Pure red-cell aplasia following major and bi-directional ABO-incompatible allogeneic stem-cell transplantation: recovery of donor-derived erythropoiesis after long-term treatment using different therapeutic strategies

Successful treatment pure red cell aplasia after ABO major mismatched allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation with avatrombopag and low dose rituximab

BACKGROUND

Pure red cell aplasia (PRCA) following allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT) with ABO major incompatibility is characterized by transfusion dependent anemia. No standard treatment existed for PRCA following allo-HSCT yet.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

We conducted a retrospective study, and reported our experience with the use of avatrombopag and lower dose rituximab to treat five patients with PRCA subsequent to major ABO-incompatible allo-HSCT.

RESULTS

Five cases of PRCA were identified from 72 patients who underwent allo-HSCT with major or bidirectional ABO mismatch. Cumulative incidence at Day +60 was 6.9% (5/72) at our center. All donor and recipient blood groups were A+  and O+ , respectively. In the first three cases we reported, patients received erythropoietin, plasma exchange, and donor lymphocyte infusion, but none of them had any effect. After 4 weeks of treatment with low dose rituximab (100 mg/week) combined with avatrombopag (40 mg/day), favorable outcomes were obtained. According to the aforementioned experience, Cases 4 and 5 were administered low-dose rituximab and avatrombopag in 3 months after transplantation, and erythroid response was observed on 3 weeks after treatment. Our patients tolerated low-dose rituximab and avatrombopag well and experienced rapid efficacy, with a median duration of 3 weeks. Furthermore, no severe infection or thrombocytosis necessitated a dose adjustment.

CONCLUSION

Low-dose rituximab and avatrombopag may be an effective treatment for patients with PRCA after major ABO-incompatible allo-HSCT. The patients should be treated at least 90 days post transplantation if conventional erythropoietin therapy fails.

Association of ABO mismatch with the outcomes of allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation for acute leukemia

Allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (allo-HCT) is a potentially curative treatment for acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). While many factors influence the outcomes of allo-HCT, the independent impact of donor-recipient ABO mismatching remains unclear. Using the Center for International Blood and Marrow Transplant Research (CIBMTR) database, we identified patients aged ≥18 years with AML or ALL who underwent allo-HCT between 2008 and 2018. Our objectives were to analyze the outcomes of allo-HCT based on the donor-recipient ABO status (match, minor mismatch, major mismatch, bidirectional mismatch). Among 4946 eligible patients, 2741 patients (55.4%) were ABO matched, 1030 patients (20.8%) had a minor ABO mismatch, 899 patients (18.1%) had a major ABO mismatch, and 276 patients (5.6%) had a bidirectional ABO mismatch. In multivariable analyses, compared to ABO matched allo-HCT, the presence of a major ABO mismatch was associated with worse overall survival (HR 1.16, 95% CI 1.05-1.29; p = 0.005), inferior platelet engraftment (HR 0.83, 95% CI 0.77-0.90; p < 0.001), and higher primary graft failure (HR 1.60, 95% CI 1.12-2.30, p = 0.01). Relapse, acute graft versus host disease (GVHD) grades III-IV and chronic GVHD were not significantly associated with ABO status. While donor age was not significantly associated with outcomes, older recipient age was associated with worse survival and non-relapse mortality. Our study demonstrates that donor-recipient ABO status is independently associated with survival and other post-transplantation outcomes in acute leukemia. This underscores the importance of considering the ABO status in donor selection algorithms and its impact in acute leukemia.

[Graft failure, poor graft function erythroblastopenia: Actualization of definitions, diagnosis and treatment: Guidelines from the SFGM-TC]

In this article, we discuss again the definition, the risk factor and guideline to treat the graft failure, the poor graft function and erythrobalstopenia. Graft failure is a severe but rare complication after hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT). Despite disparity in the literature, we defined this complication and discussed the factor risks and recommendation for treatment based on new studies. Poor graft function is also a more frequent complication after HCT. New studies will soon be available to prove or not the current recommendation suggested in this article based on therapeutics medicine or cellular therapy. Erythroblastopenia, is a rarer complication post HCT. Despite anticipation for a better choice of compatibility donor/recipient, some patients still suffer from this complication.

Pure red cell aplasia after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation - experimental therapeutic approaches

Not relevant.

Prevalence of Pure Red Cell Aplasia Following Major ABO-Incompatible Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation

Background

Pure red cell aplasia (PRCA) is one of the important complications in major ABO-incompatible allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). The established pathogenic factor of PRCA is the persistence of high anti-donor isohemagglutinins. As previously verified, the conditioning regimen and donor type were the factors associated with the development of PRCA in the small-sized studies. Currently, the prevalence, risk factors, and prognosis of PRCA are still worth studying to provide evidence.

Methods

We conducted a prospective nested case-control study to determine the prevalence, donor-related factors, and the outcomes of PRCA following major ABO-incompatible transplantation. A total of 469 patients who underwent ABO-incompatible grafts were observed.

Results

None of the patients were diagnosed with PRCA with minor or bidirectional ABO-incompatible HSCT. Thirteen of the187 patients (7%; 95% confidence interval [CI], 3.9%–11.9%) developed PRCA following major ABO-incompatible HSCT. Eleven of the 13 patients with PRCA recovered entirely. Donor type was an independent factor associated with post-HSCT PRCA (odds ratio [OR]=0.030; 95% CI, 0.003–0.321; P=0.004). The cumulative incidence rates of post-HSCT PRCA in the context of major ABO-incompatible HSCT were 0.8%, 13.1%, and 27.2% for the haploidentical donor (HID), unrelated donor, and matched related donor, respectively. No significant influence of PRCA on transplantation outcomes was observed.

In conclusion, post-HSCT PRCA is a rare and less threatening complication in major ABO-incompatible HSCT. The majority of patients with PRCA could recover. Additionally, HIDs for recipients may have a low risk of post-HSCT PRCA. This trial was registered at www.chictr.org.cn (#ChiCTR2000041412).

Selective ABO immunoadsorption in hematopoietic stem cell transplantation with major ABO incompatibility

OBJECTIVE

ABO mismatch between donor and recipient occurs in 40% of allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantations (HCT). Different strategies have been described to reduce isohemagglutinins (IHA) before HCT. We describe the effect of selective ABO immunoadsorption (ABO IA) on erythrocyte transfusion rate and the development of post-transplant pure red cell aplasia (ptPRCA).

METHODS

63 patients with major ABO incompatibility were retrospectively analyzed. Nine patients with major ABO incompatibility and high-IHA titer were treated by ABO IA before HCT. We analyzed the need for transfusion and the occurrence of ptPRCA. We compared the outcome with patients treated by other methods to reduce IHA.

RESULTS

In all nine patients treated by ABO IA, IHA decreased in a median four times. PtPRCA occurred in one patient. The median number of transfusions was 8 (range: 0-36) between d0 and d100. In 25 patients with high-IHA titer without treatment or treated by other methods to reduce IHA, the need for transfusions was comparable. No difference in the incidence of ptPRCA was observed.

CONCLUSIONS

Selective ABO IA is a feasible, safe, and effective method to reduce IHA before HCT in major ABO incompatibility. No effect on transfusion rate or ptPRCA compared to other strategies could be observed.

Pure red cell aplasia after major or bidirectional ABO incompatible hematopoietic stem cell transplantation: to treat or not to treat, that is the question

Pure red cell aplasia (PRCA) is a complication related to major or bidirectional ABO mismatched hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. This disorder is characterized by anemia, reticulocytopenia, and the absence or virtual absence of erythroid progenitors, other causes such as infections, hemolysis, disease relapse, or drug toxicity having been excluded. Patients with PRCA may become RBC transfusion dependent for long periods, suffering an important long-term iron overload, alloimmunization, and transfusion reactions. The persistence of recipient isoagglutinins against donor ABO antigens produced by host residual plasmatic cells has been considered as the immunological cause of the prolonged erythroid aplasia. PRCA behaves in many cases as a self-limited condition and resolution may occur spontaneously within weeks, months, and even years. Many different therapeutic approaches have been reported for posttransplant PRCA as plasmapheresis, high doses of erythropoietin, donor lymphocyte infusions, anti-thymocyte globulin, Rituximab and steroids, among others. However, to date there is no standard of care and the question if patients with PRCA should be treated and at which point remains. The objective of this article is to review the natural evolution of PRCA, and the treatments that have been used over time focusing on their suitability and efficacy.

Antigen-Specific Immunoadsorption With the Glycosorb® ABO Immunoadsorption System as a Novel Treatment Modality in Pure Red Cell Aplasia Following Major and Bidirectional ABO-Incompatible Allogeneic Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation

Pure red cell aplasia (PRCA) after ABO-incompatible allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) is caused by persisting host-derived isohemagglutinins directed against donor red blood cell (RBC) antigens. ABO antigen-specific immunoadsorption (ABO-IA) with Glycosorb®, commonly used for desensitization therapy in ABO-incompatible living donor renal transplantation, specifically eliminates circulating isohemagglutinins and might represent a novel treatment option for post-HSCT PRCA. In this prospective observational (n = 3) and retrospective (n = 3) analysis of six adult HSCT-recipients with PRCA, ABO-IA was initiated at 159 (range: 104–186) days following HSCT. The median treatment frequency was 4.5 (range: 3.9–5.5) sessions/week. ABO-IA-treatment led to a continuous decrease in isohemagglutinin titers. Reticulocytes increased to ≥30 G/L after 17.5 (range: 4–37) immunoadsorption sessions over 28.5 (range: 6–49) days and continued to rise after that. By the end of the 3-month follow-up period after discontinuation of ABO-IA, all patients showed a sustained remission of PRCA and were independent of erythropoietin-stimulating agents and transfusions. No case of infection or graft-versus-host disease was observed. After a median follow-up of 22.03 (range: 6.08–149.00) months after ABO-IA-treatment, all patients were alive and showed a stable RBC engraftment of the donor blood group. Our data provide the first evidence for ABO-IA as an effective treatment for post-HSCT PRCA.

Daratumumab for pure red cell aplasia post ABO incompatible allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplant for aplastic anemia

Pure red cell aplasia is a known complication after ABO incompatible stem cell transplant. Due to rarity of disease, no established treatment guidelines are available for PRCA. Daratumumab is a monoclonal antibody against CD38 expressed by plasma cells. In this report we present our experience of successfully managing a patient of post-transplant PRCA with daratumumab. Our patient had failed multiple lines of therapy prior to receiving daratumumab. Response was seen after the 3rd weekly dose of daratumumab.

Non-myeloablative matched sibling stem cell transplantation with the optional reinforced stem cell infusion for patients with hemoglobinopathies

BACKGROUND

The NIH protocol for non-myeloablative (NMA) conditioning allogeneic stem cell transplantation (alloSCT) with alemtuzumab and low-dose total body irradiation corrected the abnormal sickle cell disease (SCD) phenotype without the risk of graft-versus-host disease. However, alloSCT using NMA conditioning had been rarely applied to β-thalassemia major (β-TM) patients.

METHODS

To avoid prolonged immunosuppression, we developed a two-stage strategy. Mixed donor chimerism was initially achieved using the protocol developed by the NIH protocol. Thereafter, we facilitated donor chimerism using the optional reinforced stem cell (SC) infusion in cases requiring protracted immunosuppression or experiencing impending graft failure.

RESULTS

In this study, β-TM (n = 9) and SCD (n = 4) patients were equally effectively treated with eradicating the abnormal hemoglobin phenotype. Five patients, including four β-TM, achieved stable mixed chimerism without receiving optional reinforced SC infusion. All patients that received optional reinforced infusion achieved complete (n = 4) or mixed chimerism (n = 1). The overall survival rate and event-free survival at 4 years were 91.7% (95% CI; 53.9-98.8) in both groups, with a thalassemia-free survival rate in β-TM patients of 87.5% (95% CI; 38.7-98.1).

CONCLUSION

This study is the first to report successful NMA conditioning alloSCT to achieve stable mixed chimerism correcting the abnormal hemoglobin phenotype in adult β-TM patients.

Guidelines on the Use of Therapeutic Apheresis in Clinical Practice - Evidence-Based Approach from the Writing Committee of the American Society for Apheresis: The Eighth Special Issue

The American Society for Apheresis (ASFA) Journal of Clinical Apheresis (JCA) Special Issue Writing Committee is charged with reviewing, updating and categorizing indications for the evidence-based use of therapeutic apheresis (TA) in human disease. Since the 2007 JCA Special Issue (Fourth Edition), the committee has incorporated systematic review and evidence-based approaches in the grading and categorization of apheresis indications. This Eighth Edition of the JCA Special Issue continues to maintain this methodology and rigor in order to make recommendations on the use of apheresis in a wide variety of diseases/conditions. The JCA Eighth Edition, like its predecessor, continues to apply the category and grading system definitions in fact sheets. The general layout and concept of a fact sheet that was introduced in the Fourth Edition, has largely been maintained in this edition. Each fact sheet succinctly summarizes the evidence for the use of TA in a specific disease entity or medical condition. The Eighth Edition comprises 84 fact sheets for relevant diseases and medical conditions, with 157 graded and categorized indications and/or TA modalities. The Eighth Edition of the JCA Special Issue seeks to continue to serve as a key resource that guides the utilization of TA in the treatment of human disease.

Donor-type fresh frozen plasma is effective in preventing hemolytic reaction in major ABO incompatible allogeneic stem cell transplant

BACKGROUND

Hemolysis at the time of graft infusion is one of the immediate complications in major ABO-incompatible allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplants (HSCTs). We conducted a retrospective analysis to evaluate the efficacy of donor-type fresh frozen plasma (FFP) in reducing isohemagglutinin titer and preventing hemolysis, as well as its effect on delayed red cell engraftment.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This is a single-center study on a series of 380 allogeneic HSCT between 2005 and 2015; of which 99 were either major (n = 74) or bidirectional (n = 25) ABO mismatched. Pre-transplant infusion of FFP, post-transplant complications and transfusion requirements were determined by retrospective review of individual medical records. Laboratory results were also reviewed for evidence of hemolysis and pure red cell aplasia (PRCA).

RESULTS

Clinical manifestation of hemolysis attributable to ABO mismatch was present in one recipient of major ABO-incompatible peripheral blood stem cell (PBSC) with a titer of 64. Another recipient of major ABO-incompatible PBSC with a titer of 64 showed biochemical evidence of hemolysis. Both patients recovered with supportive treatment. Hemolysis did not occur in any patients with titer of 32 or less at the time of stem cell infusion. We were unable to demonstrate the influence of any variables on the incidence of PRCA.

CONCLUSION

Our experience demonstrated that donor-type FFP is safe and effective in preventing acute hemolysis in major ABO-mismatched HSCT. We have also established the titer of 64 as the threshold that may cause hemolysis and therefore efforts should be made to reduce titer to below this level.

Recovery of Pure Red Cell Aplasia Following Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation Associated with Interleukin (IL)-6 Elevation Caused by Odontogenic Infection

We herein report a case of long-lasting pure red cell aplasia (PRCA) after major ABO-incompatible allogeneic stem cell transplantation (SCT) for acute lymphoblastic leukemia. The patient needed red blood cell (RBC) transfusion every week after SCT. On day 236, he was diagnosed with odontogenic infection, and the serum levels of Interleukin (IL)-6 were elevated to 12.1 pg/mL. After that, the numbers of reticulocyte rapidly began to increase, and RBC support was not needed from day 251. No standard care for PRCA following SCT has been established. The IL-6 elevation caused by the odontogenic infection therefore appears to have been affected by the improvement in PRCA.

Successful treatment of pure red cell aplasia with high-dose dexamethasone after ABO-incompatible allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation

The literature reports an incidence of Pure Red Cell Aplasia (PRCA) ranging from 6-30% of all cases of ABO-incompatible HSCT. Although most patients resolve spontaneously after withdrawal immunosuppression, some of them require more aggressive treatment to manage this condition.

Guidelines on the Use of Therapeutic Apheresis in Clinical Practice-Evidence-Based Approach from the Writing Committee of the American Society for Apheresis: The Seventh Special Issue

The American Society for Apheresis (ASFA) Journal of Clinical Apheresis (JCA) Special Issue Writing Committee is charged with reviewing, updating, and categorizing indications for the evidence-based use of therapeutic apheresis in human disease. Since the 2007 JCA Special Issue (Fourth Edition), the Committee has incorporated systematic review and evidence-based approaches in the grading and categorization of apheresis indications. This Seventh Edition of the JCA Special Issue continues to maintain this methodology and rigor to make recommendations on the use of apheresis in a wide variety of diseases/conditions. The JCA Seventh Edition, like its predecessor, has consistently applied the category and grading system definitions in the fact sheets. The general layout and concept of a fact sheet that was used since the fourth edition has largely been maintained in this edition. Each fact sheet succinctly summarizes the evidence for the use of therapeutic apheresis in a specific disease entity. The Seventh Edition discusses 87 fact sheets (14 new fact sheets since the Sixth Edition) for therapeutic apheresis diseases and medical conditions, with 179 indications, which are separately graded and categorized within the listed fact sheets. Several diseases that are Category IV which have been described in detail in previous editions and do not have significant new evidence since the last publication are summarized in a separate table. The Seventh Edition of the JCA Special Issue serves as a key resource that guides the utilization of therapeutic apheresis in the treatment of human disease. J. Clin. Apheresis 31:149-162, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

ABO blood group antigen mismatch has an impact on outcome after allogeneic peripheral blood stem cell transplantation

ABO blood group antigen incompatibility (ABO mismatch) is not an obstacle to allogeneic stem cell transplantation (allo-SCT). However, the impact on clinical outcome after allo-SCT remains controversial. We analyzed 512 patients after allogeneic peripheral blood SCT (allo-PBSCT) for an association of ABO mismatch with transfusion requirements, myeloid and platelet engraftment, the incidence of GvHD, relapse, transplant-related mortality (TRM), and overall survival (OS). A total of 260 patients underwent ABO-mismatched transplantation and the control group consisted of 252 patients with ABO-matched allo-PBSCT. We found a significant association between major-0 ABO mismatch (group 0 recipient/group A, B, or AB donor) and increased red blood cell (RBC) and platelet transfusion requirements (both P<.001) as well as delayed platelet engraftment (P<.001). Minor-A (group A recipient/group 0 donor) and minor-AB (group AB recipient/group 0, A, or B donor) ABO mismatch was significantly associated with an increased TRM after allo-PBSCT (P=.001 and P=.02). In multivariate analysis performed using Cox regression, minor ABO mismatch appeared as independent risk factor for TRM after allo-PBSCT. No association was found for ABO mismatch with the incidence of GvHD, relapse, and OS. Our results suggest that ABO blood group mismatch has a significant impact on the outcome and that minor-A and minor-AB ABO mismatch represents a risk factor for increased TRM after allo-PBSCT.

Pure Red Cell Aplasia in Major ABO-Mismatched Allogeneic Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation Is Associated with Severe Pancytopenia

In major ABO-mismatched allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) persistence of antidonor isohemagglutinins leads to pure red cell aplasia (PRCA). To investigate severe pancytopenia noted in a previous study of PRCA, we analyzed all major ABO-mismatched HSCT between January 2003 and December 2012. Of 83 PRCA patients, 13 (16%) had severe pancytopenia. Severe pancytopenia was defined as an absolute neutrophil count (ANC) < 1.5 K/μL or requiring granulocyte colony-stimulating factor, platelets < 50 K/μL or transfusion dependent, and PRCA with RBC transfusion dependence at post-transplant day 90. In 6 patients (46%) severe pancytopenia resolved after PRCA resolution. Two patients (15%) received a second transplant because of persistent pancytopenia/secondary graft failure, 1 (8%) died from secondary graft failure despite a stem cell boost, 1 (8%) did not recover his platelet counts despite RBC/ANC recovery, and 3 patients (23%) died from disease relapse. We found that severe pancytopenia is frequently associated with PRCA in 16% of major ABO-incompatible HSCT with a higher incidence in males and pancytopenia resolved with resolution of PRCA in 46% of patients.

ABO-Mismatched Allogeneic Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation

Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) is a curative option for a variety of malignant and non-malignant hematological and congenital diseases. Due to the fact that the human leukocyte antigen system is inherited independently of the blood group system, approximately 40-50% of all HSCTs are performed across the ABO blood group barrier. The expected immune-hematological consequences after transplantation of an ABO-mismatched stem cell graft are immediate and delayed hemolytic complications due to presence of isohemagglutinins or passenger lymphocyte syndrome. The risks of these complications can partially be prevented by graft manipulation and appropriate transfusion support. Dependent on the kind of ABO mismatch, different effects on engraftment have been observed, e.g. delayed red blood cell recovery and pure red cell aplasia. Data on incidence of acute graft-versus-host disease (GVHD), non-relapse mortality, relapse, and overall survival are inconsistent as most studies include limited patient numbers, various graft sources, and different conditioning and GVHD prophylaxis regimens. This makes it difficult to detect a consistent effect of ABO-mismatched transplantation in the literature. However, knowledge of expectable complications and close monitoring of patients helps to detect problems early and to treat patients efficiently, thus reducing the number of fatal or life-threatening events caused by ABO-mismatched HSCT.

ABO blood group incompatibility as an adverse risk factor for outcomes in patients with myelodysplastic syndromes and acute myeloid leukemia undergoing HLA-matched peripheral blood hematopoietic cell transplantation after reduced-intensity conditioning

BACKGROUND

ABO incompatibility is not a contraindication to hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT), but it has been associated with additional risks including delayed engraftment, pure red cell aplasia (PRCA), and higher transfusion needs. Data on these events and on patient survival after reduced-intensity conditioning (RIC) HCT are limited.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

A total of 127 consecutive patients, 86 with acute myeloid leukemia and 41 with myelodysplastic syndromes, who underwent HLA-matched peripheral blood RIC allogenic HCT between 2005 and 2014 were retrospectively analyzed.

RESULTS

Eighty ABO-compatible, 26 major/bidirectional, and 21 minor-ABO-mismatch HCT were identified. Compared to the ABO-compatible group, major/bidirectional mismatches had increased red blood cell (RBC) transfusion requirement during the first 100 days (p = 0.009), delayed RBC and PLT engraftment (p = 0.0011 and p = 0.005, respectively), and higher incidence of grade II to IV acute graft-versus-host disease (aGVHD; p = 0.037). In multivariable analysis, major/bidirectional mismatches had significantly higher non-relapse mortality (NRM) and inferior disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS) compared with ABO-compatible patients (p = 0.01, p = 0.04, and p = 0.035, respectively). Minor ABO mismatch had no impact on survival (p = 0.99). Four (15%) of 26 major/bidirectional mismatches developed PRCA. There was a significant association between fludarabine plus busulfan conditioning and PRCA (p = 0.0046).

CONCLUSION

Major/bidirectional ABO mismatch is associated with higher NRM and shortened DFS and OS in the setting of RIC HCT. Increased transfusion need, delayed RBC and platelet engraftment, PRCA, and increased severity of aGVHD are additional complications contributing to the morbidity.

Clinico-serologic co-relation in bi-directional ABO incompatible hemopoietic stem cell transplantation

BACKGROUND

The ABO blood group system is of prime significance in red cell transfusion and organ transplantation. However, ABO compatibility is not critical in allogenic hemopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) and approximately 40-50% of hemopoietic stem cell transplants are ABO incompatible. This incompatibility may be major, minor or bi-directional. Though there are descriptions of transfusion practice and protocols in ABO incompatible HSCT, there are considerable variations and transfusion support in these patients can be very challenging.

AIMS

The immunohematologic observations in two cases of bi-directional ABO incompatible HSCT have been described, and clinico-serologic correlation has been attempted.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In both cases, peripheral blood stem cell harvests were obtained using the Cobe spectra cell separator. Immunohematologic assessments in the donor and recipient were done as a part of pre HSCT evaluation. Both the standard tube technique and column agglutination method (Ortho Biovue Micro Bead System) was used. Antibody screen was done by column agglutination method using three cell panel (Surgiscreen cells). Isoagglutinin titration was done by the master dilution method and standard validated techniques were used.

RESULTS

The pattern of laboratory findings in the two cases was different and so were the clinical outcomes. Although there was early engraftment in the first case, the second case developed pure red cell aplasia and this was well-reflected in the immunohematologic assessments.

CONCLUSION

Immunohematologic assessment correlated well with the clinical picture and could be used to predict clinical outcome and onset of complications in ABO incompatible HSCT.

Transfusion support issues in hematopoietic stem cell transplantation

BACKGROUND

Patients receiving hematopoietic stem cell transplantation require extensive transfusion support until red blood cell and platelet engraftment occurs. Rare but predictable complications may arise when the transplanted stem cells are incompatible with the native ABO type of the patient. Immediate and delayed hemolysis is often seen.

METHODS

A literature review was performed and the results from peer-reviewed papers that contained reproducible findings were integrated.

RESULTS

A strong body of clinical evidence has developed around the common complications experienced with ABO-incompatible hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. These complications are discussed and the underlying pathophysiology is explained. General treatment options and guidelines are enumerated.

CONCLUSIONS

ABO-incompatible hematopoietic stem cell transplantations are frequently performed. Immune-related hemolysis is a commonly encountered complication; therefore, health care professionals must recognize the signs of immune-mediated hemolysis and understand the various etiologies that may drive the process.

ABO mismatch is associated with increased nonrelapse mortality after allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation

We evaluated ABO associated outcomes in 1737 patients who underwent allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (allo-HCT) at Stanford University between January 1986 and July 2011. Grafts were 61% ABO matched, 18% major mismatched (MM), 17% minor MM, and 4% bidirectional MM. Median follow-up was 6 years. In multivariate analysis, overall survival (OS) was inferior in minor MM hematopoietic cell transplantations (median 2.1 versus 6.3 years; hazard ratio [HR], 1.56; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.19 to 2.05; P = .001) in comparison with ABO-matched grafts. ABO minor MM was associated with an increase in early nonrelapse mortality (NRM) (18% versus 13%; HR, 1.48; 95% CI, 1.06 to 2.06; P = .02). In an independent Center for International Blood and Marrow Transplant Research (CIBMTR) analysis of 435 lymphoma patients receiving mobilized peripheral blood grafts, impairment of OS (HR, 1.55; 95% CI, 1.07 to 2.25; P = .021) and increased NRM (HR, 1.72; 95% CI, 1.11 to 2.68; P = .03) were observed in recipients of ABO minor-MM grafts. A second independent analysis of a CIBMTR data set including 5179 patients with acute myeloid leukemia and myelodysplastic syndrome identified a nonsignificant trend toward decreased OS in recipients of ABO minor-MM grafts and also found ABO major MM to be significantly associated with decreased OS (HR, 1.19; 95% CI, 1.08 to 1.31; P < .001) and increased NRM (HR, 1.23; 95% CI, 1.08 to 1.4; P = .002). ABO minor and major MM are risk factors for worse transplantation outcomes, although the associated hazards may not be uniform across different transplantation populations. Further study is warranted to determine which patient populations are at greatest risk, and whether this risk can be modified by anti-B cell therapy or other peri-transplantation treatments.

New proposed guidelines for early identification of successful myeloid and erythroid engraftment in hematopoietic stem cell transplantation

BACKGROUND

After hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT), early detection of engraftment would be of critical value for clinicians. The aim of this study was to identify faster parameters for engraftment.

METHODS

We evaluated blood cell parameters including complete blood count (CBC), differential counts, and various reticulocyte parameters in 115 patients who received HSCT (allogeneic, n = 93; autologous, n = 22) in the purpose of identifying possible improved laboratory guidelines for engraftment prediction.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSION

Days to white blood cell (WBC) count over 100 cells/μl with more than two-fold increase from nadir after transplantation (proposed new WBC guideline) preceded absolute neutrophil count (ANC) >500 cells/μl by 1.7 days. Among erythroid parameters, the earliest marker for erythroid engraftment was high light scattering reticulocytes (HLR) >0.1 (proposed new red blood cell guideline), which preceded reticulocyte counts (RET) >1% and immature reticulocyte fraction >0.5 by 3.9 and 1.6 days, respectively. Among the clinical parameters compared, those with statistically significant influence on myeloid engraftment were donor type (P = 0.009) and conditioning intensity (P = 0.009). As for erythroid recovery, ABO incompatibility was the only significant factor. In conclusion, the new guidelines may ensure engraftment several days earlier than the conventional parameters, which may help clinicians for decision-making on rescue therapy earlier.

Oral High Dose Dexamethasone for Pure Red Cell Aplasia Following ABO-Mismatched Allogeneic Peripheral Blood Stem Cell Transplantation: A Case Report

Management of pure red cell aplasia following major ABO-mismatched hematopoietic stem cell transplantation is a therapeutic challenge. Various therapeutic modalities have been tried with variable responses, and patient remains transfusion dependent for a long time. We report here the use of pulsed oral high dose dexamethasone for pure red cell aplasia following ABO-mismatched allogeneic transplant with complete recovery.

Fatal immune hemolytic anemia following allogeneic stem cell transplantation: report of 2 cases and review of literature

Immune hemolytic anemia is a well-recognized complication after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). There are 4 possible causes for this complication. First, antibodies present in the recipient destroy donor cells. Second, donor red cell antibodies at the time of stem cell infusion are transferred to the recipient. Third, sometimes, engrafted donor lymphocytes cause active production of red cell antibodies. Fourth, another cause of hemolysis after allogeneic HSCT is autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA). It is thought to be due to antibodies produced by the donor's immune system against antigens on red cells of donor origin. Autoimmune hemolytic anemia after allogeneic HSCT is rare, it is still not well characterized, and it represents a life-threatening situation. We describe 2 patients with acute myeloid leukemia treated with intensive chemotherapy and umbilical cord blood stem cell transplantation (UCBT). One patient developed AIHA at day +182 and the other at day +212 after receiving UCBT. Patients received 5 and 7 line treatment options, respectively, including continuous corticosteroids, intravenous immunoglobulin, splenectomy, cyclophosphamide, plasma exchange, rituximab, bortezomib, and eculizumab. However, both patients died because of massive hemolysis after 85 and 106 days of intensive treatment, respectively. These cases reflect the extreme difficulty in the therapeutic management of patients with AIHA following UCBT. After an extensive review of the literature, the exact physiopathologic mechanisms of AIHA after allogeneic HSCT in general, and after UCBT in particular, and therefore an effective treatment remain unknown.

Incidence and natural history of pure red cell aplasia in major ABO-mismatched haematopoietic cell transplantation

Major ABO mismatching is not considered a contraindication to allogeneic haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). Modern reduced-intensity conditioning and reduced-toxicity regimens cause much less myeloablation than conventional myeloablative regimens, such as cyclophosphamide with busulfan or total body irradiation, which may affect the incidence of pure red cell aplasia (PRCA). We estimated the incidence and described the natural history of PRCA in patients with major ABO-mismatched donor stem cells. Between 2007 and 2008, 161 (27% of all patients undergoing HSCT) underwent allogeneic HSCT with major ABO-mismatched stem cells and 12 (7·5%) of these patients developed PRCA. Thirty and ninety day T-cell and myeloid cell chimerism and neutrophil and platelet engraftment did not differ between patients who developed PRCA and those who did not. The only risk factor associated with PRCA was the use of a fludarabine/busulfan conditioning regimen. All patients with PRCA needed red cell transfusion for several months after HSCT resulting in significant iron overload. Pure red cell aplasia resolved spontaneously in the majority (seven patients) but only resolved after stopping tacrolimus in three patients. Hence, after major ABO-mismatched HSCT, the incidence of PRCA was 7·5% and it resolved spontaneously or after withdrawal of immunosuppression in the majority of patients.

Successful Treatment of Pure Red Cell Aplasia with Rituximab in Patients after ABO-Compatible Allogeneic Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation

Pure red cell aplasia (PRCA) following allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) has been mostly reported in situations involving major ABO incompatibility between donor and recipient. Conventional treatments such as plasma exchange, erythropoietin, and steroid are often unsatisfactory. Rituximab has been reported to be highly effective for PRCA following major ABO-incompatible allogeneic HSCT. A 49-year-old woman with PRCA following ABO-matched allogeneic HSCT for acute lymphoblastic leukemia, refractory to erythropoietin treatment, received 4 doses of rituximab 375 mg/m² weekly. After the 3rd dose of rituximab, she exhibited a striking rise in her reticulocyte count with an increase in her hemoglobin level. To our knowledge, this is the first case of PRCA following major ABO-compatible allogeneic HSCT resolving completely after rituximab treatment.

Outcomes after major or bidirectional ABO-mismatched allogeneic hematopoietic progenitor cell transplantation after pretransplant isoagglutinin reduction with donor-type secretor plasma with or without plasma exchange

BACKGROUND

Major ABO mismatch in hematopoietic progenitor cell transplantation (HPCT) is associated with a range of immunohematologic consequences including progenitor cell infusion (PCI)-related hemolysis, delayed red blood cell engraftment, and pure red cell aplasia (PRCA). Although pretransplant (recipient) isoagglutinin reduction may be associated with decreased immunohematologic complications in this setting, there is no consensus with respect to strategies for isoagglutinin reduction.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

This observational study assessed the efficacy of a standardized pretransplant isoagglutinin reduction strategy incorporating donor-type secretor plasma infusions with or without plasma exchange to prevent PCI-associated hemolysis and PRCA in major or bidirectional ABO-mismatched peripheral blood HPCT. All major or bidirectional ABO-mismatched HPCTs performed between 1999 and 2010 were identified from an institutional database. Immunohematologic outcomes were determined retrospectively by review of individual medical records.

RESULTS

In total 110 major or bidirectional ABO-mismatched HPCTs had been performed. No patient developed hemolysis after PCI. With respect to PRCA incidence, 16 patients (15%) were excluded due to early mortality and three (3%) due to incomplete data; of the remaining 91 patients, five (5%) developed PRCA. Patients with PRCA had significantly higher pretransplant isoagglutinin titers (p = 0.0001) compared to those who did not develop PRCA.

CONCLUSIONS

Use of a standardized pretransplant isoagglutinin reduction strategy including donor-type secretor plasma infusions is both safe and efficient in preventing PCI-associated hemolysis and is associated with low rates of posttransplant PRCA.

Guidelines on the use of therapeutic apheresis in clinical practice--evidence-based approach from the Apheresis Applications Committee of the American Society for Apheresis

The American Society for Apheresis (ASFA) Apheresis Applications Committee is charged with a review and categorization of indications for therapeutic apheresis. Beginning with the 2007 ASFA Special Issue (fourth edition), the subcommittee has incorporated systematic review and evidence-based approach in the grading and categorization of indications. This Fifth ASFA Special Issue has further improved the process of using evidence-based medicine in the recommendations by refining the category definitions and by adding a grade of recommendation based on widely accepted GRADE system. The concept of a fact sheet was introduced in the Fourth edition and is only slightly modified in this current edition. The fact sheet succinctly summarizes the evidence for the use of therapeutic apheresis. The article consists of 59 fact sheets devoted to each disease entity currently categorized by the ASFA as category I through III. Category IV indications are also listed.

Impact of ABO-incompatible donor on early and late outcome of hematopoietic stem cell transplantation

ABO incompatibility is not a barrier to allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). However, the impact of an ABO mismatch on the outcome of the HSCT remains controversial. We analyzed whether ABO incompatibility leads to an increased risk of early/late complications, mortality, or increased transfusion requirements. The 147 consecutive allogeneic HSCTs includes 80 ABO-identical and 25 major, 30 minor, and 12 bidirectional ABO-mismatched grafts. The four groups were balanced with respect to disease status at transplantation. Transplantation-related mortality was significantly greater (P < .01) and overall survival significantly shorter (P = 0.2) among HSCT recipients with minor ABO-mismatched grafts. The relapse rate, progression-free survival, and transfusion requirements until discharge were not different between ABO-identical and ABO-mismatched groups. Pure red cell aplasia (PRCA); (P < .0001) and delayed red blood cell (RBC) engraftment (P < .001) were more frequent in HSCT recipients with major mismatched donors. Delayed RBC engraftment was associated with posttransplantation hyperferritininemia and increased mortality risk (P = .05). The greater frequency of sinusoidal obstruction syndrome and graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) in patients with minor mismatched transplants, did not show statistical significance. In contrast severe GVHD was significantly more frequent among minor mismatched patients (P = .04). ABO-mismatched HSCT might have an unfavorable impact on transplant outcomes. Selection of ABO-compatible donors when possible, strategies to prevent and treat PRCA, modifications in transfusion practice, and effective iron chelation are among the measures that can improve transplant outcomes.

Prevention of pure red cell aplasia after major or bidirectional ABO blood group incompatible hematopoietic stem cell transplantation by pretransplant reduction of host anti-donor isoagglutinins

BACKGROUND

Persistent anti-donor isoagglutinins after major ABO blood group incompatible hematopoietic stem cell transplantation may cause delayed red blood cell engraftment and post-transplant pure red cell aplasia.

DESIGN AND METHODS

We investigated the effect of pretransplant anti-donor isoagglutinin reduction by in vivo absorption and/or plasmapheresis on the incidence of pure red cell aplasia and the time to red blood cell engraftment in 153 hematopoietic stem cell transplant recipients with major ABO incompatibility.

RESULTS

Twelve patients (8%) developed pure red cell aplasia, 3/98 (3%) with, and 9/55 (16%) without prior isoagglutinin reduction (p=0.009). Red blood cell engraftment was faster in patients with isoagglutinin reduction; in addition, peripheral blood hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, acute graft-versus-host disease, and younger age were associated with faster red blood cell engraftment in Cox regression analysis. In patients with pure red cell aplasia the mean red blood cell engraftment occurred after 225 days (p<0.001) and was associated with a simultaneous decrease of anti-donor isoagglutinins. Patients with pure red cell aplasia had higher pretransplant anti-donor isoagglutinin titers (p=0.001) and received more post-transplant red blood cell transfusions (p<0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Following major ABO incompatible hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, pure red cell aplasia and delayed red blood cell engraftment depend on the levels of anti-donor isoagglutinins and are efficiently prevented by the pretransplant removal of these isoagglutinins. The benefits of reducing the time of transfusion-dependency and transfusion-associated risks must be carefully balanced against the potential side effects of isoagglutinin reduction.

Impact of ABO mismatching on the outcomes of allogeneic related and unrelated blood and marrow stem cell transplantations for hematologic malignancies: IPD-based meta-analysis of cohort studies

BACKGROUND

The impact of donor-recipient ABO matching on outcomes after allogeneic stem cell transplantation has been a matter of controversy.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

Individual patient data-based meta-analysis was conducted with a pooled data set provided through six published and one unpublished cohorts. Outcomes in recipients of peripheral blood or bone marrow transplantation for hematologic malignancies were evaluated. A multivariate Cox model was used to adjust differences in outcomes of patients receiving ABO-matched grafts with those receiving major, minor, or bidirectional mismatched grafts. Considering multiple testing, p values of less than 0.05 and 0.001 were considered significant for the primary and secondary endpoints, respectively.

RESULTS

In all, 1208 cases, including 697 ABO-matched and 202 major, 228 minor, and 81 bidirectional mismatched transplants, were analyzed. Overall, adverse impact of ABO matching on overall survival (OS), as a primary endpoint, was not observed (adjusted hazard ratios [95% confidence intervals]: major, 1.03 [0.82-1.30], p = 0.81; minor, 1.19 [0.97-1.47], p = 0.10; bidirectional, 1.25 [0.91-1.72], p = 0.17). Among related stem cell recipients, ABO matching had no significant influence on OS, while the minor and bidirectional mismatched groups among unrelated stem cell recipients exhibited lower OS with marginal significance, especially in patients with acute leukemia, patients who received transplants after 1998, and patients who underwent transplants at Asian centers.

CONCLUSIONS

Our meta-analysis demonstrates no adverse association between any ABO mismatching and survival. However, marginally lower OS found in recipients of minor or bidirectional mismatched grafts from unrelated donors suggested the need for larger studies focusing on unrelated transplants.