺. The former were from release of intracellular Ca²⁺ store and the latter from Ca²⁺ influx. TG-induced release was inhibited by 2-APB (an inhibitor of inositol-3-phosphate receptors, IP₃Rs) and chloroquine, and TG-caused influx was inhibited by pyrazole (Pyr3, an inhibitor of transient receptor potential C3 (TRPC3) and stromal interaction molecule (STIM)/Orai channels) and chloroquine. Moreover, chloroquine also blocked Ca²⁺ increases induced by the engagement of B cell receptor (BCR) with anti-IgM.

CONCLUSIONS

These results indicate that chloroquine inhibits Ca²⁺ elevations in splenic B cells through inhibiting Ca²⁺ permeable IP₃R and TRPC3 and/or STIM/Orai channels. These findings suggest that chloroquine would be a potent immunosuppressant.

The Biology of Chronic Graft-versus-Host Disease: A Task Force Report from the National Institutes of Health Consensus Development Project on Criteria for Clinical Trials in Chronic Graft-versus-Host Disease

Chronic graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) is the leading cause of late, nonrelapse mortality and disability in allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation recipients and a major obstacle to improving outcomes. The biology of chronic GVHD remains enigmatic, but understanding the underpinnings of the immunologic mechanisms responsible for the initiation and progression of disease is fundamental to developing effective prevention and treatment strategies. The goals of this task force review are as follows: This document is intended as a review of our understanding of chronic GVHD biology and therapies resulting from preclinical studies, and as a platform for developing innovative clinical strategies to prevent and treat chronic GVHD.

Retinal toxicity of high-dose hydroxychloroquine in patients with chronic graft-versus-host disease

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate retinal toxicity in patients treated with high-dose hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) (Plaquenil, Sanofi Pharmaceuticals) for chronic graft-versus-host disease (GVHD).

DESIGN

Cohort study.

PARTICIPANTS

Twelve patients with chronic GVHD treated with 800 mg/day HCQ between June 2005 and December 2010.

METHODS

Patients in this study underwent ophthalmologic examination yearly and ancillary studies including colour vision, Amsler grid, fundus photographs, Humphrey 10-2 automated perimetry, spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT), and multifocal electroretinography (mfERG). Evidence of HCQ toxicity was determined by the presence of scotomas in the Amsler grid and Humphrey 10-2 automated perimetry, and confirmed by at least 1 objective test including SD-OCT or mfERG.

RESULTS

Of the 12 patients, 7 were male and 5 were female. Mean age was 49 years. Mean best corrected visual acuity at baseline was 20/25 and remained 20/25 at final follow-up. Median duration of HCQ treatment was 22.8 months. Median adjusted daily dosage was 11.5 mg/kg/day. Seven patients developed vortex keratopathy. No signs of pigmentary retinopathy or bull's-eye maculopathy were found in any of the patients. Three patients developed retinal toxicity with scotomas in the Amsler grid and Humphrey 10-2 automated perimetry, as well as abnormal mfERG. Retinal structure measured by SD-OCT was abnormal in 2 of the 3 patients with retinal toxicity. Colour vision measured by Ishihara plates, as well as by 100 Hue colour test, was abnormal in 2 of the 3 patients with retinal toxicity.

CONCLUSIONS

High-dose HCQ in patients with GVHD was associated with higher incidence and earlier development of retinal toxicity.

Therapeutics targeting inflammation in the immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome

Immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (IRIS) is characterized by improvement in a previously incompetent human immune system manifesting as worsening of clinical symptoms secondary to the ability of the immune system to now mount a vigorous inflammatory response. IRIS was first recognized in the setting of human immunodeficiency virus, and this clinical setting continues to be where it is most frequently encountered. Hallmarks of the pathogenesis of IRIS, independent of the clinical presentation and the underlying pathogen, include excessive activation of the immune system, with increased circulating effector memory T cells, and elevated levels of serum cytokines and inflammatory markers. Patients with undiagnosed opportunistic infections remain at risk for unmasking IRIS at the time of active antiretroviral therapy (ART) initiation. Systematic screening for opportunistic infections before starting ART is a key element to prevent this phenomenon. Appropriate management of IRIS requires prompt recognition of the syndrome and exclusion of alternative diagnoses, particularly underlying infections and drug resistance. Controlled studies supporting the use of pharmacologic interventions in IRIS are scare, and recommendations are based on case series and expert opinions. The only controlled trial published to date, showed reduction in morbidity in patients with paradoxical tuberculosis-related IRIS with the use of oral corticosteroids. There are currently limited data to recommend other anti-inflammatory or immunomodulatory therapies that are discussed in this review, and further research is needed. Ongoing research regarding the immune pathogenesis of IRIS will likely direct future rational therapeutic approaches and clinical trials.

Extracorporeal photopheresis versus alternative treatment for chronic graft-versus-host disease after haematopoietic stem cell transplantation in paediatric patients

BACKGROUND

Chronic graft-versus-host disease (GvHD) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality after haematopoietic stem cell transplantation occurring in 6% to 65% of the recipients. Currently, the therapeutic mainstay for chronic GvHD are corticosteroids that are frequently combined with other immunosuppressive agents in people with steroid-refractory manifestations. There is no established standard treatment for steroid-refractory chronic GvHD. The therapeutic options for these patients include extracorporeal photopheresis (ECP), an immunomodulatory treatment that involves ex vivo collection of mononuclear cells from peripheral blood, exposure to the photoactive agent 8-methoxypsoralen, ultraviolet radiation and re-infusion of the processed cell product. The mechanisms of action of ECP are not completely understood. This is an updated version of a Cochrane review first published in 2014.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the effectiveness and safety of ECP for the management of chronic GvHD in children and adolescents after haematopoietic stem cell transplantation.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched the Cochrane Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) (Issue 9, 2015), MEDLINE and EMBASE databases from their inception to 23 September 2015. We searched the reference lists of potentially relevant studies without any language restriction. We searched eight trial registers and five conference proceedings on 29 September 2015.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing ECP with or without alternative treatment versus alternative treatment alone in paediatric patients with chronic GvHD after haematopoietic stem cell transplantation.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two review authors independently performed the study selection. We resolved disagreements in the selection of trials by consultation with a third review author.

MAIN RESULTS

No additional studies were identified in this 2015 review update, in total leading to no studies meeting the criteria for inclusion in this review.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

The efficacy of ECP in the treatment of chronic GvHD in paediatric patients after haematopoietic stem cell transplantation based on RCTs cannot be evaluated since the original version of this review and the first review update found no RCTs. Current recommendations are based on retrospective or observational studies only. Thus, ideally, ECP should be applied in the context of controlled trials only. However, performing RCTs in this patient population will be challenging due to the limited number of patients, the variable disease presentation and the lack of well-defined response criteria. International collaboration, multicentre trials and appropriate funding for such trials will be needed. If treatment decisions based on clinical data are made in favour of ECP, patients should be carefully monitored for beneficial and harmful effects. In addition, efforts should be made to share this information with other clinicians, for example by setting up registries for paediatric patients that are treated with ECP.

Development of polyether urethane intravaginal rings for the sustained delivery of hydroxychloroquine

Hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) has been shown to demonstrate anti-inflammatory properties and direct anti-HIV activity. In this study, we describe for the first time the fabrication and in vitro evaluation of two types of intravaginal ring (IVR) devices (a surfaced-modified matrix IVR and a reservoir segmental IVR) for achieving sustained delivery (>14 days) of HCQ as a strategy for preventing male-to-female transmission of HIV. Both IVRs were fabricated by hot-melt injection molding. Surface-modified matrix IVRs with polyvinylpyrrolidone or poly(vinyl alcohol) coatings exhibited significantly reduced burst release on the first day (6.45% and 15.72% reduction, respectively). Reservoir IVR segments designed to release lower amounts of HCQ displayed near-zero-order release kinetics with an average release rate of 28.38 μg/mL per day for IVRs loaded with aqueous HCQ and 32.23 μg/mL per day for IVRs loaded with HCQ mixed with a rate-controlling excipient. Stability studies demonstrated that HCQ was stable in coated or noncoated IVRs for 30 days. The IVR segments had no significant effect on cell viability, pro-inflammatory cytokine production, or colony formation of vaginal and ectocervical epithelial cells. Both IVR systems may be suitable for the prevention of HIV transmission and other sexually transmitted infections.

Extracorporeal photopheresis versus alternative treatment for chronic graft-versus-host disease after haematopoietic stem cell transplantation in paediatric patients

BACKGROUND

Chronic graft-versus-host disease (GvHD) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality after haematopoietic stem cell transplantation occurring in 6% to 65% of the recipients. Currently, the therapeutic mainstay for chronic GvHD are corticosteroids that are frequently combined with other immunosuppressive agents in people with steroid-refractory manifestations. There is no established standard treatment for steroid-refractory chronic GvHD. The therapeutic options in these people include extracorporeal photopheresis (ECP), an immunomodulatory treatment that involves ex vivo collection of mononuclear cells from peripheral blood, exposure to the photoactive agent 8-methoxypsoralen, ultraviolet radiation and re-infusion of the processed cell product. The mechanisms of action of ECP are not completely understood.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the effectiveness and safety of ECP for the management of chronic GvHD in children and adolescents after haematopoietic stem cell transplantation.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (Issue 9, 2012), MEDLINE and EMBASE databases from their inception to 12 September 2012. We searched the reference lists of potentially relevant studies without any language restriction. We searched eight trial registers and five conference proceedings. We also contacted experts in the field.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing ECP with or without alternative treatment versus alternative treatment alone in paediatric patients with chronic GvHD after haematopoietic stem cell transplantation.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two review authors independently performed the study selection. We resolved disagreements in the selection of trials by consultation with a third review author.

MAIN RESULTS

We found no studies meeting the criteria for inclusion in this review.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

The efficacy of ECP in the treatment of chronic GvHD in paediatric patients after haematopoietic stem cell transplantation based on RCTs can currently not be evaluated since we have found no such studies. Current recommendations are based on retrospective or observational studies only. Thus, ideally, ECP should be applied in the context of controlled trials only. However, performing RCTs in this patient population will be challenging due to the limited number of patients, the variable disease presentation and the lack of well-defined response criteria. International collaboration, multicentre trials and appropriate funding for such trials will be needed. If treatment decisions based on clinical grounds in favour of ECP are made, people should be carefully monitored for beneficial and harmful effects and efforts should be made to share this information with other clinicians, for example by setting up registries for paediatric patients that are treated with ECP.

Chloroquine: modes of action of an undervalued drug

For more than two decades, chloroquine (CQ) was largely and deliberately used as first choice drug for malaria treatment. However, worldwide increasing cases of resistant strains of Plasmodium have hampered its use. Nevertheless, CQ has recently been tested as adjunct therapy in several inflammatory situations, such as rheumatoid arthritis and transplantation procedures, presenting intriguing and promising results. In this review, we discuss recent findings and CQ mechanisms of action vis-à-vis its use as a broad adjunct therapy.

Effects of hydroxychloroquine on immune activation and disease progression among HIV-infected patients not receiving antiretroviral therapy: a randomized controlled trial

CONTEXT

Therapies to decrease immune activation might be of benefit in slowing HIV disease progression.

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether hydroxychloroquine decreases immune activation and slows CD4 cell decline.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PATIENTS

Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial performed at 10 HIV outpatient clinics in the United Kingdom between June 2008 and February 2011. The 83 patients enrolled had asymptomatic HIV infection, were not taking antiretroviral therapy, and had CD4 cell counts greater than 400 cells/μL.

INTERVENTION

Hydroxychloroquine, 400 mg, or matching placebo once daily for 48 weeks.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The primary outcome measure was change in the proportion of activated CD8 cells (measured by the expression of CD38 and HLA-DR surface markers), with CD4 cell count and HIV viral load as secondary outcomes. Analysis was by intention to treat using mixed linear models.

RESULTS

There was no significant difference in CD8 cell activation between the 2 groups (-4.8% and -4.2% in the hydroxychloroquine and placebo groups, respectively, at week 48; difference, -0.6%; 95% CI, -4.8% to 3.6%; P = .80). Decline in CD4 cell count was greater in the hydroxychloroquine than placebo group (-85 cells/μL vs -23 cells/μL at week 48; difference, -62 cells/μL; 95% CI, -115 to -8; P = .03). Viral load increased in the hydroxychloroquine group compared with placebo (0.61 log10 copies/mL vs 0.23 log10 copies/mL at week 48; difference, 0.38 log10 copies/mL; 95% CI, 0.13 to 0.63; P = .003). Antiretroviral therapy was started in 9 patients in the hydroxychloroquine group and 1 in the placebo group. Trial medication was well tolerated, but more patients reported influenza-like illness in the hydroxychloroquine group compared with the placebo group (29% vs 10%; P = .03).

CONCLUSION

Among HIV-infected patients not taking antiretroviral therapy, the use of hydroxychloroquine compared with placebo did not reduce CD8 cell activation but did result in a greater decline in CD4 cell count and increased viral replication.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

isrctn.org Identifier: ISRCTN30019040.

Inhibition of cathepsin S reduces allogeneic T cell priming but not graft-versus-host disease against minor histocompatibility antigens

Cathepsin (Cathepsin) S, L, and B proteases mediate antigen presentation on major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class II by degrading the invariant chain Ii, which blocks peptide loading. The ability of the Cathepsin S inhibitor LHVS (morpholinurea-leucine-homophenylalanine-vinylsulfone phenyl) to impede antigen presentation has led its development as a therapy for autoimmune diseases. There is substantial evidence that donor T cell recognition of host minor histocompatibility antigens (miHA) and subsequent destruction of host tissue mediates graft-versus-host disease (GVHD). We hypothesized that enzymes involved in antigen presentation may play a role in the development of GVHD. Using the C57BL/6 → BALB.B minor mismatch acute GVHD (aGVHD) model, we found that the cathepsin S activity of spleens from allogenetically transplanted mice were significantly increased 1 week after transplantation compared with syngeneic mice. Although LHVS decreased T cell priming responses against both single OVA antigen and miHA in vitro, LHVS did not reduce the severity of aGVHD. In fact, LHVS exacerbated a CD4(+)-T cell-dependent model of GVHD similar to chronic GVHD. This suggests that cytokines rather than T cells may mediate much of the damage in the aGVHD model and that therapeutics based on inhibition of antigen presentation for GVHD must be approached with caution.

Treatment of chronic graft-versus-host disease: Past, present and future

Chronic GVHD was recognized as a complication of allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation more than 30 years ago, but progress has been slowed by the limited insight into the pathogenesis of the disease and the mechanisms that lead to development of immunological tolerance. Only 6 randomized phase III treatment studies have been reported. Results of retrospective studies and prospective phase II clinical trials suggested overall benefit from treatment with mycophenolate mofetil or thalidomide, but these results were not substantiated by phase III studies of initial systemic treatment for chronic GVHD. A comprehensive review of published reports showed numerous deficiencies in studies of secondary treatment for chronic GVHD. Fewer than 10% of reports documented an effort to minimize patient selection bias, used a consistent treatment regimen, or tested a formal statistical hypothesis that was based on a contemporaneous or historical benchmark. In order to enable valid comparison of the results from different studies, eligibility criteria, definitions of individual organ and overall response, and time of assessment should be standardized. Improved treatments are more likely to emerge if reviewers and journal editors hold authors to higher standards in evaluating manuscripts for publication.

Biomarkers in chronic graft-versus-host disease

Chronic graft-versus-host disease (cGVHD ) is a leading cause of allogeneic hematopoietic stem-cell transplantation-related mortality and morbidity. It is an immune-mediated disorder that can target almost any organ in the body, often with devastating consequences. The immune-suppressive medications currently used to treat it are equally toxic and are often not very effective. At this time, our understanding of its pathophysiology is limited. The discovery of potential biomarkers offers new possibilities in the clinical management of cGVHD. They could potentially be used for diagnosing cGVHD, for predicting or evaluating response to therapy and for unique insights into the pathophysiology underlying the clinical manifestations of cGVHD. Understanding the biological origins of these biomarkers can help us construct a more comprehensive and clinically relevant model for the pathogenesis of this disease. In this article, we review existing evidence for candidate biomarkers that have been identified in the framework of how they may contribute to the pathophysiology of cGVHD. Issues regarding the discovery and application of biomarkers are discussed.

Randomized trial of hydroxychloroquine for newly diagnosed chronic graft-versus-host disease in children: a Children's Oncology Group study

The Children's Oncology Group conducted a multicenter Phase III trial for chronic graft-versus-host disease (cGVHD). The double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized study evaluated hydroxychloroquine added to standard therapy for children with newly diagnosed cGVHD. The study also used a novel grading and response scoring system and evaluated clinical laboratory correlates of cGVHD. The primary endpoint was complete response (CR) after 9 months of therapy. Fifty-four patients (27 on each arm) were enrolled before closure because of slow accrual. The CR rate was 28% in the hydroxychloroquine arm versus 33% in the placebo arm (odds ratio [OR] = 0.77, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.20-2.93, P = .75) for 42 evaluable patients. For 41 patients with severity assessment at enrollment, 20 (49%) were severe and 18 (44%) moderate according to the National Institutes of Health Consensus Conference global scoring system. The CR rate was 15% for severe cGVHD and 44% for moderate cGVHD (OR = 0.24, 95% CI: 0.05-1.06, P = .07). Although the study could not resolve the primary question, it provided important information for future cGVHD study design in this population.

Have we made progress in the management of chronic graft-vs-host disease?

Chronic graft-vs-host disease (GVHD) is a common long-term complication of allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplant that is associated with very high morbidity and mortality. In order to understand whether we have made progress in the management of chronic GVHD, it is helpful to first propose a definition of meaningful "progress". The following can be considered to be indicators of improved management of chronic GVHD: a decrease in the incidence or severity of chronic GVHD, better efficacy or decreased toxicity of therapies, better quality of life despite chronic GVHD, and improved overall and disease-free survival rates. However, to date, real progress has not been made in these areas, though there are promising new preventive strategies and treatments. Furthermore, a consensus has been reached in the research community about many different issues surrounding chronic GVHD definitions, management, and the conduct of clinical trials. These consensus documents will help to standardize efforts and data collection so that true comparisons can be made in the future and real clinical progress achieved.

Optimal management of chronic graft-versus-host disease in children

Chronic graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) is a major complication after allogeneic haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). Not only is it the major cause of late mortality in HSCT patients, but it also accounts for significant morbidity. Much of the literature on chronic GVHD has focused on adults. Chronic GVHD is of major importance in children, especially since they have years to live following the complications of chronic GVHD and its therapy. The goal is to review incidence, manifestations, and therapies, especially when applicable to the paediatric population.

Consensus Conference on Clinical Practice in Chronic GVHD: Second-Line Treatment of Chronic Graft-versus-Host Disease

Steroid refractory chronic graft-versus-host disease (cGVHD) is associated with a significant morbidity and mortality. Although first-line treatment of cGVHD is based on controlled trials, second-line treatment is almost solely based on phase II trials or retrospective analyses. The consensus conference on clinical practice in cGVHD held in Regensburg aimed to achieve a consensus on the current evidence of treatment options as well as to provide guidelines for daily clinical practice. Treatment modalities are the use of steroids and calcineurin inhibitors as well as immunomodulating modalities (photopheresis, mTOR-inhibitors, thalidomide, hydroxychloroquine, vitamin A analogs, clofazimine), and cytostatic agents (mycophenolate mofetil, methotrexate, cyclophosphamide, pentostatin). Recent reports showed some efficacy of rituximab, alemtuzumab, and etanercept in selected patients. Moreover, tyrosine kinase inihibitors such as imatinib came into the field because of their ability to interfere with the platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF-R) pathway involved in fibrosis. An other treatment option is low-dose thoracoabdominal irradiation. Although different treatment options are available, the "trial-and-error system" remains the only way to identify the drug effective in the individual patient, and valid biomarkers are eagerly needed to identify the likelihood of response to a drug in advance. Moreover, the sparse evidence for most treatment entities indicates the urgent need for systematic evaluation of second-line treatment options in cGVHD.

[A rare case of a sclerodermoid chronic graft versus host disease. Successful treatment with extracorporeal photopheresis (ECP)]

A 31-year-old woman presented with progressive deep linear induration on her lower abdomen, forearms and thighs. These symptoms developed three years after allogenic stem cell transplantation. Furthermore, the patient showed multiple hypopigmented lichenoid papules on the extensor surfaces of the forearms consistent with lichen sclerosus. Histological analysis of a biopsy specimen from her left thigh showed dermal sclerosis extending into the fascia, thus establishing the diagnosis of a rare combination of superficial and deep sclerodermoid chronic graft-versus-host disease. After 7 cycles of extracorporeal photopheresis, a marked resolution of the indurations and a reduction of the modified Rodnan skin score from 12 to 7 were noted.

Chronic graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) in children

Five-year survival rates for childhood cancer now exceed 80% and with the significant progress made by the transplant community in developing less toxic conditioning regimens and in the treatment of posttransplant complications, allo-hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) contributes significantly to that population of long-term survivors. In this context, the acute and long-term toxicities of chronic graft-versus-host disease (cGVHD) have an ever-increasing effect on organ function, quality of life, and survival; patients and families who initially felt great relief to be cured from the primary disease, now face the challenge of a chronic debilitating illness for which preventative and treatment strategies are suboptimal. Hence, the development of novel strategies that reduce and or control cGVHD, preserve graft-versus-tumor effects, facilitate engraftment and immune reconstitution, and enhance survival after allo-HSCT represents one of the most significant challenges facing physician-scientists and patients.

Hydroxychloroquine modulates metabolic activity and proliferation and induces autophagic cell death of human dermal fibroblasts

Hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) is a commonly used therapeutic agent in skin disorders. Some reports also suggest that HCQ can be useful in fibroblastic diseases of the skin. Here, we investigated the effects of HCQ in human dermal fibroblasts (HDFs). HCQ significantly reduced the metabolic activity and suppressed cell proliferation (IC(50) = approximately 30 microM) of HDFs. The antiproliferative effect of HCQ was associated with decreased activation of the extracellular signal-regulated kinases 1/2 but not with inhibition of the mammalian target of the rapamycin pathway or with dephosphorylation of Akt. HCQ induced a distinct type of cell death in HDFs, characterized by surface exposure of phosphatidylserine but a lack of morphological signs of apoptosis and absence of DNA fragmentation. The HCQ-treated HDFs instead showed autophagic vacuoles with double membranes and digested organelle content. These vacuoles showed light-chain 3 immunostaining, in accordance with increased protein amounts of this autophagy marker. Induction of autophagic cell death by HCQ was also paralleled by increased expression of Beclin-1, a key regulator of autophagy. Our findings indicate that HDFs are target cells of HCQ and form a rationale on the basis of which the in vivo effects of antimalarials can be studied in patients with aberrant fibroblast function.

Oral graft-versus-host disease

OBJECTIVE

Graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in patients receiving hematopoietic cell transplant. It is estimated that 40-70% of engrafted patients surviving the initial transplant eventually develop chronic GVHD (cGVHD), which can persist for months to years and require long-term management from multiple disciplines. This review describes the oral component of this transplant complication.

DESIGN

The search related to GVHD patho-biology, salivary gland disease after hematopoietic cell transplant and treatments for oral GVHD encompassed literature from 1966 through 2008. Searches were limited to the MEDLINE/PubMed database and English language literature in peer-reviewed journals.

RESULTS

Our understanding of the patho-biology of oral cGVHD is based on studies of other affected tissues. It is difficult to determine the prevalence and incidence of salivary gland disease after transplant because there is no universally accepted case definition. In general, clinical trials for treatment of oral cGVHD have been too small to make strong recommendations for use in clinical practice.

CONCLUSIONS

Larger well-designed clinical studies are needed to understand the patho-biology of oral cGVHD and determine best treatments for this disease.

A randomized double-blind trial of hydroxychloroquine for the prevention of chronic graft-versus-host disease after allogeneic peripheral blood stem cell transplantation

Hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) is an immunosuppressive lysosomotropic amine that has activity against graft-versus-host disease (GVHD). In a single-institution phase III trial, 95 recipients of allogeneic peripheral blood stem cell (PBSC) transplantation were randomized to receive, in a double-blind fashion, and in addition to prophylactic cyclosporine A (CSA), HCQ, or placebo starting 21 days pretransplant and continued until day +365. HCQ was very well tolerated and not associated with side effects. Overall, the incidence of acute GVHD (aGVHD) was 59% in both arms, and severe aGVHD occurred in 11% (HCQ) and 14% (placebo) (P = .76). Sixty percent and 78% of patients developed chronic GVHD (cGVHD) in the HCQ and the placebo arms, respectively (P = .15). With a median follow-up of 18 months, relapse-free and overall survivals (OS) were comparable in both groups. In summary, in this randomized trial, the addition of HCQ to single-agent CSA had no effects on aGVHD or cGVHD or survival.

The management and outcome of chronic graft-versus-host disease

Chronic graft-versus-host disease (cGVHD) is a common complication following allogeneic haematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT). It is the leading cause of non-relapse mortality in transplant survivors and has a significant impact upon their functional status and quality of life. Despite significant advances being made in the field of HCT over the past 25 years, there has been little change in the incidence, morbidity and mortality of cGVHD. This is partly because of a lack of understanding about the pathogenesis of the disorder but also because a lack of well validated grading systems and outcome measures has hindered clinical research. Strategies for prophylaxis have largely been unsuccessful and may compromise the graft-versus-leukaemia (GVL) effect. Standard primary treatment remains a combination of corticosteroids and calcineurin inhibitors. There is no standard therapy for those who fail to respond to corticosteroids. Many agents have been studied but there is an urgent need for systematic research to compare the efficacy of different approaches. Infection is the leading cause of death among patients with cGVHD so antimicrobial prophylaxis is mandatory. A multidisciplinary approach to the care of patients with cGVHD is essential to adequately address its effects on both physical and psychological functioning.

The effect of budesonide mouthwash on oral chronic graft versus host disease

Oral chronic graft versus host disease (cGVHD) is common and a major cause of morbidity and loss of quality of life in long term survivors. Cyclosporine with prednisone remains the first line therapy for oral manifestations of cGVHD. However, even with routine administration of systemic agents, many patients with oral manifestations of cGVHD do not have resolution of their disease and may benefit from incorporation of local therapy. Budesonide is a highly potent steroid which has minimal systemic side effects and being used for oral cGVHD. We designed a retrospective study to compare treatment results of patients with oral cGVHD who received topical budesonide in addition to systemic therapy that consists of combined prednisone and cyclosporine (Group A, n = 12), with the treatment results of patients who were administered the same systemic therapy alone (Group B, n = 11) to determine whether budesonide mouthwash had any advantage on response rates. Three mg topical budesonide/10 ml saline was used 3-4 times a day for up to 6 months in group A. Diagnosis, clinical staging, and treatment response scoring for cGVHD were performed according to National Institutes of Health (NIH) consensus criteria. At the baseline examination, there were no statistically significant differences in terms of median oral cGVHD examination scores between two groups. After treatment, there was statistically significant decrease in median oral cGVHD examination scores compared to baseline (P < 0.001 and 0.021), and significant differences were found between two groups (P < 0.032). Overall response rate was 83% and 36% for group A and B, respectively (P = 0.036). However, no statistically significant differences were found between median pain scores of two groups before and after treatment (P = 0.740 and P = 0.091). No major systemic side effects and oral candidiasis were observed in two groups of patients. We concluded that topical budesonide might be added to systemic therapy to obtain better response rates in patients with oral cGHVD.

Altered Toll-like receptor 9 responses in circulating B cells at the onset of extensive chronic graft-versus-host disease

B cells appear to play a role in chronic graft-versus-host disease (cGVHD) as shown in murine models and the success of anti-CD20 B cell antibody treatment in humans. Recent studies have shown that immunostimulatory microbial CpG-DNA splenic responses were enhanced in murine GVHD. We hypothesized that CpG-induced B cell responses are increased in human cGVHD. Newly diagnosed cGVHD patients enrolled on the COG protocol ASCT0031 were divided into early (3-8 months postblood and marrow transplant [BMT]) and late (> or =9 months post-BMT) onset groups and compared to time-matched control BMT patients. A significantly greater percentage of phosphorothioate (PS)-modified CpG stimulated B cells from cGVHD patients demonstrated an increased expression of CD86 compared to controls (P = .0004). This response had a significant correlation between B cell TLR9 expression (r(2) = 0.65; P = .002) and CD86 upregulation using the entirely TLR9-dependent native phosphodiester CpG (P = .003). The PS-modified CpG response at 2 months after initiation of cGVHD therapy demonstrated a trend toward predicting therapeutic response at 9 months post-BMT (P = .07). These findings suggest that an increased number of B cells, primed for a TLR9 response, may play a role in the pathophysiology of cGVHD.

Diagnosis and treatment of chronic graft-versus-host disease

Chronic graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) is the major cause of non-relapse morbidity and mortality after hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT). GVHD also is associated with a potent anti-leukemic effect. Chronic GVHD resembles autoimmune diseases and can likely affect any organ or tissue of the body. Skin, oral, liver, and lacrimal gland involvement are most common. The incidence and presentation have been in evolution as new stem cell sources and transplant approaches have been introduced. Although progress in the diagnosis and treatment of chronic GVHD has been limited for many years, there is renewed interest in this disorder. New prognostic scores and animal models of chronic GVHD have been developed. Large, multicenter phase III therapy and biology studies have been undertaken. The challenge for the future will be the discovery of targeted approaches that allow the anti-leukemic effect to be retained and for the reconstitution of normal immunity, thereby reducing infectious complications.

Chronic graft-versus-host disease

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Chronic graft-versus-host disease is an important cause of late morbidity and mortality after allogeneic stem cell transplantation. With the renewed interest in its pathophysiology and treatment, this review discusses recent clinical and laboratory advances in this disease. Advances in pathophysiology, the relationship between chronic graft-versus-host disease and relapse incidence, and recent developments in the prophylaxis, initial therapy, and therapy for refractory disease are discussed.

RECENT FINDINGS

A better understanding of the pathophysiology of chronic graft-versus-host disease, including the potential role of a coordinated B-cell and T-cell response, is demonstrated. Corticosteroids and cyclosporine or tacrolimus remain the standard as initial therapy. This combination is effective in the majority of affected patients, although therapy is often required for longer than 1 year. Although no strategy has been demonstrated to be effective in specifically preventing chronic graft-versus-host disease, several drugs have recently been demonstrated to be effective therapeutic agents for steroid-refractory disease. Agents such as mycophenolate mofetil, sirolimus, and rituximab have demonstrated response rates of greater than 60% in patients with steroid-refractory disease.

SUMMARY

Renewed interest and understanding of chronic graft-versus-host disease have led to novel treatment strategies for steroid-refractory disease. A focus on the initial therapy and prophylaxis against chronic graft-versus-host disease is now warranted.

Chronic graft versus host disease of oral mucosa: Review of available therapies

The use of hematopoetic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) has greatly expanded in the recent years for many neoplastic and hematological disorders. Chronic graft versus host disease (cGVHD) is a major complication of allogeneic HSCT and a major cause of morbidity and mortality. Oral mucosal involvement is frequent in cGVHD and contributes significantly to the overall burden of the condition. Oral medicine professionals should be familiar with various treatment options for oral cGVHD. This review discusses treatment modalities available for the management of oral mucosal manifestations of cGVHD. Available evidence for efficacy and safety of various systemic and topical agents, including corticosteroids, calcineurin antagonists, mycophenolate mofetil, and extracorporeal photopheresis, is reviewed.