Female genital chronic graft-versus-host disease: importance of early diagnosis to avoid severe complications

Current Approaches for the Prevention and Treatment of Acute and Chronic GVHD

Whereas aGVHD has strong inflammatory components, cGVHD displays autoimmune and fibrotic features; incidence and risk factors are similar but not identical; indeed, the aGVHD is the main risk factor for cGVHD. Calcineurin Inhibitors (CNI) with either Methotrexate (MTX) or Mycophenolate (MMF) still represent the standard prophylaxis in HLA-matched allogeneic stem cell transplantation (HSCT); other strategies focused on ATG, Post-Transplant Cyclophosphamide (PTCy), Abatacept and graft manipulation. Despite the high rate, first-line treatment for aGVHD is represented by corticosteroids, and Ruxolitinib is the standard second-line therapy; investigational approaches include Microbiota transplant and the infusion of Mesenchymal stem cells. GVHD is a pleiotropic disease involving any anatomical district; also, Ruxolitinib represents the standard for steroid-refractory cGVHD in this setting. It is a pleiotropic disease involving any anatomical district; also, Ruxolitinib represents the standard for steroid-refractory cGVHD in this setting. Extracorporeal Photopheresis (ECP) is still an option used for steroid refractoriness or to achieve a steroid-sparing. For Ruxolitinib-refractory cGVHD, Belumosudil and Axatilimab represent the most promising agents. Bronchiolitis obliterans syndrome (BOS) still represents a challenge; among the compounds targeting non-immune effectors, Alvelestat, a Neutrophil elastase inhibitor, seems promising in BOS. Finally, in both aGVHD and cGVHD, the association of biological markers with specific disease manifestations could help refine risk stratification and the availability of reliable biomarkers for specific treatments.

Role of Endoscopic Techniques in the Diagnosis of Complications of Allogeneic Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation: A Review of the Literature

Allogeneic stem cell transplantation (Allo-SCT) implies that a donor and a recipient are not genetically identical. Allo-SCT is used to cure a variety of conditions, including hematologic malignancies using the graft versus tumor effect, nonmalignant hematologic, immune deficiencies, and, more recently, genetic disorders and inborn errors of metabolism. Given the immunosuppressive and myeloablative nature of some of the conditioning chemotherapy regimens used during the Allo-SCT, patients are often at high risk of infection, including viral infections affecting the gastrointestinal tract, following the transplant. Furthermore, other complications such as hepatic sinusoidal obstruction syndrome (SOS) or graft-versus-host disease may occur post-transplant and may require endoscopy to assist in the diagnosis. This review will provide newer insights into the importance of endoscopic techniques in the diagnosis of post-Allo-SCT complications with a focus on safety and timing.

Vaginal complications of graft-versus-host disease after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation: a cross-sectional study

Background

Stem cell transplantation is a clinical approach used to treat certain types of cancers, such as hematologic malignancies. Graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) occurs in 30-70% of cases and often diminishes the quality of life of transplant patients. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of vaginal complications of GVHD following hematopoietic stem cell transplantation.

Methods

This study employed an analytical cross-sectional design. All patients referred to Shariati Hospital in Tehran between 2019 and 2020 who underwent hematopoietic stem cell transplantation were considered for inclusion in this study if they met the inclusion criteria. Inclusion criteria encompassed nonnot sexually active women aged 18-70 who received stem cell transplantation more than 100 days prior. Exclusion criteria comprised patients who experienced GVHD during the first 100 days posttransplantation. Additionally, individuals over 75 and patients with metastatic cancer were excluded.

Results

A total of 55 patients were recruited, with ages averaging 40±9.9 years for recipients and 38.5±12.8 years for donors. Notably, 63.3 and 58.2% of patients exhibited oral and ocular symptoms, respectively. Regarding genital involvement, 49.1% experienced vaginal symptoms, while 25.5% had vulvar involvement. Among the 27 patients with vaginal involvement, two (7.4%) were categorized as mild, 17 (63%) as moderate, and eight (29.6%) as severe. Univariate analysis identified reduced vaginal discharge [odds ratio (OR=6.56)], vaginal tightness (OR=6.23), pelvic pain (OR=5.50), and vaginal involvement (OR=3.81) as significant predictors of other organ symptoms. Moreover, vaginal involvement (OR=3.68) emerged as the sole significant predictor of the cooccurrence of oral, ocular, and other organ symptoms. In the multivariate analysis, reduced vaginal discharge (OR=8.24) and vaginal tightness (OR=3.92) significantly predicted other organ symptoms (P=0.009).

Conclusion

Reduced vaginal discharge and vaginal tightness remained significant predictors of other organ symptoms.

Genital chronic graft-versus-host disease: an unmet need that requires trained gynecologists

OBJECTIVE

Menopause and chronic graft-versus-host disease (cGvHD) are the leading causes of morbidity after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (alloHSCT). Genitalia are one of the target organs of cGvHD causing sexual dysfunction and local symptoms, which may impair women's quality of life. The aim of this study is to describe the prevalence and clinical characteristics of genital cGvHD.

METHODS

A retrospective cross-sectional observational study was performed including 85 women with alloHSCT. All women were diagnosed and counseled by a trained gynecologist. Health-related quality of life was assessed by the Cervantes Short-Form Scale and sexual function was evaluated by the Female Sexual Function Index.

RESULTS

Seventeen women (20%) included in the study were diagnosed with genital cGvHD. The main complaints were vulvovaginal dryness (42.2%) and dyspareunia (29.4%), the presence of erythema/erythematous plaques (52.9%) being the most frequent sign. Median time from transplant to diagnosis of genital cGvHD was 17 months among those with mild involvement, 25 months for moderate and 42 months for severe forms. Mortality was 29.4% in patients who developed cGvHD with genital involvement versus 8.8% among those without (p = 0.012).

CONCLUSION

Early gynecological evaluation might allow to identify patients with mild forms of genital cGvHD, potentially enabling better management and improved outcomes.

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.

Decisional Regret in Long-Term Australian Allogeneic Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation Survivors: A Cross-Sectional Survey

Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT) is an intensive but effective treatment for malignant and non-malignant diseases. However, long-term survival often comes at a cost, with survivors experiencing chronic morbidity and are at risk of relapse and secondary malignancy. This study aimed to describe decisional regret in a large cohort of Australian long-term allo-HSCT survivors. A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 441 adults in New South Wales, assessing quality of life (QoL), psychological, social, demographic, and clinical variables. Less than 10% of survivors expressed regret, with chronic graft-versus-host disease being the most important clinical factor. Psycho-socioeconomic factors such as depression, lower QoL scores, lower household income, higher treatment burden, and not resuming sex post-HSCT were also associated with regret. Findings highlight the need for valid informed consent and ongoing follow-up and support for allo-HSCT survivors dealing with life post-transplant. Nurses and healthcare professionals play a critical role in addressing decisional regret in these patients.

Returning to employment following allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplant: A major problem among survivors

Quality of life (QoL) is an important aspect of cancer survivorship. One of the most acute problems that impact survivors in many aspects of activities of daily living and compromise their QoL is the inability to return to employment following successful cancer therapy. This is most prominent among survivors after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplant (allo-HSCT). More than 50% of the survivors following allo-HSCT remain unemployed one year after the procedure. This problem extends beyond the initial few years; unemployment rates among those who underwent allo-HSCT during their childhoods or adolescence have remained high. The inability to return to employment imposes a financial burden. Survivors following allo-HSCT also experience a multitude of chronic psychosocial complications that may be both contributing and consequential to the inability to return to employment. However, many transplant programs and cancer centers do not have return-to-employment programs. In this review paper, we discuss the prevalence of unemployment following allo-HSCT. We examine the psychosocial symptoms experienced by survivors and how they may affect survivors' ability to return to employment. Finally, we propose a multi-disciplinary multi-pronged occupation-focused approach to address the complex and inter-related psychosocial symptoms to help alleviate the problem.

Reproductive late effects after hematopoietic stem cell transplant in pediatric, adolescent, and young adult cancer survivors

Reproductive late effects after hematopoietic stem cell transplant can have a significant impact on cancer survivors' quality of life. Potential late effects include gonadal insufficiency, genital graft-versus-host disease, uterine injury, psychosexual dysfunction, and an increased risk of breast and cervical cancer in patients treated with total body irradiation. Despite guidelines, screening and treatment are not standardized among at-risk patients. Provider barriers include lack of knowledge of at-risk therapies and evidenced-based guidelines. Patient barriers include a reluctance to report symptoms and lack of awareness of treatment options. System barriers include inefficient implementation of screening tools and poor dissemination of guidelines to providers who serve as the medical home for survivors. This review guides the clinician in identifying and managing reproductive late effects after hematopoietic stem cell transplant to improve outcomes.

Genital GVHD in Female Children and Adolescents: A Systematic Review of Case Reports and Case Series

Genital graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) is an underdiagnosed manifestation of chronic GVHD. Few articles have been published in pediatric populations, and there are no established guidelines for the management of this condition in children. This study aims to provide a systematic literature review of the published studies and cases of genital (vulvovaginal) GVHD in girls and adolescents post HSCT, with a focus on the time of diagnosis and clinical manifestations. The authors searched for English-language articles published after 1990, which included full patient details. Thirty-two cases of female patients under 20 years of age were identified. The median time of diagnosis was 381 days (IQR: 226-730 days), and 83% of patients developed Grade 3 vulvovaginal GVHD. Based on these observations, an early pediatric gynecologic examination of these patients, soon within the first year after HSCT, could be suggested for early diagnosis, treatment initiation and prevention of long-term complications.

Chronic graft-versus-host disease in pediatric patients: Differences and challenges

Despite the use of high-resolution molecular techniques for tissue typing, chronic graft-versus-host disease (cGVHD) remains a major complication following allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplant. cGVHD adversely affects the life-expectancy and quality of life. The latter is particularly important and functionally relevant in pediatric patients who have a longer life-expectancy than adults. Current laboratory evidence suggests that there is not any difference in the pathophysiology of cGVHD between adults and pediatric patients. However, there are some clinical features and complications of the disease that are different in pediatric patients. There are also challenges in the development of new therapeutics for this group of patients. In this review, we will discuss the epidemiology, pathophysiology, clinical features and consequences of the disease, and highlight the differences between pediatric and adult patients. We will examine the current treatment options for pediatric patients with moderate to severe cGVHD and discuss the challenges facing therapeutic development for cGVHD in the pediatric population.

Vulvar and Vaginal Graft Versus Host Disease After Allogeneic Stem Cell Transplant-A Systematic Review

OBJECTIVE

To conduct a systematic literature search to identify and determine the prevalence, signs and symptoms, and clinical management of vulvar and vaginal graft versus host disease (GVHD).

METHODS

A systematic literature search of articles from 1993 to August 2022 was performed. Studies were included if full text was available in the English language and provided reports on female subjects with more than four patients. Review articles, conference abstracts, case reports, and case series of less than 5 patients were excluded. Included studies had their reference list searched for further manuscripts. Two authors reviewed the search results and independently identified studies that met the selection criteria and summarized available data.

RESULTS

There were 29 studies available in the literature that met the inclusion criteria. There was a high risk of bias within the available literature. The prevalence of vulval and vaginal GVHD varied between 27% and 66% of women after allogeneic stem cell transplant. Other organ GVHD, most commonly the skin, mouth, and eyes, may be present concurrently in these patients, or they may be asymptomatic. Specialist gynecology review, topical estrogen, topical steroids, topical immunosuppression, and vaginal dilatation led to a reduction in complications associated with the condition, and surgery was helpful in some severe refractory cases. These patients remain at higher risk of developing cervical dysplasia, and regular human papillomavirus screening is recommended.

CONCLUSIONS

Female genital GVHD is a rare phenomenon. Early, coordinated, and regular gynecological reviews after stem cell transplant are essential to reduce the long-term complications.

Patient reported improvement in sexual health outcomes following care in a sexual health clinic for women with cancer

PURPOSE

Sexual health concerns are common among female cancer survivors. Few data exist regarding patient-reported outcomes following interventions in this population. We aimed to determine patient-reported adherence and impact of interventions provided in an academic specialty clinic for treatment of sexual health problems.

METHODS

A cross-sectional quality improvement survey regarding sexual problems, adherence with recommended therapies, and improvement following intervention was administered to all women seen at the Women's Integrative Sexual Health (WISH) program at the University of Wisconsin-Madison between November 2013 and July 2019. Descriptive and Kruskal-Wallis tests were used to explore differences between groups.

RESULTS

Two hundred twenty women (median age at first visit = 50 years, 53.1% breast cancer) were identified; N =113 surveys were completed (response rate = 49.6%). The most common presenting complaints were pain with intercourse (87.2%), vaginal dryness (85.3%), and low libido (82.6%). Menopausal women were more likely than premenopausal women to present with vaginal dryness (93.4% vs. 69.7%, p = .001) and pain with intercourse (93.4% vs. 76.5%, p = .02). Nearly all women adhered to recommendations for vaginal moisturizers/lubricants (96.9-100%) and vibrating vaginal wands (82.4-92.3%). A majority found recommended interventions helpful regardless of menopausal status or cancer type and reported persistent improvement. Nearly all women had improvement in understanding sexual health (92%) and would recommend the WISH program to others (91%).

CONCLUSION

Women with cancer report integrative sexual health care to address sexual problems that are helpful and result in long-term improvement. Patients are overall highly adherent to recommended therapies, and nearly all would recommend the program to others.

IMPLICATIONS FOR CANCER SURVIVORS

Dedicated care to address sexual health in women after cancer treatment improves patient-reported sexual health outcomes across all cancer types.

Pediatric Vulvovaginal Graft-Versus-Host Disease: A Retrospective Cohort Study and Literature Review

STUDY OBJECTIVE

To assess genital symptomatology, characterize the findings of genital examination, and describe the incidence and treatment of vulvovaginal graft-versus-host disease (vvGvHD) in girls and adolescents after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT).

DESIGN

Retrospective cohort.

SETTING

Metropolitan-area children's hospital.

PARTICIPANTS

Female allogeneic HSCT recipients ages 0 to 22 years.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Genital symptoms, genital examination, diagnosis, and treatment of vvGvHD.

RESULTS

A total of 57 participants were included in the analysis. The median age at the time of HSCT was 10 years (range 4 months-23 years). Most (n = 40, 71%) underwent transplant for a nonmalignant condition, most commonly sickle cell anemia (n = 19, 33%). The median time of onset of GvHD post HSCT was 62 days (IQR = 42 to 151 days). The most common initial site of GvHD was skin (n = 21, 64%), followed by GI tract (n = 10, 30%). Three patients (5%) were diagnosed with vvGvHD. The time of onset of vvGvHD post HSCT ranged from 62 to 1565 days. One patient (33%) was asymptomatic at the time of diagnosis. There was no difference in diagnosis of vvGvHD when race (P = 0.15), age at allogeneic HSCT (P = 0.64), nonmalignant vs malignant indication (P = 0.21), source of stem cells (P = 0.25), partial vs full human leukocyte antigens (HLA) donor match (P = 0.34), and GvHD prophylaxis regimen (P = 0.18) were compared. None had isolated vvGvHD. Vulvovaginal GvHD was preceded by skin GvHD in 1 patient, was preceded by lung GvHD in 1 patient, and occurred concurrently with skin GvHD in the third patient.

CONCLUSIONS

Pediatric vvGvHD can occur within the first 100 days after transplant and can be asymptomatic. Routine gynecologic evaluation post allogeneic HSCT in children and adolescents should include a thorough review of vulvovaginal symptoms and a gynecologic exam for the detection and treatment of vvGvHD.

Graft-Versus-Host Disease Associated Post-operative Complications After Pelvic Reconstructive Surgery: A Case Report

Introduction: Graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) can occur after allogeneic bone marrow transplantation (BMT) and can affect the skin, gastrointestinal tract, lungs, liver, and vulvovaginal areas. Case Presentation: This case report described a 65-year-old multiparous patient with myelodysplastic syndrome who underwent a matched unrelated donor transplant approximately 3 years before her surgery. After her BMT she developed GVHD. She underwent anterior and posterior repair and uterosacral ligament suspension for stage III post-hysterectomy vaginal vault prolapse. Her postoperative course was complicated by mental status changes, abnormal liver function tests, and increasing abdominal distention. All her post-operative symptoms were resolved with conservative management. Conclusions: This case presentation highlights the potential atypical post-operative course of BMT patients with GVHD. The management of patients with GVHD relies heavily on the early involvement of hematologists.

Sexual and Emotional Health after Allogeneic Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation: A Comprehensive Review and Guidelines from the Francophone Society of Bone Marrow Transplantation and Cellular Therapy (SFGM-TC)

A person’s sexual and emotional life is greatly impacted after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT). This topic is not addressed very much by patients and caregivers. Physical, endocrine and genital chronic graft versus host disease (cGVHD)-related disorders are multiple and intertwined with psychological disorders. The Francophone Society of Bone Marrow Transplantation and Cellular Therapy (SFGM-TC) has issued recommendations for a better gynecological monitoring of female recipients after allo-HCT. A patient booklet was also offered to patients in the form of questions and answers to facilitate discussions between patients and caregivers and to improve the management of sexual and emotional life after transplant.

Late follow-up of genital and ophthalmologic chronic graft-versus-host disease in females after allogeneic stem cell transplantation

INTRODUCTION

Genital chronic graft-versus-host disease (cGvHD) is a common late effect after allogeneic stem cell transplantation. In a previous cross-sectional study, prevalence, signs and symptoms of genital and extra-genital cGvHD were accounted for in a cohort of 42 women. Classifications of cGvHD were performed as per the National Institutes of Health (NIH) 2005 criteria. In this follow-up study on surviving women, the aim was to assess genital and extra-genital cGvHD status after long period of time. Our hypothesis was that signs and symptoms of cGvHD alleviate over time.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

All surviving women (n = 38) were re-examined by an ophthalmologist, a gynecologist and a hematologist. Signs and symptoms were classified according to the NIH 2014 criteria. Clinical scorings of affected organs were combined for estimating global score of cGvHD. To make possible comparisons between the two studies, data from the original study were re-classified as per the NIH 2014 criteria, and the four dead women were excluded. The same questionnaires were completed. Cervical smear, human papilloma virus test and vulvar photo-documentation were performed.

RESULTS

Median time after original study was 8.4 (5.8-12) years and after transplant 14.5 (10-19.3) years. The prevalence of genital cGvHD was similar in the original (50%) and follow-up (58%) studies (p = 0.646) as well as extra-genital cGvHD. Systemic corticosteroid treatment of cGvHD was ongoing in 34% and 29%, respectively (p = 0.805). Ocular cGvHD was found in 24 of 37 examined women (65%) in the follow-up study. Genital cGvHD had disappeared in three women and developed in two women 5-12 and 9-17 years, respectively, after transplantation. The severity of global cGvHD changed over time in 14 women, but was the same on group level (p = 0.345). Atrophic mucous membranes as in estrogen deficiency were seen in 66%. Three women had human papilloma virus genotypes associated with the risk of developing cervical cancer.

CONCLUSIONS

Chronic GvHD did not alleviate over time. Allotransplanted women require early and continuous life-long contact with a gynecologist and an ophthalmologist for the detection of cGvHD. Specific attention should be given to the need for local estrogen and the risk of genital epithelial malignancies.

Early Detection of Vulvovaginal Graft-Versus-Host Disease: An Integrative Review

Introduction:

Vulvovaginal graft-vs.-host disease (VVGvHD) is a condition caused by a T-cell mounted immune response after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplant (alloHSCT), which can lead to sclerotic changes of the external genital organs. A common complication of alloHSCT, VVGvHD is underreported and underdiagnosed in female patients. Without detection and treatment, VVGvHD can progress to complete obliteration of the vaginal canal requiring surgical intervention in severe cases.

Design:

This review summarizes findings to assist providers in detecting and treating VVGvHD. It utilized PubMed, Scopus, and CINAHL databases. Inclusion criteria consisted of female patients, a history of stem cell transplantation, and a history of VVGvHD. Studies not published in English and dated more than 15 years were excluded. After the evaluation of 333 articles, 10 were included based on relevance and applicability. Limitations of this review included small sample sizes, retrospective nature of articles, and lack of randomized control trials.

Findings:

Early identification of VVGvHD requires identifying the rate of occurrence and risk factor profile, recognizing the presenting symptoms, improving VVGvHD assessment techniques, ascertaining when to biopsy, and establishing clinically targeted surveillance programs.

Conclusion:

For female patients who have undergone alloHSCT, targeted surveillance for early identification of VVGvHD results in earlier treatment initiation. Subsequently, this can improve sexual health, partner relationships, and quality of life in patients after stem cell transplant.

Late-Onset Acute and Chronic Graft-versus-Host Disease in Children: Clinical Features and Response to Therapy

Although acute graft-versus-host disease (aGVHD) and chronic GVHD (cGVHD) are known causes of morbidity and mortality after allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT), the syndrome of late aGVHD is less well understood, particularly in children. We aimed to characterize the clinical features and response to therapy of late aGVHD and cGVHD by retrospectively reviewing 573 consecutive patients age <18 years who underwent their first allogeneic HCT at the University of Minnesota. We included patients with de novo late aGVHD (ie, first occurrence of aGVHD after day +100 post-HCT) and cGVHD. We retrospectively scored cGVHD cases based on the 2014 National Institutes of Health guidelines. At 3 years, 9 patients (2%) had developed late aGVHD, 16 (3%) had overlap cGVHD, and 7 had (1%) classic cGVHD. No cases of joint or genital cGVHD were observed. The overall response to therapy at 6 months was 78% (95% confidence interval [CI], 40% to 97%) after late aGVHD and 43% (95% CI, 23% to 66%) after cGVHD. Higher nonrelapse mortality from day +100 was seen in patients with cGVHD but not in those with late aGVHD compared with patients without GVHD (hazard ratio, 3.6 [95% CI, 1.3 to 10.0] and 1.6 [95% CI, 0.2 to 11.7], respectively). We found variable organ involvement and treatment responses between patients with late aGVHD and those with cGVHD in a single-center pediatric cohort. Further research is needed to investigate the risks and clinical features of late aGVHD and cGVHD in larger cohorts to better understand how to tailor even more effective GVHD preventive and therapeutic approaches in children.

Patterns of Genital Examination and Vulvovaginal Graft-Versus-Host Disease in a Pediatric Post-Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplant Population

STUDY OBJECTIVE

To determine vulvovaginal graft-versus-host disease (vvGVHD) incidence among pediatric patients who have received hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) and who already have graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) involving any organ system and characterize patterns of genital examination and referral to pediatric and adolescent gynecology (PAG) in the post-HSCT population.

DESIGN

Retrospective chart review.

SETTING

Large tertiary children's hospital in Texas.

PARTICIPANTS

Eighty-six post-HSCT female patients 21 years old and younger with GVHD involving any organ system.

INTERVENTIONS

None.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

vvGVHD among post-HSCT children, referrals to PAG, genital examinations documented by any clinician.

RESULTS

Eighty-six patients met inclusion criteria. Most HSCTs were bone marrow transplants, typically for leukemia. Median ages of indication diagnosis and HSCT were 5.1 and 7.5 years, respectively. Median time from HSCT to first GVHD diagnosis (eg, skin, intestine) was 96 days. Nearly all patients had at least 1 genital exam documented in the first 2 years post-HSCT, with a median of 17 exams. Twenty-eight patients were seen by PAG post-HSCT, with 7 of these patients seen within the first 2 years post-HSCT. Four symptomatic patients were diagnosed with vvGVHD. Median time from HSCT to vvGVHD was 398 days.

CONCLUSION

The small number of vvGVHD cases in our study population is likely because of lack of symptom reporting from patients and families and difficulty with vvGVHD diagnosis. Further training for non-PAG physicians, including pediatricians and oncologists, in identifying and managing vvGVHD might prevent delayed diagnosis and severe sequelae. Earlier referral to PAG or a gynecologist versed in post-HSCT survivorship is also recommended.

Sexual Functioning in Long-Term Survivors of Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation

This investigation characterized sexual activity and sexual function in hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) survivors, compared them with norms, and examined factors associated with sexual dysfunction, with the goal of identifying targets for intervention to improve sexual health. Surviving adults from a large transplantation center were asked to complete an annual survey with a core of health questions and a module on sexual activity and function. Participants completed the Sexual Function Questionnaire, Cancer and Treatment Distress form, and Revised Dyadic Adjustment Scale. Clinical data were collected from the transplantation medical database. Multivariate logistic regressions identified factors associated with sexual activity and function. Participating survivors (n = 1742) were a mean of 11.9 years (range, .4 to 43.1 years) after HCT, mean age 57.6 years, and 53% male. Women were more likely than men to report being sexually inactive in the past year (39% versus 27%) and, among those sexually active, to report low sexual function (64% versus 32%). Male and female survivors reported lower rates of sexual activity and function than comparison norms (all P < .01). In regressions, factors associated with being sexually inactive included older age, having <4 years of college education, low performance status, and not being in a committed relationship. Additional factors for men included receipt of nonmyeloablative conditioning and not being employed or in school. Low sexual functioning for men and women was associated with low performance status, and, for women, a committed relationship of lower quality, while for men the association was with older age. Sexual dysfunction is common in both men and women after HCT, regardless of time since treatment. Survivors need routine evaluation and access to multimodal interventions.

Association between sexuality knowledge and sexual dysfunction in hematopoietic stem cell transplantation patients and their partners

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the association of sexual knowledge with sexual desire, sexual activity, and sexual satisfaction in hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) patients and partners, and their willingness to participate in sexual education.

METHODS

This is a multi-center survey. Patients were eligible if they had received HSCT. Patients' current sexual partners were invited to the study unless they had limitations on sexual activity. Sexual desire, activity and satisfaction was assessed using the Sexual Activity Questionnaire. Sexual knowledge, experience of information seeking, sexual counseling or education, and willingness of participate in sexual education were assessed using questionnaire.

RESULTS

Of 151 participants, 61.8 % had experience of receiving counseling about their sexual issues after HSCT. Compared to the lower sexual knowledge group, participants with higher sexual knowledge reported to be 1.91 times more sexually active with 3.04 times higher sexual desire. Among the participants, 79.4 % of participants had the willingness to receive sexual education after HSCT and preferred to receive sexual education from sexual education specialists CONCLUSIONS: Higher sexual knowledge was associated with higher sexual desire, sexual activity, and sexual satisfaction.

PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS

Sexual education should be provided to patients and their partners after HCST by trained experts for HSCT patient's sexual life.

The management of gynecological complications in long-term survivors after allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation-a single-center real-life experience

In everyday gynecological practice, there is an unmet need to manage survivors after allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (allo-HCT). The major gynecological complications include premature ovarian insufficiency (POI), chronic graft-versus-host disease (cGVHD) of the anogenital zone (cGVHDgyn), and secondary neoplasms. Aiming to assess a real-life scale of problems associated with HCT, we performed a detailed analysis of a consecutive series of females after allo-HCT who were referred for a routine gynecological evaluation. The study includes 38 females after allo-HCT in whom gynecological examination with cervical smear and USG were performed, followed by colposcopy according to NCCN guidelines. NIH scoring system was used to classify a grade of cGVHDgyn. The incidence of cGVHD was 71% whereas GVHDgyn was 29%, including 5 patients with score 3 at the time of diagnosis. The other manifestations (frequently noted) included the skin, mucosa, eyes, and liver. Menopause was diagnosed in 93% females, and in 81% of them, POI criteria were fulfilled. Ovarian function resumed in 2 cases. The rate of abnormal cytology was 26%: 4 ASCUS, 1 AGUS, 1 LSIL, 3 HSIL/ASC-H, and one cytological suspicion of cervical cancer. GVHDgyn was documented in 10 patients, and 6 of them had abnormal cervical cytology. Early topical estrogen therapy led to a significant reduction in vaginal dryness (p < 0.05), dyspareunia (p < 0.05), and less frequent cGVHDgyn (p < 0.05). GVHDgyn develops in about 30% of long-term allo-HCT survivors. Topical estrogens and hormonal replacement therapy alleviate symptoms and prevent the occurrence of severe consequences of menopause.

The utility of cognitive changes in identifying those with acute graft vs. host disease following allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplant

Objectives: Acute graft versus host disease (aGVHD) is a common complication of allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplant (HCT) and is associated with morbidity and mortality. Identifying those at risk for developing aGVHD is crucial for early intervention. The current study assessed whether scores on a brief cognitive screening measure could identify those that develop aGVHD by 100 days post-HCT.Methods: Participants were 37 patients undergoing allogeneic HCT, assessed prior to transplant, and at 30- and 100-days post-HCT. Of those completing all evaluations, patients were divided into those who did (n = 14) and did not (n = 16) develop aGVHD by day 100 post-HCT. At 100 days post-transplant, groups did not differ on relevant demographic factors, disease, conditioning regimen, relatedness of donor, stem cell source, steroid use, total body irradiation use, human leukocyte antigens (HLA) match, or frequency of infection.Results: At 100 days post-HCT, those with aGVHD performed significantly worse on a working memory measure than those without aGvHD. The presence of aGVHD at day 100 increased significantly with every one standard deviation decrease in working memory from baseline to 30 days post-HCT (odds ratio = 3.08; 95% CI: 1.00-9.36). These findings were observed despite a small sample size and statistically controlling for multiple analyses.Conclusions: While this study is exploratory in nature, and has a small sample size, findings suggest that early detection of working memory declines could coincide with, or signal the development of, aGVHD. Potential etiologies are discussed. Implementing early cognitive screening within the first 30 days post-HCT may be useful in identifying patients at risk for aGVHD.

Vulvovaginal graft-versus-host disease: a review

Hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) is associated with well-described gynecologic sequelae, including vulvovaginal graft-versus-host disease (GVHD). Vulvovaginal GVHD is a common complication of allogeneic HCT, but has been under-reported in the literature. Guidelines have been published only recently to recommend common terminology, treatment, and surveillance. This review summarizes the presentation, management, and surveillance aspects of vulvovaginal GVHD. We recommend a standardized referral between women undergoing HCT and an experienced gynecologist capable of managing this disease and treating sexual side effects.

Female genital tract chronic graft-versus-host disease: A narrative review

Graft-versus-host disease is one of the main causes of morbidity and mortality in patients submitted to hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. This study reviewed the prevalence of lower female genital tract graft-versus-host disease following hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. A systematic search of the literature for articles published between 1982 and 2015 was performed. A growing number of young women suffering from malignant and benign hematological diseases are receiving allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation with very satisfactory results in relation to the disease itself. However, these patients face gynecological problems due to graft-versus-host disease. Correct diagnosis and early management are needed to avoid irreversible complications.

EBMT-NIH-CIBMTR Task Force position statement on standardized terminology & guidance for graft-versus-host disease assessment

Several international recommendations address the assessment of graft-versus-host disease (GvHD) after hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT). This position statement by GvHD experts from the European Society for Blood and Marrow Transplantation (EBMT), the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the Center for International Blood and Marrow Transplant Research (CIBMTR) reviews the existing guidelines for both acute and chronic GvHD, addresses potential confusions that arise in daily practice and proposes consensus definitions for many key terms. We provide a historical perspective on the currently available guidelines and recommend the Mount Sinai Acute GvHD International Consortium (MAGIC) criteria for acute GvHD and the NIH 2014 criteria for chronic GvHD as the most comprehensive and detailed criteria available. This statement also offers practical guidance for the implementation of these recommendations and a set of consensus definitions for commonly used GvHD terms in order to facilitate future clinical and translational research. To assist the dissemination of these recommendations, a web-application based on this position statement is available (https://www.uzleuven.be/egvhd). We believe that adherence to a common set of GvHD assessment criteria is vitally important to improve the quality of data, compare results of retrospective studies and prospective clinical trials, and make therapeutic recommendations based on quality evidence.

Late endocrine effects of childhood cancer

The cure rate for paediatric malignancies is increasing, and most patients who have cancer during childhood survive and enter adulthood. Surveillance for late endocrine effects after childhood cancer is required to ensure early diagnosis and treatment and to optimize physical, cognitive and psychosocial health. The degree of risk of endocrine deficiency is related to the child's sex and their age at the time the tumour is diagnosed, as well as to tumour location and characteristics and the therapies used (surgery, chemotherapy or radiation therapy). Potential endocrine problems can include growth hormone deficiency, hypothyroidism (primary or central), adrenocorticotropin deficiency, hyperprolactinaemia, precocious puberty, hypogonadism (primary or central), altered fertility and/or sexual function, low BMD, the metabolic syndrome and hypothalamic obesity. Optimal endocrine care for survivors of childhood cancer should be delivered in a multidisciplinary setting, providing continuity from acute cancer treatment to long-term follow-up of late endocrine effects throughout the lifespan. Endocrine therapies are important to improve long-term quality of life for survivors of childhood cancer.

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

Hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) is an important curative treatment for children with high-risk hematologic malignancies, solid tumors, and, increasingly, nonmalignant diseases. Given improvements in care, there are a growing number of long-term survivors of pediatric HCT. Compared with childhood cancer survivors who did not undergo transplantation, HCT survivors have a substantially increased burden of serious chronic conditions and impairments involving virtually every organ system and overall quality of life. This likely reflects the joint contributions of pretransplantation treatment exposures and organ dysfunction, the transplantation conditioning regimen, and any post-transplantation graft-versus-host disease (GVHD). In response, the Children's Oncology Group (COG) has created long-term follow-up guidelines (www.survivorshipguidelines.org) for survivors of childhood, adolescent, and young adult cancer, including those who were treated with HCT. Guideline task forces, consisting of HCT specialists, other pediatric oncologists, radiation oncologists, organ-specific subspecialists, nurses, social workers, other health care professionals, and patient advocates systematically reviewed the literature with regards to late effects after childhood cancer and HCT since 2002, with the most recent review completed in 2013. For the most recent review cycle, over 800 articles from the medical literature relevant to childhood cancer and HCT survivorship were reviewed, including 586 original research articles. Provided herein is an organ system-based overview that emphasizes the most relevant COG recommendations (with accompanying evidence grade) for the long-term follow-up care of childhood HCT survivors (regardless of current age) based on a rigorous review of the available evidence. These recommendations cover both autologous and allogeneic HCT survivors, those who underwent transplantation for nonmalignant diseases, and those with a history of chronic GVHD.

Sexual function 1-year after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation

Treatment with allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) is associated with short and long-term toxicities that can result in alterations in sexual functioning. The aims of this prospective evaluation were to determine: (1) associations between HSCT and increased sexual dysfunction 1 year after treatment; and (2) associations between sexual dysfunction, body image, anxiety and depression. This controlled prospective cohort study was conducted from October 2010 to November 2013. Patients completed assessments 2-3 weeks before HSCT (N=124) and 1 year after treatment (N=63). Assessment included descriptive data, Sexual Functioning Questionnaire, Body Image Scale and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale. The results showed a significant decline in overall sexual function in both men and women (P=<0.001, P=0.010, respectively), although men generally scored higher than women. Forty-seven percent of men and 60% of women reported at least one physical sexual problem 1 year after HSCT. Patients with chronic GVHD trended toward reporting lower levels of sexual function. Finally, women with chronic GVHD scored lower than those without chronic GVHD on the sexual function problem subscale (P=0.008). Sexual dysfunction remains a major problem for men and women 1 year after HSCT and requires routine evaluation and treatment after HSCT.

Sexual health in hematopoietic stem cell transplant recipients

Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) plays a central role in patients with malignant and, increasingly, nonmalignant conditions. As the number of transplants increases and the survival rate improves, long-term complications are important to recognize and treat to maintain quality of life. Sexual dysfunction is a commonly described but relatively often underestimated complication after HSCT. Conditioning regimens, generalized or genital graft-versus-host disease, medications, and cardiovascular complications as well as psychosocial problems are known to contribute significantly to physical and psychological sexual dysfunction. Moreover, it is often a difficult topic for patients, their significant others, and health care providers to discuss. Early recognition and management of sexual dysfunction after HSCT can lead to improved quality of life and outcomes for patients and their partners. This review focuses on the risk factors for and treatment of sexual dysfunction after transplantation and provides guidance concerning how to approach and manage a patient with sexual dysfunction after HSCT.

National Institutes of Health Consensus Development Project on Criteria for Clinical Trials in Chronic Graft-versus-Host Disease: V. The 2014 Ancillary Therapy and Supportive Care Working Group Report

The 2006 National Institutes of Health (NIH) Consensus paper presented recommendations by the Ancillary Therapy and Supportive Care Working Group to support clinical research trials in chronic graft-versus-host disease (GVHD). Topics covered in that inaugural effort included the prevention and management of infections and common complications of chronic GVHD, as well as recommendations for patient education and appropriate follow-up. Given the new literature that has emerged during the past 8 years, we made further organ-specific refinements to these guidelines. Minimum frequencies are suggested for monitoring key parameters relevant to chronic GVHD during systemic immunosuppressive therapy and, thereafter, referral to existing late effects consensus guidelines is advised. Using the framework of the prior consensus, the 2014 NIH recommendations are organized by organ or other relevant systems and graded according to the strength and quality of supporting evidence.

National Institutes of Health Consensus Development Project on Criteria for Clinical Trials in Chronic Graft-versus-Host Disease: I. The 2014 Diagnosis and Staging Working Group report

The 2005 National Institutes of Health (NIH) Consensus Conference proposed new criteria for diagnosing and scoring the severity of chronic graft-versus-host disease (GVHD). The 2014 NIH consensus maintains the framework of the prior consensus with further refinement based on new evidence. Revisions have been made to address areas of controversy or confusion, such as the overlap chronic GVHD subcategory and the distinction between active disease and past tissue damage. Diagnostic criteria for involvement of mouth, eyes, genitalia, and lungs have been revised. Categories of chronic GVHD should be defined in ways that indicate prognosis, guide treatment, and define eligibility for clinical trials. Revisions have been made to focus attention on the causes of organ-specific abnormalities. Attribution of organ-specific abnormalities to chronic GVHD has been addressed. This paradigm shift provides greater specificity and more accurately measures the global burden of disease attributed to GVHD, and it will facilitate biomarker association studies.

National Institutes of Health Consensus Development Project on Criteria for Clinical Trials in Chronic Graft-versus-Host Disease: I. The 2014 Diagnosis and Staging Working Group report

The 2005 National Institutes of Health (NIH) Consensus Conference proposed new criteria for diagnosing and scoring the severity of chronic graft-versus-host disease (GVHD). The 2014 NIH consensus maintains the framework of the prior consensus with further refinement based on new evidence. Revisions have been made to address areas of controversy or confusion, such as the overlap chronic GVHD subcategory and the distinction between active disease and past tissue damage. Diagnostic criteria for involvement of mouth, eyes, genitalia, and lungs have been revised. Categories of chronic GVHD should be defined in ways that indicate prognosis, guide treatment, and define eligibility for clinical trials. Revisions have been made to focus attention on the causes of organ-specific abnormalities. Attribution of organ-specific abnormalities to chronic GVHD has been addressed. This paradigm shift provides greater specificity and more accurately measures the global burden of disease attributed to GVHD, and it will facilitate biomarker association studies.

Sexual dysfunction and infertility as late effects of cancer treatment

Sexual dysfunction is a common consequence of cancer treatment, affecting at least half of men and women treated for pelvic malignancies and over a quarter of people with other types of cancer. Problems are usually linked to damage to nerves, blood vessels, and hormones that underlie normal sexual function. Sexual dysfunction also may be associated with depression, anxiety, relationship conflict, and loss of self-esteem. Innovations in cancer treatment such as robotic surgery or more targeted radiation therapy have not had the anticipated result of reducing sexual dysfunction. Some new and effective cancer treatments, including aromatase inhibitors for breast cancer or chemoradiation for anal cancer also have very severe sexual morbidity. Cancer-related infertility is an issue for younger patients, who comprise a much smaller percentage of total cancer survivors. However, the long-term emotional impact of being unable to have a child after cancer can be extremely distressing. Advances in knowledge about how cancer treatments may damage fertility, as well as newer techniques to preserve fertility, offer hope to patients who have not completed their childbearing at cancer diagnosis. Unfortunately, surveys in industrialised nations confirm that many cancer patients are still not informed about potential changes to their sexual function or fertility, and all modalities of fertility preservation remain underutilised. After cancer treatment, many patients continue to have unmet needs for information about restoring sexual function or becoming a parent. Although more research is needed on optimal clinical practice, current studies suggest a multidisciplinary approach, including both medical and psychosocial treatment options.

Genital chronic graft-versus-host disease in females: a cross-sectional study

Using the National Institutes of Health (NIH) consensus criteria for chronic graft-versus-host disease (cGVHD), we assessed the prevalence, symptoms, and clinical signs of female genital cGVHD in a cross-sectional population-based study. Forty-two women were evaluated at a median of 80 months (range, 13 to 148 months) after undergoing hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). Medical history, ongoing medications, and genital signs and symptoms were recorded. Gynecologic examination for the diagnosis and clinical scoring of genital cGVHD was combined with clinical scoring of extragenital cGVHD for the estimation of each patient's global cGVHD score. Biopsy specimens from the genital mucosa were obtained from 38 patients. Genital cGVHD was diagnosed in 22 of 42 patients (52%). Its presence was associated with systemic corticoid steroid treatment of extragenital cGVHD (P = .001), older age (P = .07), and HSCT from a sibling donor (P = .002). Five patients had isolated genital cGVHD. Dryness, pain, smarting pain (P < .05 for all), and dyspareunia (P = .001) were observed more frequently in the women with genital cGVHD. Twelve patients had advanced genital cGVHD (clinical score 3), which was the main factor explaining the high rate (15 of 42) of severe global cGVHD. The rate of genital cGVHD was similar (P = .37) in patients with a follow-up of ≥80 months (10 of 22) and those with a follow-up of <80 months (12 of 20). We found no convincing relationship between clinical diagnosis and histopathological assessment of mucosal biopsy specimens. In our group of women with a long follow-up after HSCT, genital cGVHD was common and in many cases incorrectly diagnosed. Genital cGVHD causes genital symptoms and affects sexual life, and may present without any other cGVHD, warranting early and continuous gynecologic surveillance in all women after HSCT.

Efficacy trial of an Internet-based intervention for cancer-related female sexual dysfunction

The recent NCCN Guidelines for Survivorship recommend systematic evaluation and multidisciplinary treatment of cancer-related sexual dysfunctions. However, most oncology professionals fail to routinely assess sexual problems and lack expertise to treat them. An Internet-based intervention was designed to educate female patients and their partners about cancer-related sexual problems, describe medical treatment options and how to find expert care, and provide self-help strategies. A randomized trial assessed efficacy of the intervention when used as self-help versus the same Web access and 3 supplemental counseling sessions. Survivors of localized breast or gynecologic cancers completed online questionnaires at baseline, posttreatment, and 3- and 6-month follow-up, including the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), the Menopausal Sexual Interest Questionnaire (MSIQ), the Brief Symptom Inventory-18 (BSI-18) to assess emotional distress, and the Quality of Life in Adult Cancer Survivors (QLACS) scale. Program evaluation ratings were completed posttreatment. Fifty-eight women completed baseline questionnaires (mean age, 53 ± 9 years). Drop-out rates were 22% during treatment and 34% at 6-month follow-up. Linear mixed models for each outcome across time showed improvement in total scores on the FSFI, MSIQ, and QLACS (P<.001) and BSI-18 (P=.001). The counseled group improved significantly more on sexuality measures, but changes in emotional distress and quality of life did not differ between groups. Program content and ease of use were rated positively. Research is needed on how best to integrate this intervention into routine clinical practice, and particularly how to improve uptake and adherence.

Genital chronic GVHD in men after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation: a single-center cross-sectional analysis of 155 patients

We assessed the prevalence and clinical features of genital skin changes in men after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) and evaluated the correlation between genital chronic graft-versus-host disease (cGVHD) and other manifestations of cGVHD as well as sexual issues. In a cross-sectional cohort study, 155 male recipients alive 1 year or more after HSCT were assessed during their annual follow-up evaluation. Correlation between genital skin changes and other cGVHD manifestations was evaluated, and post-transplantation sexual contentment and sexual functioning were assessed by 2 self-assessment questionnaires, including the 5-item version of the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-5) and the modified Brief Sexual Symptom Checklist (mBSSC). Median time between HSCT and genital examination was 5.9 years (range, 1 to 30.3 years). Thirty-one of 155 patients (20%) presented with genital skin changes. Twenty-one of those (13%) presented clinically inflammatory genital skin changes considered as genital cGVHD: 12 had inflammatory (noninfectious) balanoposthitis, 6 had lichen sclerosis-like lesions, 5 had phimosis, and 2 patients had more than 1 feature. Patients with inflammatory genital skin changes had a significantly higher coincidence of oral (P < .0001), ocular (P < .002), and/or cutaneous cGVHD (P < .026) when compared with patients without genital lesions. The rate of IIEF-5 questionnaire response was 59% (91 of 155). Among them, 67% reported erectile dysfunction. Erectile dysfunction was significantly more frequent in patients with genital cGVHD (P = .0075). Seventy-five of 155 patients (48%) answered the mBSSC questionnaire. Only 40% of them reported sexual contentment. Genital skin changes in male recipients after allogeneic HSCT are frequent and seem to be an under-reported relevant late effect. Inflammatory genital skin changes can be considered as a form of genital cGVHD often associated with manifestations of extragenital mucocutaneous cGVHD.