Infectious complications after autologous peripheral blood progenitor cell transplantation followed by G-CSF

Herpesvirus Screening in Childhood Hematopoietic Transplant Reveals High Systemic Inflammation in Episodes of Multiple Viral Detection and an EBV Association with Elevated IL-1β, IL-8 and Graft-Versus-Host Disease

Infections remain a major cause of morbidity and mortality among hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) recipients. Unlike Epstein–Barr Virus (EBV) and Human Cytomegalovirus (HCMV), Human Herpesvirus (HHV) 6, HHV7 and HHV8 are not routinely monitored in many centers, especially in the pediatric population of low–medium income countries. We screened EBV, HCMV, HHV6, HHV7 and HHV8 in 412 leukocytes-plasma paired samples from 40 pediatric patients assisted in a tertiary hospital in Mexico. Thirty-two underwent allo-HSCT, whereas eight received auto-HSCT. Overall viral detection frequencies in allo- and auto-HSCT were: EBV = 43.7% and 30.0%, HCMV = 5.0% and 6.7%, HHV6 = 7.9% and 20.0% and HHV7 = 9.7% and 23.3%. HHV8 was not detected in any sample. Interestingly, HHV6 and HHV7 were more frequent in auto-HSCT, and HHV6 was observed in all episodes of multiple detection in auto-HSCT patients. We found EBV DNA in plasma samples, whereas HCMV, HHV6 and HHV7 DNA were predominantly observed in leukocytes, indicative of their expansion in cellular compartments. We also found that IL-1β, IL-2, IL-6 and IL-8 were significantly increased in episodes in which multiple viruses were simultaneously detected, and samples positive for EBV DNA and graft-versus-host disease had a further increase of IL-1β and IL-8. In conclusion, the EBV, HCMV, HHV6 and HHV7 burdens were frequently detected in allo- and auto-HSCT, and their presence associated with systemic inflammation.

Early versus Late Fluconazole Prophylaxis in Autologous Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation

Candidemia is a major complication in hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT), and antifungal prophylaxis with fluconazole decreases the incidence of this complication. We compared 2 strategies for fluconazole prophylaxis in patients with hematologic malignancy undergoing autologous HCT between 1997 and 2017. From 1997 to 2003, fluconazole prophylaxis (400 mg/d) was given to all HCTs, started with the conditioning regimen (early prophylaxis), and given until neutrophil engraftment or the need of non-prophylactic antifungal therapy. From 2004 on, fluconazole (400mg daily) was started only if (and when) the patient developed oral mucositis (late prophylaxis). Among 571 HCT, 270 received early prophylaxis, 112 received late prophylaxis, and 189 did not receive fluconazole because they did not develop oral mucositis. The incidence of candidemia was 1.8% in the early prophylaxis group, 0% in the late prophylaxis group, and 1.1% in the no prophylaxis group (P = .31). Among patients receiving fluconazole, the median duration of prophylaxis was 17 days (range, 6-36 days) in the early prophylaxis group and 6 days (range, 2-16 days) in the late prophylaxis group (P < .001). The initiation of fluconazole prophylaxis guided by the occurrence of oral mucositis (late prophylaxis) was as good as early fluconazole prophylaxis.

The D-index is not correlated with invasive fungal infection during the early-post engraftment phase among allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplant recipients

The D-index assesses neutropenia dynamics. Prolonged neutropenia is a major risk for invasive fungal infection (IFI); we hypothesized that D-index is predictive of IFI risk. We retrospectively reviewed 789 adults who underwent allogeneic hematopoietic transplant (HSCT) from 1/1/2005 to 9/30/2015. Medical records were reviewed from transplant (D0) through Day 100. The D-index was calculated as area over the neutrophil curve until engraftment. 714 patients were included for analysis. Sixteen (2%) developed probable (11) or proven (5) IFI. Median time to IFI was 40 days (range 8-98) after HSCT. Groups with and without IFI did not differ significantly in duration of mild or profound neutropenia. Median D-index of those with IFI was 4293 days neutrophil/µl compared to 3590 days neutrophil/µl for those without IFI (P = 0.17). Patients who were neutropenic on D0 showed higher rates of IFI than those who were not (10/123 [8%] vs 6/591 [1%]; P < 0.001). Only 2% developed IFI, likely due to mold-active antifungal prophylaxis. The D-index was not significantly higher in those with IFI. Duration of profound neutropenia and neutropenia at D0 may be better markers for IFI among HSCT recipients during the first 30 and 100 days after transplant.

Cytomegalovirus reactivation in lymphoma and myeloma patients undergoing autologous peripheral blood stem cell transplantation

BACKGROUND

Cytomegalovirus reactivation is often diagnosed in allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplant recipients and therefore could lead to CMV-related disease, involving many organs in these immunocompromised patients. In contrast, few studies investigated CMV reactivation and end-organ disease in patients undergoing Autologous Peripheral Blood Stem Cell Transplant (ASCT) since they are considered at low risk for both reactivation and disease.

OBJECTIVES

The primary outcome of the analysis was to understand the difference in incidence of CMV reactivation between MM and Lymphoma patients. Secondary outcomes included the difference between MM and Lymphoma patients when considering the effect of CMV reactivation on transplant related mortality (TRM) overall survival (OS) progression free survival (PFS), risk factors for reactivation, and median time to reactivation.

STUDY DESIGN

In this report, we retrospectively compared the incidence, risk factors, and outcome of CMV reactivation in adult patients with Myeloma (MM) and Lymphoma undergoing ASCT at the American university of Beirut Medical Center in Lebanon (AUBMC). A total of 324 consecutive ASCT were performed between January 2005 and March 2016. Serial weekly monitoring for CMV quantification was done using a quantitative PCR, starting from transplantation until the hospital discharge and afterwards based on the clinical symptoms in cases of clinical suspicion of reactivation after discharge from the hospital.

RESULTS

The cumulative incidence of CMV reactivation was 16% (n=53) with a median time of 16 (range, 4-242) days after ASCT. The incidence of reactivation was significantly higher in the MM (22%) and NHL (20%) groups, when compared to the HL (4%) (P=0.001). There was a higher incidence of CMV reactivation according to age (≥50 vs ≤50 years) with higher incidence in the older population 24% vs 10% respectively (p=0.0043). The mean time to CMV reactivation was significantly higher in the NHL group with a mean of 53.7days when compared to the HL and MM groups with mean 19.75days and 12.66 (range, 4-34) days respectively (P=0.003). Twenty-two patients (76%) and three patients (75%) patients required specific antiviral therapy in the MM group and HL groups respectively; which was significantly higher (P<0.001) then the NHL group with 13 (65%) patients requiring specific antiviral therapy. Five patients (1.5%) developed CMV disease at a median of 60days (range, 7-107) post ASCT: there was significant difference in the mean-time to reactivation based on disease type MM versus lymphoma 10 versus 33days (P=0.007). In multivariate analysis, a higher age was associated with an increased risk of CMV reactivation; MM and NHL had higher risk of CMV reactivation when compared to HL, and progressive disease at transplant was associated with increased risk of CMV reactivation. After a median follow-up of 21.5 months (range: 1-125), there was no significant impact on PFS, however there was significant decrease in OS of lymphoma patients who had CMV reactivation when compared to those without CMV reactivation (204 and 112days respectively P=0.045). TRM increased from 1.1% in patients with no CMV reactivation to 13% in patients with CMV reactivation (P=0.003).

CONCLUSION

Our data suggests that CMV reactivation is not uncommon in ASCT recipients and may contribute to increase TRM. MM patients may have a higher incidence, of CMV reactivation with more anti-viral treatment requirements when compared to lymphoma patients, especially in older population.

D-index: A New Scoring System in Febrile Neutropenic Patients for Predicting Invasive Fungal Infections

OBJECTIVE

Neutropenia is a critical risk factor for invasive fungal infections (IFIs). We retrospectively performed this study to assess the performance of the D-index, a new test that combines both the duration and the severity of neutropenia, in predicting IFIs among patients with acute myelogenous leukemia. 


MATERIALS AND METHODS

Fifteen patients with IFIs and 28 patients who did not develop IFIs were enrolled in the study. The D-index was defined as the area over the neutrophil curve, whereas the cumulative-D-index (c-D-index) was the area over the neutrophil curve from the start of neutropenia until the first clinical manifestation of IFI.


RESULTS

The D-index and the c-D-index tended to be significantly higher in patients with IFIs, with medians of 10,150 (range: 4000-22,000) and 5300 (range: 2300-22,200), respectively (p=0.037 and p=0.003, respectively). The receiver operating characteristic analyses showed that there was a cutoff point of 3875 for the D-index in predicting IFI; the sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values were 100%, 67.9%, 35.4%, and 100%, respectively. There was also a cutoff point of 4225 for the c-D-index in predicting IFI; the sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values for the c-D-index were 93.3%, 71.4%, 36.6%, and 98.4%. 


CONCLUSION

The D-index and especially the c-D-index could be useful tools with high negative predictive value to exclude as well as to predict IFIs in the management of neutropenic patients.

Characteristics comparisons of bacteremia in allogeneic and autologous hematopoietic stem cell-transplant recipients with levofloxacin prophylaxis and influence on resistant bacteria emergence

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to compare the risk factors and clinical outcomes of bacteremia in allogeneic and autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplant (allo-HSCT and auto-HSCT) recipients with levofloxacin prophylaxis during the early period after transplantation.

METHODS

Characteristics of bacteremia within 45 days after transplantation between allo-HSCT and auto-HSCT recipients who received levofloxacin prophylaxis between January 2005 and December 2014 were retrospectively reviewed.

RESULTS

Of 105 HSCT recipients included in this study, 55 (52.4%) received an allo-HSCT and 50 (47.6%) received an auto-HSCT. Twenty-five patients (23.8%) with HSCT developed 28 episodes of bacteremia. Of these 25 bacteremia patients, 15 received an allo-HSCT, while 10 received an auto-HSCT. The occurrence of Grade 3-4 graft-versus-host disease and longer engraftment duration were associated with bacteremia in allo- and auto-HSCT recipients (p = 0.001 and p = 0.002, respectively). Auto-HSCT recipients with bacteremia had a longer hospital stay after transplantation, while allo-HSCT recipients with bacteremia had an increased 45-day mortality rate as compared with those without bacteremia (p = 0.014 and p = 0.013, respectively). All 14 Gram-negative blood isolates in this study were resistant to fluoroquinolone.

CONCLUSION

Levofloxacin prophylaxis in HSCT recipients is associated with the emergence of fluoroquinolone-resistant Gram-negative bacteria. The risk factors and clinical outcomes of bacteremia differ between allo- and auto-HSCT recipients, and these differences should be taken into account when designing strategies to prevent bacteremia.

Febrile neutropenic infection occurred in cancer patients undergoing autologous peripheral blood stem cell transplantation

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to investigate the incidence, risk factors, and clinical and prognostic characteristics of febrile infection that occurred during the neutropenic period in cancer patients who underwent autologous peripheral blood stem cell transplantation (APBSCT).

METHODS

Clinical data of all the APBSCT cases from 2007 to 2009 in Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center were collected and retrospectively analyzed.

RESULTS

Eighty-nine APBSCT subjects were investigated. Neutropenia usually occurred on the 4th day (range, 0-15) after transplantation and lasted 6 (range, 3-27) days. Febrile neutropenia occurred in 78.7% patients and lasted around 3 (range, 1-20) days and no infection-related deaths were observed. For febrile episodes, 12 patients (17.1%) were diagnosed as having microbiologically documented infections (MDI). Initial empirical antimicrobial therapy was given to all cases of post-APBSCT febrile neutropenia, of which 44 cases (62.9%) were effective. Febrile neutropenia occurred in 25/34 (73.5%) patients who were given antifungal drugs for prophylaxis.

CONCLUSIONS

Neutropenic infection is still the major complication in APBSCT patients and duration of neutropenia is one of the major risk factors. Prophylactic administration of antifungal drugs seems to be invalid to reduce post-APBSCT infection. Sufficient doses of broad-spectrum antibiotics at the early stage lead to better results of initial antimicrobial treatment.

Cytomegalovirus reactivation after autologous stem cell transplantation in myeloma and lymphoma patients: A single-center study

AIM: To determine the incidence of and the risk factors for cytomegalovirus (CMV) symptomatic infection and end-organ disease after autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT).

METHODS: A total of 327 consecutive non CD34⁺ selected autografts performed from the Hematology and Stem Cell Transplantation Unit of Regina Elena National Cancer Institute of Rome (Italy) in the period comprised between January 2003 to January 2015, were reviewed. Over the 327 autografts, 201 were performed in patients with multiple myeloma, whereas the remaining 126 in patients affected by non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma and Hodgkin’s lymphoma. The patients who underwent an ASCT for an acute leukemia (n = 20) in the same period were excluded from this analysis. CMV DNA load in the blood has been determined by polymerase-chain reaction in the case of a clinical suspicion of reactivation, therefore, no routine monitoring strategy was adopted. In the presence of signs and symptoms of CMV reactivation an antiviral treatment was performed.

RESULTS: Overall, 36 patients (11%) required a specific antiviral treatment for a symptomatic CMV reactivation (n = 32) or an end-organ disease (n = 4). We observed 20 and 16 cases of CMV reactivation among lymphoma (16%) and myeloma patients (8%), respectively. Among cases of end-organ disease, 3 were diagnosed as interstitial pneumonia and one remaining case as hemorrhagic enteritis. All cases of CMV reactivation were observed in IgG seropositive patients, with no documented cases of primary CMV infection. All patients were treated with a specific antiviral therapy, with a global rate of hospitalization of 55%; four patients received intravenous immunoglobulins. Transplant-related mortality was significantly higher in patients who experienced a CMV reactivation (8.4% ± 4.7% vs 1.7% ± 0.8%; P = 0.047). In univariate analysis, a pre-transplant HBcIgG seropositivity, a diagnosis of T-cell non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma and higher median age at transplant were significantly associated with the risk of developing a clinically relevant CMV infection requiring specific antiviral therapy (P < 0.001, P = 0.042 and P = 0.004, respectively). In multivariate analysis, only a pre-transplant HBcIgG seropositivity (OR = 8.928, 95%CI: 1.991-33.321; P = 0.023) and a diagnosis of T-cell non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma (OR = 4.739, 95%CI: 1.511-11.112; P = 0.042) proved to be independent predictors of a post-transplant clinically relevant CMV reactivation.

CONCLUSION: A symptomatic CMV infection can occur in about 11% of adult patients with lymphoma or myeloma undergoing ASCT. A pre-transplant HBcIgG seropositivity and a diagnosis of T-cell non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma should be considered as independent predictor factors of CMV reactivation.

Cytomegalovirus Reactivation in Adult Recipients of Autologous Stem Cell Transplantation: a Single Center Experience

INTRODUCTION

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) reactivation and infection are well-recognized complications after allogeneic stem cell transplantation (SCT). Only a few studies have addressed CMV reactivation after autologous SCT (ASCT).

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed medical records of 210 adult patients who underwent ASCT for lymphoma or multiple myeloma (MM) at a single center from January 1(st), 2007 until December 31(st), 2012. All patients were monitored weekly with CMV antigenemia test till day 42 after transplantation, and for 2 months after last positive test in those who had any positive CMV antigenemia test before day 42.

RESULTS

Thirty-seven (17.6%) patients had CMV reactivation; 23 patients had lymphoma while 14 had MM as the underlying disease. There was no difference in the rate of CMV reactivation between lymphoma and MM patients (20% versus 14.7%, P = 0.32). The majority of the patients were treated with ganciclovir/valganciclovir, all patients had their reactivation resolved with therapy, and none developed symptomatic CMV infection. None of the patients who died within 100 days of transplantation had CMV reactivation. Log-rank test showed that CMV reactivation had no effect on the overall survival of patients (P values, 0.29).

CONCLUSION

In our cohort, CMV reactivation rate after ASCT was 17.6%. There was no difference in reactivation rates between lymphoma and MM patients. With the use of preemptive therapy, symptomatic CMV infection was not documented in any patient in our cohort. CMV reactivation had no impact on patients' survival post ASCT.

Evaluation of risk of symptomatic cytomegalovirus reactivation in myeloma patients treated with tandem autologous stem cell transplantation and novel agents: a single-institution study

The introduction of proteasome inhibitors and/or immunomodulators in the treatment of myeloma has led to an increase in viral infections, particularly in the Herpesviridae family. Previous studies about the risk of cytomegalovirus (CMV) reactivation after autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) have examined the clinical outcome after the first ASCT; however, only 1 study to date has investigated the risk of CMV reactivation after a second transplantation. To address this issue, we performed a retrospective chart review on 78 consecutive myeloma patients (median age 56 years) who underwent a tandem non-CD34(+) selected ASCT after induction treatment with either conventional chemotherapy (n = 42) or with novel agents (n = 36), respectively. All subjects had been mobilized and conditioned with cyclophosphamide plus granulocyte colony-stimulating factor and melphalan alone, respectively. CMV DNA load in the blood has been determined by polymerase chain reaction in the case of a clinical suspicion of CMV reactivation; therefore, routine monitoring was not performed. Considering the outcome of both the first and the second transplantations, we observed a total of 13 episodes of symptomatic CMV reactivation (13/156, 8%), in 12 subjects (12/78, 15%), all successfully treated. Eight subjects experienced a CMV reactivation after the first ASCT (8/78, 10%); however, only 1 of them (1/8, 12%) experienced a CMV reactivation after the second transplantation. Conversely, 4 CMV reactivations (6%) were observed after the second transplantation in the group of 70 patients who did not experience a CMV reactivation after the first ASCT. No statistically significant difference was observed between first and second ASCT (8/78, 10% vs. 5/78, 6%; P = 0.767). Univariate analysis showed that a pre-transplant treatment with novel agents was the only baseline factor significantly associated with the occurrence of post-ASCT CMV symptomatic reactivation after the first transplant (odds ratio [OR]: 9.897; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.154-84.840; P = 0.021) but not after the second transplant (OR: 5.125; 95% CI: 0.546-48.119; P = 0.115). No end-organ disease or primary infection was documented. Our data suggest that second transplantation does not increase the risk of CMV reactivation in our patient population, when compared with the first one, and confirm the role of a pre-transplant treatment with novel agents as a risk factor for CMV symptomatic reactivation.

Antifungal prophylaxis among allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplant recipients: current issues and new agents

Invasive candidiasis and invasive mold infections cause significant morbidity and mortality in the hematopoietic stem cell transplant population, in particular in recipients of allografts. The introduction of a variety of new antifungal compounds over the past decade has focused attention on prophylactic strategies as a means to decrease the burden of invasive fungal infections (IFIs). Until recently, fluconazole has been the standard agent for prophylaxis before and after engraftment. In 2005, the echinocandin micafungin received US FDA approval for prophylaxis against IFIs in stem cell transplant recipients during the neutropenic period prior to engraftment. In patients with substantial risk for invasive mold infection, many centers now use a mold-active antifungal agent (e.g., a triazole such as itraconazole, voriconazole or posaconazole, or an echinocandin) as prophylaxis after engraftment. Several recent studies have highlighted the efficacy of these newer agents in preventing IFIs in these highly immunocompromised patients. This review will discuss current issues in IFI and new agents available for prophylaxis in allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplant recipients.

High incidence of post-transplant cytomegalovirus reactivations in myeloma patients undergoing autologous stem cell transplantation after treatment with bortezomib-based regimens: a survey from the Rome transplant network

The incidence of cytomegalovirus (CMV) reactivations in patients with multiple myeloma (MM) receiving autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) is relatively low. However, the recent increased use of novel agents, such as bortezomib and/or immunomodulators, before transplant, has led to an increasing incidence of Herpesviridae family virus infections. The aim of the study was to establish the incidence of post-engraftment symptomatic CMV reactivations in MM patients receiving ASCT, and to compare this incidence with that of patients treated with novel agents or with conventional chemotherapy before transplant. The study was a survey of 80 consecutive patients who underwent ASCT after treatment with novel agents (Group A). These patients were compared with a cohort of 89 patients treated with VAD regimen (vincristine, doxorubicin, and dexamethasone) before ASCT (Group B). Overall, 7 patients (4.1%) received an antiviral treatment for a symptomatic CMV reactivation and 1 died. The incidence of CMV reactivations was significantly higher in Group A than in Group B (7.5% vs. 1.1%; P = 0.048). When compared with Group B, the CMV reactivations observed in Group A were significantly more frequent in patients who received bortezomib, whether or not associated with immunomodulators (9.4% vs. 1.1%; P = 0.019), but not in those treated with immunomodulators only (3.7% vs. 1.1%; P = 0.396). These results suggest that MM patients treated with bortezomib-based regimens are at higher risk of developing a symptomatic CMV reactivation after ASCT.

The anti-Pseudomonas aeruginosa antibody Panobacumab is efficacious on acute pneumonia in neutropenic mice and has additive effects with meropenem

Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa) infections are associated with considerable morbidity and mortality in immunocompromised patients due to antibiotic resistance. Therefore, we investigated the efficacy of the anti-P. aeruginosa serotype O11 lipopolysaccharide monoclonal antibody Panobacumab in a clinically relevant murine model of neutropenia induced by cyclophosphamide and in combination with meropenem in susceptible and meropenem resistant P. aeruginosa induced pneumonia. We observed that P. aeruginosa induced pneumonia was dramatically increased in neutropenic mice compared to immunocompetent mice. First, Panobacumab significantly reduced lung inflammation and enhanced bacterial clearance from the lung of neutropenic host. Secondly, combination of Panobacumab and meropenem had an additive effect. Third, Panobacumab retained activity on a meropenem resistant P. aeruginosa strain. In conclusion, the present data established that Panobacumab contributes to the clearance of P. aeruginosa in neutropenic hosts as well as in combination with antibiotics in immunocompetent hosts. This suggests beneficial effects of co-treatment even in immunocompromised individuals, suffering most of the morbidity and mortality of P. aeruginosa infections.

Aminoglycoside-free interventional antibiotic management in patients undergoing haemopoietic stem cell transplantation

The position of aminoglycosides within interventional antibiosis in the early phase after stem cell transplantation has not been fully clarified so far although their use can induce serious renal impairment. To investigate this question early-infection data from 152 patients undergoing 195 allogeneic and autologous stem cell transplantations were investigated. Prophylaxis and treatment of infections followed international standards; however, aminoglycosides were omitted to avoid additional risks such as ototoxicity and nephrotoxicity and increased selection of resistant pathogens. Costs were another aspect.

The overall-incidence of infections was 78% (152/195) and 67 patients showed more than one episode of infection. Fever of unknown origin and bacteriaemia/septicaemia dominated the spectrum of infections. The overall-response to interventional regimen consisting of β-lactam or carbapenem plus glycopeptides was 48%. Aminoglycosides were given in three patients in the late course of disease. Overall mortality was 15/195 (7.7%) and clearly related to infection in nine cases mostly due to mould infection. A comparison with previous published literature showed no hint for inferiority of ‘aminoglycoside-free’ antibiotic management in stem cell transplant patients. In conclusion, the present analysis supports the policy to omit aminoglycosides in the therapy of early infections in patients undergoing stem cell transplantation to avoid additional toxicity.

Early infections in patients undergoing high-dose treatment with stem cell support: a comparison of patients with non-Hodgkin lymphoma and multiple myeloma

BACKGROUND

Infections are life-threatening complications in patients undergoing high-dose chemotherapy with stem cell support (HDT). Knowledge of the infectious pathogens is essential to make a safe outpatient setting.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective study of 208 patients treated with HDT. The population included non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) and multiple myeloma (MM) patients. No patients received prophylactic antibacterial treatment.

RESULTS

Pathogens were isolated from 44% of all patients. MM patients more frequently had multiple pathogens in blood cultures (38% versus 25%). Transplantation related mortality was similar between the groups.

CONCLUSION

The frequency of isolated pathogens, positive blood cultures, and the diversity of pathogens were higher in MM patients as compared to NHL patients. However, this did not translate into higher transplantation-related mortality, probably because broad-spectrum antibiotic treatment could be initiated immediately. A safe outpatient setting with prophylactic antibiotic treatment is dependent on continuous collection and registration of microbiological findings.

Infectious Complications in Adult Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL): Experience at One Single Center

Literature provides no specific data concerning the type and the risk factors for infection in adult patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). We retrospectively analyzed 97 adult ALL patients who underwent conventional chemotherapy during a 14-year period with the aim to assess the incidence and the factors affecting onset and outcome of infections. We found that during induction therapy 50% of patients developed infection, mainly caused by gram-negative bacteria and with a mortality rate of 11%. In multivariate analysis age > 60 years was significantly associated with more infections (P = 0.04) and higher related mortality (P = 0.03). Moreover, in 22% of patients infectious complications occurred during consolidation or maintenance therapy. Mortality rate of these infections, mostly due to opportunistic pathogens, was 16%. Factors affecting mortality was the cumulative dose of methylprednisolone given during induction therapy ( < or = 2600 mg = 31% vs. > 2600 mg = 69%; P = 0.03). Among neutropenic patients, adults with ALL represent a peculiar population since they frequently develop gram negative infections during induction and opportunistic infections during post-remission treatments. Advanced age and high-dose methylprednisolone result the major risk factors for infection related mortality in the former therapeutic phase and in the latter one, respectively.

Characteristics of and risk factors for pneumonia in patients with hematological malignancies developing fever after autologous blood stem cell transplantation

We analyzed the incidence, etiology, risk factors and outcomes of 49 episodes of pneumonia that developed in 326 adult patients undergoing autologous stem-cell transplantation (ASCT) from January 1990 to December 2005. The median time for the onset of pneumonia after transplantation was 11 days (range 0-148). Empirical antibiotic therapy in patients with pneumonia consisted of piperacillin-tazobactam (20 cases, 49%), third-generation cephalosporin (11 cases, 27%) and carbapenem (8 cases, 19%). Multivariate analysis showed that a higher risk of pneumonia could be predicted for patients with myeloma (P = 0.006) and for patients with an absolute neutrophil count <0.5 x 10(9)/L >7 days (P = 0.008). Cumulative incidence of transplant-related mortality at 6 months was 51% versus 8% for patients with or without pneumonia, respectively (P = 0.001). Pneumonia after ASCT is a severe complication more commonly observed in patients with myeloma and with prolonged duration of neutropenia.

Antiviral prophylaxis in patients with haematological malignancies and solid tumours: Guidelines of the Infectious Diseases Working Party (AGIHO) of the German Society for Hematology and Oncology (DGHO)

Morbidity and mortality in patients with malignancies are increased by viral infections. These mostly are reactivations of asymptomatic latent infections. They primarily concern clinical entities associated with the reactivation of herpes viruses, such as varicella zoster virus (VZV) and cytomegalovirus (CMV). Respiratory tract infections caused by influenza, parainfluenza or respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) are less common. Since reactivation of latent infections has major clinical impact, antiviral prophylaxis is an attractive approach for patients expecting immunosuppression. The main risk factor for clinically relevant reactivation is profound disruption of cellular immune response. Duration and severity of chemotherapy induced neutropenia are of lesser importance. The risk of viral complications rises significantly in the presence of sustained suppression of T-cell function, e.g. in recipients of allogeneic stem cell transplants or of alemtuzumab (Campath-1H) antibody therapy. The objective of this guideline is to review the basis of prophylactic strategies and to provide recommendations for clinicians treating patients with haematological malignancies and solid tumors.

Recovery from neutropenia can be predicted by the immature reticulocyte fraction several days before neutrophil recovery in autologous stem cell transplant recipients

The duration of neutropenia (absolute neutrophil count (ANC) < or = 100/microl) identifies cancer patients at risk for infection. A test that precedes ANC > or = 100/microl would be of clinical value. The immature reticulocyte fraction (IRF) reflects erythroid engraftment and hence a recovering marrow. We evaluated the IRF as predictor of marrow recovery among 90 myeloma patients undergoing their first and second (75 patients) melphalan-based autologous stem cell transplantation (Mel-ASCT). The time to IRF doubling (IRF-D) preceded ANC > or = 100/microl in 99% of patients after the first Mel-ASCT by (mean+/-s.d.) 4.23+/-1.96 days and in 97% of the patients after the second Mel-ASCT by 4.11+/-1.95 days. We validated these findings in a group of 117 myeloma patients and 99 patients with various disorders undergoing ASCT with different conditioning regimens. We also compared the time to hypophosphatemia and to absolute monocyte count > or = 100/microl to the time to ANC > or = 100/microl. These markers were reached prior to this ANC end point in 55 and 25% of patients but were almost always preceded by IRF-D. We conclude that the IRF-D is a simple, inexpensive and widely available test that can predict marrow recovery several days before ANC> or = 100/microl.

Correlation of residual leukocyte subsets with neutropenic fever during severe leukopenia after high-dose chemotherapy and autologous stem cell transplantation

BACKGROUND

High-dose chemotherapy with autologous stem cell transplantation is the standard treatment of eligible patients with multiple myeloma. However, this treatment is associated with a substantial risk of infectious complications during leukopenia. The aim of our pilot study was to determine the residual leukocyte subsets during severe cytopenia after high-dose melphalan and to correlate this with the occurrence of neutropenic fever.

METHODS

Residual leukocyte subsets in the peripheral blood on days 4-7 following autologous stem cell transplantation were analyzed by three-color flow cytometry in 20 patients with multiple myeloma. In addition, we determined the number of T cells that were transfused with the autografts.

RESULTS

Absolute numbers of lymphocytes (mean 25/microL) and monocytes (mean 4/microL) were strongly reduced but rather constant during the period of severe neutropenia. Neutrophil engraftment and duration of neutropenia were very similar in patients with and without neutropenic fever. Low absolute lymphocyte counts and absolute CD4+ T-cell counts on days 4-7 after stem cell transplantation correlated with neutropenic fever. Furthermore, T-cell numbers in the autologous stem cell grafts that the patients received were significantly lower in patients with neutropenic fever.

DISCUSSION

These observations suggest that the number of T cells, and in particular CD4+ T cells, in the blood during severe cytopenia is playing a role in defense of infection. T-cell numbers in the graft could provide a predictive factor for the risk of infection in the post-transplant period. However, this needs to be confirmed in a larger study.

[Infectious complications postengrafment in the first year after autologous stem cell transplantation in children]

BACKGROUND

Studies on the infectious complications postengrafment in pediatric stem cell transplantation patients are rare. The aim of this study was to assess the incidence, types, outcome and factors affecting late infections.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A single-institution retrospective analysis was done of infections recorded in the first year following engrafment in children who underwent autologous stem cell transplantation for solid tumors from January 1991 to December 2000. A systematic antimicrobial chemoprophylaxis of TMP/SMX was administered. Patients who were at high risk for varicella-zona virus infection received prophylactic acyclovir.

RESULTS

Eighty-four assessable patients were enrolled. Fifty-four patients (64%) underwent autologous peripheral blood stem cell transplantation and 30 patients (36%) underwent bone marrow transplantation. Forty-nine episodes of infections were documented in 39 patients (46%) of whom 27 patients (32%) developed infections after the first 100 days post transplantation. Bacterial septicemia occurred in nine patients of whom four patients had a catheter-related septicemia. Twelve patients (14%) developed localized herpes zoster infection. Local fungal infection occurred in five patients. Infection-related death occurred in one patient with non-documented pneumonitis. Univariable analysis showed a correlation between the CD34(+) cell dose <7.5 10(6)/kg and the development of infections (P =0.04). Patients who did not go into remission after transplantation where at high risk for septicemia (P =0.007). Multivariate analysis showed that a history of varicella or pretransplant varicella-zona positivity was the only significant factor for development zoster infection (P =0.01).

CONCLUSION

Our study shows that infections in the first year postengrafment following autologous stem cell transplantation for solid tumors have a good prognosis and that the use of TMP/SMX should be the single systematic antimicrobial prophylaxis. The CD34(+) cell dose seems to play a role in preventing late infections.

Evaluation of potential risk factors for early infectious complications after autologous peripheral blood stem cell transplantation in patients with lymphoproliferative diseases

A number of risk factors for the occurrence of neutropaenic fever after haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) have been proposed. We were interested in whether these factors remain valid for several early infection-related outcomes when applied to a homogeneous group of patients in uni- and multivariate analyses. Therefore, we analysed 144 consecutive patients with lymphoproliferative disorders receiving autologous peripheral blood HSCT. Variables tested as potential risk factors for the occurrence of fever, documented infection (DI), microbiologically documented infection (MDI) or failure of first-line antimicrobial therapy were sex, conditioning regimen, prolonged neutropaenia, low number of CD34+ cells transplanted, purging, lack of selective gut decontamination, higher age and increased body mass index. In uni- and multivariate analyses, conditioning including total body irradiation was the only risk factor for the occurrence of fever, and neutropaenia >or=10 days was the only factor associated with failure of first-line antimicrobial therapy. None of the variables tested was associated with an increased risk for DI or MDI. This analysis suggests that a number of previously proposed risk factors actually are of minor clinical relevance for early infections in the majority of patients receiving autologous HSCT.

Steroids prevent engraftment syndrome after autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation without increasing the risk of infection

Engraftment syndrome (ES) following autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (AHSCT) is characterized by fever and rash. In January 2002, we instituted steroid prophylaxis for ES from day +4 to +14. This study was conducted to assess whether this practice increased the risk of infection. In total, 194 consecutive patients were reviewed, 111 did not receive steroid prophylaxis (group A), and 83 did (group B). Initial antimicrobial prophylaxis was the same in both groups. There were no significant differences between groups in age, gender, race, prior radiation therapy, number of prior chemotherapy regimens, disease status at transplant, mobilization regimen, days of leukopheresis, CD34(+) cell dose, and days to platelet and neutrophil engraftment. Group B had significantly fewer patients with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma and multiple myeloma, shorter median duration from diagnosis to transplant, lower risk of ES, and shorter mean length of hospital stay. The incidence of early and late microbiologically confirmed infections was not significantly different between groups. Types of infections and types of organisms identified were similar in both groups. Hospital readmission rates were similar in both groups. Steroid prophylaxis significantly decreases the risk of ES following AHSCT, and is associated with shortened hospitalization, without increasing risk of infection.

Aspergillus infections in transplant recipients

Aspergillus infections are occurring with an increasing frequency in transplant recipients. Notable changes in the epidemiologic characteristics of this infection have occurred; these include a change in risk factors and later onset of infection. Management of invasive aspergillosis continues to be challenging, and the mortality rate, despite the use of newer antifungal agents, remains unacceptably high. Performing molecular studies to discern new targets for antifungal activity, identifying signaling pathways that may be amenable to immunologic interventions, assessing combination regimens of antifungal agents or combining antifungal agents with modulation of the host defense mechanisms, and devising diagnostic assays that can rapidly and reliably diagnose infections represent areas for future investigations that may lead to further improvement in outcomes.

Long-term antifungal prophylaxis in high-risk hematopoietic stem cell transplant recipients

The risks for invasive fungal infections, particularly mould infections such as invasive aspergillosis, among hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) recipients are linked to the duration and severity of myelosuppression and immunosuppression. Strategies to prevent invasive fungal infections have focused primarily on the use of orally administered azole antifungal agents during the neutropenic period rather than on the more prolonged post-engraftment period. The major limitations of these studies included the heterogeneity among the subjects studied for fungal infection risk factors, the agents administered, the dosing, and duration of prophylaxis. More recent studies have attempted to examine the efficacy of antifungal prophylaxis strategies among allogeneic HSCT recipients to day 100 and beyond. It is clear that a variety of products have efficacy in preventing invasive candidiasis, including imidazole and triazole antifungals, low-dose amphotericin B, and the echinocandin, micafungin; however, only the extended spectrum azole, itraconazole, has been shown to impact the incidence of proven invasive aspergillosis. Other extended spectrum azole antifungal agents, voriconazole and posaconazole, are being studied as long-term prophylaxis in high-risk HSCT recipients. While clinical trials have suggested that a duration of prophylaxis against moulds of six months or more may be required, it remains unclear if this is required in all cases. The prophylactic efficacy over time may be linked to the degree of immunosuppression as measured by markers such as the numbers of circulating CD4 T lymphocytes. Concerns about selection for resistant moulds among long-term recipients of these drugs are emerging. The cumulative experience to date suggests that long-term antifungal chemoprophylaxis is feasible and effective when applied in defined circumstances. The concerns about treatment-related toxicities, resistance, and costs are valid.

Invasive fungal infections in autologous stem cell transplant recipients: a nation-wide study of 1188 transplanted patients

Based on small single-centre series, the risk of invasive fungal infections (IFI) has been considered small in autologous stem cell transplant (ASCT) recipients.

PURPOSE

To analyse epidemiological and clinical features of (IFI) among ASCT recipients in Finland 1990-2001.

PATIENTS

During the study period, 1188 adult patients received high-dose therapy supported by ASCT in six centres. Altogether, 1112 patients (94%) received blood progenitor cells. The graft was CD34+ selected in 261 patients (22%). The major diagnostic groups were non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (n = 417), multiple myeloma (n = 395), breast cancer (n = 132) and Hodgkin's lymphoma (n = 53).

RESULTS

Eighteen patients (1.5%) with IFI were identified. The incidence of proven or probable invasive aspergillosis was 0.8%, followed by candidaemia with an incidence of 0.3%. The median time to the diagnosis of IFI was 35 d (6-162) from the progenitor cell infusion. In fourteen patients (78%) IFI was diagnosed during lifetime and they were treated with antifungal therapy for a median of 50 d. Nine patients (64%) were cured.

CONCLUSIONS

IFI appears to be a rare event after ASCT and Aspergillus infections seem to be predominant. These epidemiological features have an impact in planning prophylactic and empirical antifungal strategies in ASCT recipients.

Immune reconstitution, infectious complications and post transplant supportive care measures after autologous blood and marrow transplantation in children

We retrospectively analyzed data on T- and B-cell reconstitution and infectious complications in 58 children undergoing ABMT, in order to evaluate post-transplant supportive care measures used during the study period. Normalization of T-cell number and lymphocyte proliferative responses to phytohemagglutinin (PHA) and alloantigen (MLC) occurred in two-thirds of children by 6 months post transplant. Normal IgM levels developed in 75% of children by 6 months post transplant. A total of 34 children (59%) developed 39 episodes of infection between neutrophil engraftment and 1 year post transplant. The most common infections included bacteremia, varicella-zoster virus infection and pneumonia, which represented 46, 23 and 9% of infections, respectively. All patients with bacteremia had a central venous catheter in place at the time of infection. Most infections (77%) developed by 6 months post transplant. In this small patient cohort, time to normalization of tests of T- and B-cell function was not significantly different between patients with and without infection. Earlier removal of an indwelling central venous catheter may decrease the risk of bacteremia post transplant. Post-transplant supportive care measures may be discontinued at 6 months post ABMT in most children, as the risk of infection decreases after that time.

Autologous tandem transplantation: almost complete reduction of neutropenic fever following the second transplantation by ex vivo expanded autologous myeloid postprogenitor cells

Reduced post-transplant performance status because of infectious complications is still a problem following autologous peripheral blood stem cell transplantation (aPBSCT). In this study, a tandem transplantation scheme for 15 patients with breast cancer including etoposide (1500 mg/m(2)), ifosfamide (12 g/m(2)) and carboplatin (1500 mg/m(2)) as conditioning regimens, followed by aPBSCT, was used to evaluate the potential clinical benefit of the additional retransfusion of low numbers of ex vivo expanded committed myeloid postprogenitor cells (PPCs) (median 408 x 103 CFU-c/kg BW, range 0.93-1995) following the second transplantation. Following a 7+2 days expansion (using recombinant human SCF, IL-1beta, IL-3, IL-6 + G-CSF), CFU-c generated from CD34-positive cells from leukapheresis products could be expanded by a median factor of 153 (range 5-434). Flow cytometric analysis and morphology of CFUs have shown a nearly exclusive expansion and differentiation of committed myeloid progenitor cells and a significant reduction of CD34-positive cells. In an intra- and interindividual comparison it could be shown that the retransfusion of committed myeloid postprogenitor cells significantly accelerates myeloid recovery. Although retransfusion of PPCs fails to abrogate severe neutropenia following aPBSCT, it significantly ameliorates infectious complications and shortens the duration of hospital stay.

Long-term hematologic reconstitution after autologous peripheral blood progenitor cell transplantation: a comparison between controlled-rate freezing and uncontrolled-rate freezing at 80 degrees C

BACKGROUND

The most widely used system for peripheral blood progenitor cell (PBPC) cryopreservation is controlled-rate freezing (CRF). Uncontrolled-rate freezing (URF) at -80 degrees C has also been used, but its clinical impact has not been studied sufficiently yet.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

Two groups of patients were compared: Group A consisted of 69 patients autotransplanted with PBPCs cryopreserved with CRF; Group B consisted of 192 patients autotransplanted with PBPCs cryopreserved with URF at -80 degrees C. The same cryoprotectant solution and storage system were used.

RESULTS

A significant delay of hematologic reconstitution (HR) in the URF group was observed for neutrophils greater than 0.5 x 10(9) per L and for platelets greater than 20 x 10(9) per L and greater than 50 x 10(9) per L; we did not observe any differences in the clinical course. The long-term HR was comparable in the two groups, all patients showed stable engraftment, and no late graft failures were observed.

CONCLUSION

Our study confirms that URF is safe and allows sustained long-term engraftment without increasing the risks of transplantation, even though the early engraftment after URF is slower.

Risk of neutropenic fever and early infectious complications after autologous peripheral blood stem cell transplantation for malignant diseases

Autologous peripheral blood stem cell transplantation (auto-PBSCT) has facilitated high-dose chemotherapy for the treatment of various types of malignancy, but the factors affecting the treatment outcome have not been well defined. We evaluated patients who underwent auto-PBSCT (46 patients with hematological malignancies and 39 with solid tumors) to elucidate the risks of background factors, including age, in association with infectious complications. In contrast to former reports, faster engraftment did not influence the incidence of documented infection or neutropenic fever, whereas high age (age > or = 50 years old) and delayed platelet recovery (> or = 18 days) were demonstrated to be positively involved. The odds ratio (OR) for documented infection in elderly patients was 4.94 (95% confidence interval, 1.22-15.8). Another risk factor of infection was the HD-ICE regimen (ifosfamide, carboplatin, etoposide) given to patients with solid tumors (OR, 8.00; 95% confidence interval, 1.61-39.7). In conclusion, we found that elderly patients and patients on the HD-ICE regimen have a higher risk of infectious complications even after auto-PBSCT. Although the clinical indications for auto-PBSCT can be extended to elderly patients, thorough precautions should be taken against infectious complications during the pre-engraftment phase.

Rituximab in vivo purging is safe and effective in combination with CD34-positive selected autologous stem cell transplantation for salvage therapy in B-NHL

The purpose of this study was to evaluate feasibility and efficacy of Rituximab included into a sequential salvage protocol for CD20(+) B-NHL in relapse or induction failure. Twenty-seven patients with CD20(+) B-NHL in relapse or induction failure received Rituximab combined with DexaBEAM (R-DexaBEAM) for stem cell mobilization. Additional ex vivo selection of CD34-positive cells was performed using the CliniMacs device. Two doses of Rituximab were included in the high-dose therapy regimen (HDT). R-DexaBEAM was well tolerated and 26 of 27 patients mobilized sufficient numbers of CD34(+) blood stem cells. Application of R-DexaBEAM resulted in significant depletion of peripheral B cells. No treatment-related deaths occurred after HDT and all patients showed stable engraftment of hematopoesis. Combined immunodeficiency was observed post HDT and eight patients developed CMV antigenemia. Remission rate post HDT was 96% (CR, 24/26; PR, 1/26). Overall and progression-free survival (PFS) at 16 months post HDT (range 6-27) is 95% and 77%, respectively. With regard to histology, PFS was 71% in aggressive lymphoma (n = 11), 74% in indolent FCL (n = 10) and 100% in MCL (n = 5). The treatment protocol has proven feasible, with high purging efficiency and encouraging remission rates.

Infections during mobilizing chemotherapy and following autologous stem cell transplantation

Autologous peripheral blood stem cells (PBSC), for transplantation following high-dose chemotherapy, are collected using regimens containing cytokines with or without chemotherapy. The added period of neutropenia prior to stem cell transplantation (SCT) in patients receiving chemotherapy mobilization may increase the risk of infections following transplantation. We studied the incidence of culture-positive infections in 107 consecutive patients who were divided into three groups, according to whether they experienced extended neutropenia during chemotherapy for stem cell mobilization as well as post autotransplant. All the patients received antibiotic prophylaxis and hematopoietic growth factors during neutropenia. The total duration of pre-transplant neutropenia differed among the three mobilization schemes (growth factors alone; one cycle; or two cycles of chemotherapy plus growth factor for mobilization) at 0, 6 and 18 days, respectively (median). However the post-autograft time to myeloid engraftment was similar at 10 days (median). The incidence of culture-proven infections in all three groups was similar. Using fluconazole for yeast prophylaxis, 40% patients developed gastrointestinal colonization with yeast, and the majority of speciated isolates were Candida glabrata. Bacteremia developed in 22% and 9% of patients with S. epidermidis and Gram-negative organisms, respectively, while 11% developed C. difficile-associated diarrhea. In conclusion, treatment using none, one or two cycles of mobilizing chemotherapy pre-transplant does not influence the overall incidence of infections among autologous SCT recipients. However, although post-transplant neutropenia is brief, infections remain a significant cause of morbidity.

Infectious complications in breast cancer patients undergoing peripheral blood stem cell transplantation: a single center retrospective analysis towards outpatient strategy

Infectious complications were retrospectively analyzed in 129 transplants, performed in 90 patients, to identify characteristics that qualify breast cancer patients for outpatient-based PBSCT. Thirty-one cases (24%) did not develop fever. Of the remaining 98 cases, 84.7% developed fever during severe neutropenia. On univariate analysis, disease stages II-III, first PBSCT, mucositis grades II-IV and the use of two alkylators were associated with a higher risk of fever development. The latter two factors also affected fever occurrence on multivariate analysis. A longer median time to fever onset was observed in patients conditioned with single as compared to double alkylating agent-containing regimens (respectively 8th vs 6th day, P < 0.00001). As compared with metastatic breast cancer (MBC), high risk breast cancer showed a 2.3-fold increased risk of developing early fever during neutropenia (CI 2.3-3.8), remaining the only variable still significant on multivariate analysis (P = 0.0039). Combination antibiotic therapy was equivalent to single agent therapy. Patients suffering from microbiologically documented fever were at higher risk of undergoing second-line antibiotic therapy. In conclusion, MBC patients treated with a conditioning regimen containing only one alkylating agent and adequate prophylaxis for mucositis may qualify for outpatient-based PBSCT on the basis of a lower risk of infection.

Very low toxicity and good quality of life in 48 elderly patients autotransplanted for hematological malignancies: a single center experience

Between May 1994 and May 2000, we autotransplanted 48 consecutive patients, 21 females and 27 males aged over 60 years (range: 60-78, median: 63). Sixteen patients had multiple myeloma (MM), 14 high-grade non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (HGNHL), six low-grade non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (LGNHL), nine acute myeloid leukemia (AML), one chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), one Hodgkin's disease (HD) and one breast cancer; the performance status (WHO) was 0-1. Seventeen patients were in 1st CR (35.4%) and one in 2nd CR (2.1%), 25 in PR (52.1%), while five patients had been transplanted with progressive disease (10.4%); seven patients with MM received a double transplant. Patients received high-dose therapy including melphalan alone (13) or associated with other drugs (26), busulfan-cyclophosphamide (three), BEAM (11) and TBI (two). All patients took a median of 11 (range: 8-25) days to reach neutrophils >500/microl, 13 (range: 9-83) days to reach platelets > 20,000/microl and 17 (range: 11-83) days to reach platelets > 50,000/microl. Hematological toxicity, hospital stay and supportive care did not differ from those of a cohort of younger patients. At present, 31 patients are alive (14 in CR, five in PR, five in PD and seven in relapse) and 16 died from PD at a median follow-up of 37 months (1-67). Only one patient died from transplant-related toxicity. Quality of life, evaluated using a QLQ-C30 questionnaire in 25 patients at day +90, was good. In our experience PBPC mobilization and transplantation is feasible in patients aged > or = 60 years and the toxicity of this procedure is acceptable, with an early transplant-related mortality of 1.8%; therefore patients with hematological malignancies potentially curable with high-dose therapy (HDT) should also be candidates for HDT.

A predictive model of varicella-zoster virus infection after autologous peripheral blood progenitor cell transplantation

Varicella-zoster virus (VZV) frequently causes severe infections in patients who have undergone bone marrow transplantation. The frequency of, characteristics of, and risk factors for this infection were studied in 164 patients undergoing autologous peripheral blood progenitor cell transplantation (PBPCT). Twenty-six patients (15.8%) developed VZV infection, and the actuarial risk was 10% at 1 year. No patient had visceral dissemination or died because of VZV, although one-third of the patients developed postherpetic neuralgia. By multivariate analysis, a CD4(+) lymphocyte count of <200 cells/microL (P<.0001; odds ratio [OR], 2.0) and a CD8(+) lymphocyte count of <800 cells/microL (P=.0073; OR, 2.0) at day 30 after transplantation were factors associated with VZV infection. Patients with both these adverse factors had an actuarial risk of VZV of 48% at 1 year. Patients with deficiency in both CD4(+) and CD8(+) lymphocytes are at high risk of VZV infection. These patients should be considered as candidates for preventive therapy, but whether for antiviral therapy or vaccination remains to be investigated.

Cytomegalovirus pneumonia in adult autologous blood and marrow transplant recipients

CMV pneumonia is a major cause of morbidity and mortality among allogeneic BMT recipients. To assess the frequency, timing, risk factors and response to therapy of CMV pneumonia among autologous BMT recipients, we reviewed our experience with 795 patients. Sixteen (2%) patients were diagnosed with CMV pneumonia. The frequency was higher among patients who were seropositive than those who were seronegative (3.3% vs 0%, P = 0.008). Among seropositive patients, the frequency was higher among patients with hematological malignancies than patients with solid tumors (5.0 % vs 1.0%, P = 0.019). Eleven cases occurred <30 days, and five cases occurred >100 days post transplant. The overall CMV pneumonia-related mortality rate was 31%. Seven (78%) of nine patients treated with ganciclovir and IVIG prior to respiratory failure survived; neither of two patients treated after respiratory failure survived. Four of five (80%) untreated patients survived. In conclusion, CMV is a not infrequent cause of pneumonia among autologous BMT recipients. Risk factors include CMV seropositivity and an underlying hematological malignancy. A favorable response hinges on the prompt initiation of therapy. The survival of 25% of the patients without antiviral therapy suggests that the isolation of CMV from a BAL specimen occasionally reflects oropharyngeal contamination or that CMV pneumonia may sometimes be self-limited in more immunocompetent autologous BMT recipients.

Amifostine can reduce mucosal damage after high-dose melphalan conditioning for peripheral blood progenitor cellautotransplant: a retrospective study

Amifostine (WR-2721; Ethyol) is a well-known cytoprotector, but a possible role in preventing extrahaematological toxicity after high-dose therapy (HDT) has never been investigated. We compared two historical groups of patients who either received (group A, n = 35) or did not receive (group B, n = 33) amifostine (740 mg/m2) before high-dose (HD) melphalan, followed by autologous infusion of peripheral blood progenitor cells (PBPCs). Amifostine was well tolerated at this dose level. Emesis grade 1-2 was the most important side-effect, but the interruption of infusion was never required. The incidence and median duration of severe mucositis (grade 3-4) was 21% and 0 d (range 0-11 d) in group A and 53% and 7 d (range 0-11 d) in group B. The duration of analgesic therapy was also significantly lower in group A (0 d; range 0-12) than in group B (6 d, range 0-20) (P = 0.0001). Severe diarrhoea (3% vs. 25%; P = 0.01) and emesis (9% vs. 34%; P = 0.01) were also reduced in group A in comparison with group B. No differences were observed between the two groups for haematological recovery. This retrospective study strongly suggests that amifostine can reduce severe mucositis and the use of analgesic drugs in this setting. A randomized study is warranted to confirm these preliminary results.