Hepatic veno-occlusive disease after myeloablative treatment and bone marrow transplantation: value of gray-scale and Doppler US in 100 patients

Utility of liver stiffness measurement in the diagnosis of sinusoidal obstruction syndrome/veno-occlusive disease after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation

PURPOSE

We aimed to assess the role of liver stiffness measurement (LSM), evaluated using transient elastography (TE), for the diagnosis of sinusoidal obstruction syndrome (SOS)/veno-occlusive disease (VOD), a complication of hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT).

METHODS

In this retrospective study, ultrasonography (US) and LSM were performed on 86 adult patients (55 men and 31 women) undergoing HSCT between January 2016 and December 2022. Characteristics and changes in liver stiffness (LS) were compared between patients with and without SOS/VOD.

RESULTS

Of the 86 patients, 14 were diagnosed with SOS/VOD. A significant increase in LS (ranging from 12.6 to 55.1 kPa, median 23.8 kPa) compared to pre-HSCT values was observed in all patients who developed SOS/VOD. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) for the diagnosis of SOS/VOD was 0.9663 (0.933-0.995) for LS ≥ 17.4 kPa after HSCT. Post-transplant LS exceeded 17.4 kPa in all 14 patients in the SOS/VOD group (100%) and in seven patients in the non-SOS/VOD group (9.7%). The sensitivity and specificity were 100% and 90.3%, respectively. AUROC for the diagnosis of SOS/VOD was 0.973 (0.943-1.000) for LS increase ≥  + 12.6 kPa from baseline after HSCT. The change of ≥  + 12.6 kPa from baseline was observed in all 14 patients in the SOS/VOD group (100%) and in four patients in the non-SOS/VOD group (5.6%). The sensitivity and specificity were 100% and 94.4%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

LSM using TE may contribute to establishing the diagnosis of SOS/VOD after HSCT.

Prospective Assessment of Treatment-Induced Liver Injury as a Cause of Diffuse Pathologic Hepatic Enhancement in Contrast-Enhanced Ultrasound

OBJECTIVE

A hypo-enhancement of the liver in contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS), pathologic one-minute hepatic enhancement (pOMHE), was recently observed in 70% of allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation patients with a high-risk profile for veno-occlusive disease (VOD). Whether pOMHE was a pre-clinical sign of VOD or an unspecific feature of liver damage secondary to intensive chemotherapy is unclear.

METHODS

To investigate this, we studied CEUS patterns in patients receiving high-dose chemotherapy prior to autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (auto-HSCT) or intensive induction therapy (IT) for the treatment of acute leukemia. From April 2020 to May 2021, patients undergoing auto-HSCT (n = 20) or acute leukemia patients prior to IT (n = 20) were included. All patients underwent a B-mode ultrasound and CEUS of the liver and spleen before treatment (d0) and on day 10 (d10) after therapy start. The one-minute hepatic enhancement was quantified. An optical density of liver enhancement less than 90% compared with the spleen was considered pathologic (pOMHE). Clinical and laboratory parameters used to assess a drug-induced liver injury (DILI) were documented.

RESULTS

The OMHE was normal (d0 and d10) in 36 (90%) patients. After IT, 2 of 20 patients had a pOMHE. A DILI grade IV was diagnosed in one case and hyperfibrinolysis in the second case. In 2 of 20 (5%) auto-HSCT patients a pOMHE was observed at d10 without clinical symptoms.

CONCLUSION

Chemotherapy-induced effects are not the cause of a pathologic liver enhancement. In contrast, severe DILI or hyperfibrinolysis can be associated with pOMHE.

Concordance between HokUS-10 Scoring and Transjugular Liver Biopsy for the Diagnosis of Veno-Occlusive Disease/Sinusoidal Obstruction Syndrome after Allogeneic Stem Cell Transplantation

The aim of this study was to evaluate the concordance between clinical diagnosis and pathologic findings of veno-occlusive disease/sinusoidal obstruction syndrome (VOD/SOS) in post-hematopoietic stem cell transplantation recipients and to investigate the accuracy of the HOKUS-10 score in diagnosing VOD/SOS. We included 13 patients who underwent transjugular liver biopsy for clinical suspicion of VOD/SOS and collected their clinical, laboratory, imaging, and pathologic data. Eleven patients were confirmed to have VOD/SOS by pathologic examination. The median HokUS-10 score and hepatic venous pressure gradient were 6 points (range, 0 to 10 points) and 13 mmHg (range, 7 to 24 mmHg), respectively. There was no significant difference between these scores in VOD/SOS and non-VOD/SOS cases; however, patients with lower HokUS-10 scores tended to have milder histologic features of VOD/SOS compared with severe cases. This study highlights the potential discordance between clinical diagnosis and pathologic diagnosis of VOD/SOS and emphasizes the importance of liver biopsy to optimize treatment.

Point shear-wave elastography for the diagnosis of veno-occlusive disease in children and young adults

BACKGROUND

Hepatic veno-occlusive disease or sinusoidal obstruction syndrome is a potentially life-threatening complication of hematopoietic stem cell transplantation.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the usefulness of point shear-wave elastography (pSWE) for the early diagnosis of sinusoidal obstruction syndrome (SOS) in children.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A retrospective study was carried out in 43 patients with suspected SOS assessed between March 2018 and November 2021. Diagnosis of SOS was confirmed in 28 patients based on the European Society for Blood and Marrow Transplantation diagnostic criteria. Abdominal ultrasound and pSWE of the liver were performed before and after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation on first suspicion of SOS.

RESULTS

Liver stiffness on initial suspicion was higher in patients diagnosed with SOS and these values increased compared to the pre-transplantation values. A cutoff value of 1.37 m/s was found for the diagnosis of SOS, with an area under the curve of 0.779 (95% CI 0.61-0.93).

CONCLUSION

Point shear wave elastography of the liver is a promising technique for the early diagnosis of pediatric SOS.

Diagnosis and severity criteria for sinusoidal obstruction syndrome/veno-occlusive disease in adult patients: a refined classification from the European society for blood and marrow transplantation (EBMT)

Sinusoidal obstruction syndrome, also known as veno-occlusive disease (SOS/VOD), is a potentially life-threatening complication that can develop after hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT). A new definition for diagnosis, and a severity grading system for SOS/VOD in adult patients, was reported a few years ago on behalf of the European Society for Blood and Marrow Transplantation (EBMT). The aim of this work is to update knowledge regarding diagnosis and severity assessment of SOS/VOD in adult patients, and also its pathophysiology and treatment. In particular, we now propose to refine the previous classification and distinguish probable, clinical and proven SOS/VOD at diagnosis. We also provide an accurate definition of multiorgan dysfunction (MOD) for SOS/VOD severity grading based on Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) score.

Imaging of pediatric hematopoietic stem cell transplant recipients: A COG Diagnostic Imaging Committee/SPR Oncology Committee White Paper

Imaging in hematopoietic stem cell transplantation patients is not targeted at evaluating the transplant per se. Rather, imaging is largely confined to evaluating peri-procedural and post-procedural complications. Alternatively, imaging may be performed to establish a baseline study for comparison should the patient develop certain post-procedural complications. This article looks to describe the various imaging modalities available with recommendations for which imaging study should be performed in specific complications. We also provide select imaging protocols for different indications and modalities for the purpose of establishing a set minimal standard for imaging in these complex patients.

The Importance of New EBMT Criteria on the Diagnosis of Veno-Occlusive Liver Disease in Children

BACKGROUND

Early recognition and specific therapy facilitate a favorable disease course in hepatic venous-occlusive disease (HVOD) following hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HCT). Diagnostic and classification criteria, published by the European Society for Blood and Marrow Transplantation (EBMT), better account for clinical differences in disease presentation in pediatric populations.

OBJECTIVES

To compare the course of HVOD in children before and after the implementation of new EBMT criteria.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The study retrospectively evaluates 26 HVODs in 179 children treated in a single HCT unit (Slovakia) comparing the period of 2014-2017 using the Baltimore and modified Seattle criteria with the period of 2018-2021, when new EBMT criteria were adopted.

RESULTS

No difference in HVOD incidence (11.2% vs. 14.8%, p = 0.46) and in time of diagnosis post-HCT (15.6 days vs. 15.7 days, p = 0.75) was found. With EBMT criteria we observed more frequent anicteric disease at diagnosis (50% vs. 87.5%, p = 0.04), lower serum bilirubin at diagnosis (3.4 mg/dL vs. 1.23 mg/dL, p = 0.045), and non-significant trends of shorter defibrotide treatment (21.7 days vs. 15.6 days, p = 0.73), decreased mortality (30% vs. 6.2%, p = 0.10) and shorter hospitalization (73.1 days vs. 59.6 days, p = 0.54).

CONCLUSIONS

Different time periods around the implementation of new criteria are evaluated, underling that pediatric EBMT criteria for post-transplant HVOD diagnosis appear more sensitive.

Handheld Ultrasound or Conventional Ultrasound Devices in Patients Undergoing HCT: A Validation Study

Abdominal ultrasound exams play a major role in the diagnosis of sinusoidal obstruction syndrome/veno-occlusive disease (SOS/VOD). The development of portable hand-held ultrasound devices (HHUS) has been shown to facilitate the diagnosis of many diseases, but little data on the value of HHUS in the diagnosis of SOS/VOD are available. We performed a study aimed at validating portable ultrasound (US) devices in the setting of hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HCT). Sixteen evaluable patients undergoing allogeneic HCT were studied using conventional US and HHUS during the first 3 weeks after transplant. The results obtained demonstrate that there is a close correlation between conventional and handheld ultrasound examination in the measurement of the right hepatic lobe (r = 0.912, p < 0.0001), the left hepatic lobe (r = 0.843, p < 0.0001), the portal vein (PV) (r = 0.724, p < 0.0001), and the spleen (r = 0.983, p < 0.0001) based on Pearson’s correlation. The same data, analyzed through Lin’s concordance correlation coefficient, evidenced a substantial level of agreement in the comparison of the spleen and right hepatic lobe, while a lower grade of agreement in the measurement of the portal vein and left hepatic lobe. Moreover, there was good agreement between results obtained by the two types of ultrasound devices in assessing ascites (p < 0.0001), gallbladder thickening (p < 0.0001), and the direction of PV flow (p < 0.0001). HHUS device allows the study of HokUs-10 parameters with an excellent agreement with conventional US, and may contribute to SOS/VOD diagnosis.

Usefulness of ultrasonography and elastography in diagnosing oxaliplatin-induced sinusoidal obstruction syndrome

Background

Sinusoidal obstruction syndrome (SOS) refers to liver injury caused by hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) and anticancer drugs including oxaliplatin. Increased splenic volume (SV) on computed tomography (CT) indicates oxaliplatin-induced SOS. Similarly, ultrasonography and liver stiffness measurement (LSM) by shear-wave elastography (SWE) can help diagnose SOS after HSCT; however, their usefulness for diagnosing oxaliplatin-induced SOS remains unclear. We investigated the usefulness of the Hokkaido ultrasonography-based scoring system with 10 ultrasonographic parameters (HokUS-10) and SWE in diagnosing oxaliplatin-induced SOS early.

Methods

In this prospective observational study, ultrasonography and SWE were performed before and at 2, 4, and 6 months after oxaliplatin-based chemotherapy. HokUS-10 was used for assessment. CT volumetry of the SV was performed in clinical practice, and an SV increase ≥ 30% was considered the diagnostic indicator of oxaliplatin-induced SOS. We assessed whether HokUS-10 and SWE can lead to an early detection of oxaliplatin-induced SOS before an increased SV on CT.

Results

Of the 30 enrolled patients with gastrointestinal cancers, 12 (40.0%) with an SV increase  ≥ 30% on CT were diagnosed with SOS. The HokUS-10 score was not correlated with an SV increase ≥ 30% (r = 0.18). The change in rate of three HokUS-10 parameters were correlated with an SV increase ≥ 30% (r = 0.32–0.41). The change in rate of LSM by SWE was correlated with an SV increase  ≥ 30% (r = 0.40).

Conclusions

The usefulness of HokUS-10 score was not demonstrated; however, some HokUS-10 parameters and SWE could be useful for the early diagnosis of oxaliplatin-induced SOS.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s10147-022-02235-4.

Preliminary Report for the Development of a Multiparameter Protocol for the Identification of Sinusoidal Obstruction Syndrome including Abdominal Ultrasound before and after Allogeneic Stem Cell Transplantation

Sinusoidal obstruction syndrome (SOS) is a rare complication after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (alloHSCT) caused by endothelial dysfunction. Previous definitions and diagnostic criteria for the presence of SOS include bilirubinemia, hepatomegaly and weight gain, but histological evaluation is still the only way to prove the diagnosis of SOS. However, biopsy remains an invasive technique and is therefore undesirable in the alloHSCT scenario. Hence, a non-invasive diagnostic strategy is critical. Besides thorough clinical assessment and laboratory values, ultrasound examination remains part of the diagnostic workflow in clinical routine. Previous studies defined sonographic abnormalities, which are associated with the occurrence of SOS, but a standardized protocol to perform reliable abdominal ultrasound has not been finally defined. In this study, we evaluated a multi-parameter protocol including laboratory values as well as ultrasound examination pre- and post-alloHSCT. The application of this protocol was feasible in clinical practice and achieved a high inter- and intra-rater reliability. In our population, no case of SOS was identifiable and, in line with previous studies, no changes known to be associated with SOS were detected by ultrasound examination in our cohort. Additionally, we investigated subgroups of patients partly fulfilling SOS diagnostic criteria analyzing correlations between the fulfilled criteria and aberrances in ultrasound measurements pre- and post-alloHSCT. Although statistical examination may be limited by a small sample size and missing SOS cases, hyperbilirubinemia, thrombocytopenia and weight gain showed only a coincidence with selected, enlarged liver dimensions in few patients. This may underline the fact that hepatomegaly occurs as an unspecific finding after alloHSCT. Our protocol, including the ultrasound examination pre- and post-alloHSCT and laboratory parameters, may help to rule out SOS early, but validation in a greater population and different transplantation centers is required to warrant broader appliance. Nevertheless, we aim to contribute to an elaborate and standardized work-flow in peri-alloHSCT patient care.

Imaging features of hepatic sinusoidal obstruction syndrome or veno-occlusive disease in children

Hepatic sinusoidal obstruction syndrome, also known as veno-occlusive disease, can occur as a complication of myeloablative chemotherapy, as a result of low-intensity chemotherapy-related liver toxicity or radiotherapy of the liver. Symptoms of sinusoidal obstruction syndrome can range from asymptomatic to liver dysfunction or severe disease with life-threatening acute multi-organ failure. Imaging features can suggest or support this clinical diagnosis. Familiarity with the imaging spectrum of sinusoidal obstruction syndrome is therefore important for both radiologists and clinical oncologists. Here, multi-modality radiologic appearances of sinusoidal obstruction syndrome in pediatric patients are illustrated, including outcome after follow-up.

Assessment of liver stiffness measurement and ultrasound findings change during inotuzumab ozogamicin cycles for relapsed or refractory acute lymphoblastic leukemia

In adult patients, acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is a rare hematological cancer with a cure rate below 50% and frequent relapses. With traditional therapies, patients with relapsed or refractory (R/R) ALL have a survival that may be measured in months; in these patients, inotuzumab ozogamicin (IO) is an effective therapy. IO was linked to increased risk of veno-occlusive disease/sinusoid obstruction syndrome (VOD/SOS), liver injury, and various grade of liver-related complications during clinical trials and real-life settings; however, hepatologic monitoring protocol is not established in this population. In our institution, 21 patients who received IO (median of 6 doses of IO administered) for R/R ALL were prospectively followed for hepatologic surveillance, including clinical evaluation, ultrasonography, and liver stiffness measurement (LSM) biochemistry. After a median follow-up of 17.2 months, two SOS events were reported (both after allogeneic transplant) as IO potentially related clinically relevant adverse event. Mild alterations were reported in almost the totality of patients and moderate-severe liver biochemical alterations in a quarter of patients. Within biochemicals value, AST and ALP showed an augment related to IO administration. LSM linearly augmented for each IO course administered. Baseline LSM was related to liver-related changes, especially with the severity of portal hypertension (PH)-related complications. Pre-transplant LSM was higher in patients receiving IO when compared with a control cohort. PH-related complications were discovered in nearly 77% of patients, with clinically significant PH occurrence and development of ascites in 38% and 14%, respectively. This prospective experience constitutes the rationale to design a hepatologic monitoring program in patients receiving IO. LSM may be of pivotal importance in this program, constituting a rapid and effective screening that quantitatively correlates with liver alterations.

Grayscale and Spectral Doppler Ultrasound in the Diagnosis of Hepatic Veno-occlusive Disease/Sinusoidal Obstruction Syndrome After Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation in Children

The aim of this study is to determine the ultrasound criteria in the diagnosis of hepatic veno-occlusive disease/sinusoidal obstruction syndrome (VOD/SOS) after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) in children. A total of 158 pediatric patients underwent HSCT between January 2016 and January 2018. In all, 71 patients with clinically suspicious hepatic VOD/SOS have been followed with serial ultrasound examinations. Hepatomegaly, gallbladder wall thickening, ascites, pleural effusion, reverse flow in the portal vein, and diameter and peak systolic velocity of the hepatic artery were evaluated. Patients were divided into 2 groups retrospectively: VOD/SOS and non-VOD/SOS. The predictive value of all findings was determined, respectively. Gallbladder wall thickening, increase of diameter and peak systolic velocity of the hepatic artery, and the presence of ascites are highly predictive for VOD/SOS (P=0.001 and < 0.05). The reversed portal venous flow was developed in 3 patients in the VOD/SOS group, no significant difference was found between the 2 groups (P>0.05). Hepatomegaly was recorded in 29 (70.7%) patients in the VOD/SOS group, 13 of them was presented related to a primary disease. Pleural effusion is not associated with the diagnosis of VOD/SOS (P>0.05). Gallbladder wall edema, an increase of peak systolic velocity of the hepatic artery, and the presence of ascites are highly related to the diagnosis of VOD/SOS in children after HSCT. Ultrasound findings must be correlated with clinical criteria.

Elastography improves accuracy of early hepato-biliary complications diagnosis after allogeneic stem cell transplantation

Significant morbidity and mortality have been associated with liver complications after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT). Causes and consequences of these hepato-biliary complications are various and might be life-threatening. A high misdiagnosis rate has been reported because of a weak correlation between clinical, laboratory and imaging data. Liver elastography, a liver stiffness measure, is able to assess liver fibrosis and portal hypertension in most liver diseases, but data after allo-HSCT are scarce. Our aim was to determine the interest of sequential liver stiffness measurements for the diagnosis of early hepatic complications after allo-HSCT. Over a 2-year time period, 161 consecutive adult patients were included and 146 were analyzed. Ultrasonography and elastography measurements were performed before transplantation, at day+7 and day+14 by three different experienced radiologists unaware of the patients’ clinical status. Eightyone (55%) patients had liver involvements within the first 100 days after allo-HSCT. Baseline elastography was not predictive for the occurrence of overall liver abnormalities. A significant increase in two-dimensional real-time shearwave elastography (2D-SWE) was found in patients with sinusoidal obstruction syndrome (SOS). Fifteen patients (10%) fulfilled European Society for Blood and Marrow Transplantation (EBMT) score criteria and twelve (8%) reached Baltimore criteria for SOS diagnosis, but only six (4%) had a confirmed SOS. 2D-SWE at day+14 allowed early detection of SOS (AUROC=0.84, P=0.004) and improved sensibility (75%), specificity (99%) and positive predictive value (60%) over the Seattle, Baltimore or EBMT scores. A 2D-SWE measurement above 8.1 kPa at day+14 after allo-HSCT seems a promising, non-invasive, and reproducible tool for early and accurate diagnosis of SOS.

Refined ultrasonographic criteria for sinusoidal obstruction syndrome after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation

Hepatic sinusoidal obstruction syndrome (SOS)/veno-occlusive disease is a life-threatening complication after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). We previously reported the efficacy of the Hokkaido Ultrasonography (US)-based scoring system (HokUS-10) for US findings. To establish easier-to-use criteria, we retrospectively evaluated US findings from 441 patients, including 30 patients with SOS using the HokUS-10 scoring system. Using logistic regression analysis, we established the novel diagnostic criteria HokUS-6. In the presence of ascites, US diagnosis was made in the presence of two of the following 6 parameters: moderate amount of ascites, the appearance of a paraumbilical vein blood flow signal, gallbladder wall thickening, portal vein dilatation, portal vein velocity decrease, and hepatic artery resistive index increase. The AUC, sensitivity, and specificity of HokUS-6 were 0.974 (95% confidence interval 0.962-0.990), 95.2%, and 96.9%, respectively. The scores were significantly higher in patients with severe SOS than in those with non-severe SOS (p = 0.013). Furthermore, the scores before HSCT were significantly higher in patients who developed SOS than in controls (p = 0.001). The HokUS-6 is an easy and useful way to diagnose and identify the risk of SOS.

[Potential of ultrasound in allogeneic stem cell transplantation and transplant-related complications]

Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HCT) is a complex therapeutic procedure causing significant morbidity and mortality, including the gastrointestinal tract. Early diagnosis and treatment of HCT-associated complications are, therefore, of utmost importance to improve overall HCT outcome. Sonography can be a powerful diagnostic tool and is easily accessible at the bedside of HCT patients. In the hands of a sonography-experienced physician, it allows for instant diagnosis and can also rule out several important transplant-associated complications. Here we review available evidence on the diagnostic and clinical value of ultrasound prior, during and after HCT.

Reliability of an ultrasonographical scoring system for diagnosis of sinusoidal obstruction syndrome/veno-occlusive disease in patients with hematopoietic stem cell transplantation

PURPOSE

Sinusoidal obstruction syndrome (SOS)/hepatic veno-occlusive disease (VOD) is a fatal complication after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. We previously reported the usefulness of an ultrasonographical (US) scoring system, the Hokkaido US-based scoring system consisting of ten parameters (HokUS-10): (1) hepatomegaly in the left lobe and (2) right lobe, (3) dilatation of the main portal vein (PV), (4) hepatofugal flow in the main PV, (5) decreased velocity of the PV, (6) dilatation of the para-umbilical vein (PUV), (7) appearance of blood flow signal in the PUV, (8) gallbladder (GB) wall thickening, (9) ascites, and (10) increased resistive index of the hepatic artery, for the diagnosis of SOS/VOD. However, the reliability of this system among operators remains elusive. Therefore, we prospectively evaluated the reliability of HokUS-10.

METHODS

Twenty-four healthy volunteers and 40 patients with liver dysfunction were enrolled. Inter- and intra-operator reliabilities were analyzed using three sonographers.

RESULTS

The median concordance rate of HokUS-10 among three sonographers and intra-operator in 24 volunteers was 92% (95% CI: 73-98%) and 98% (95% CI: 92-100%), respectively. In all 64 cases, in terms of the reliability between two sonographers for three representative US parameters (amount of ascites, GB wall thickening, and appearance of PUV blood flow signal), the median concordance rate was more than 98% (95% CI: 86-106%).

CONCLUSION

The inter- and intra-reliabilities of HokUS-10 were excellent. Thus, US might be a reliable tool for SOS/VOD diagnosis.

Sinusoidal obstruction syndrome

Sinusoidal obstruction syndrome (SOS), previously known as veno-occlusive disease, is characterized by concentric and non-thrombotic obstruction of the sinusoid and central vein lumen with no identified primitive or thrombotic hepatic vein lesions. The initial lesion is a result of endothelial denudation, corresponding to the migration of damaged sinusoidal cells to the central veins of the hepatic lobules, leading to sinusoidal and veno-occlusive congestive obstruction. SOS may be associated with other lesions such as centrilobular perisinusoidal fibrosis, peliosis, or nodular regenerative hyperplasia. The first cases of SOS were documented in 1920 in South Africa, after ingestion of food sources contaminated by pyrrolizidine alkaloids. SOS is a well-known complication of hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). Numerous toxins and drugs have been associated with SOS, mainly chemotherapies and immunosuppressive therapies, as well as total body or liver irradiation and ABO mismatch platelet transfusion. The pathogenesis of this entity remains unknown.

Pathologic Hepatic Contrast-Enhanced Ultrasound Pattern in Patients Undergoing Allogeneic Stem Cell Transplantation

Veno-occlusive disease (VOD) is a severe complication of allogeneic stem cell transplantation (allo-SCT). Its diagnosis is difficult, and ultrasound (US) has not been proven to be of additional diagnostic value. In the work described here, we prospectively analyzed the hepatic contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) pattern before and after allo-SCT and correlated these results with the pre-allo-SCT VOD risk factors, clinical VOD findings and conventional US findings. Thirty consecutive patients who underwent allo-SCT and had at least one VOD risk factor were studied. B-Mode US and CEUS were longitudinally performed at defined time points before and after allo-SCT. The 1-min hepatic enhancement (OMHE) in CEUS was standardized to splenic enhancement and quantified using optical density (OD) measurement software. A hypo-OMHE was arbitrarily defined as pathologic (pOMHE) if the OD of the liver was less than 90% compared with the mean splenic OD. Twenty-one patients (70%) had a pOMHE, the occurrence of which peaked at day 10 after allo-SCT. The number of pre-treatment VOD risk factors significantly differed between the pathologic and non-pathologic OD groups. Together, patients undergoing allo-SCT frequently exhibit a pathologic hepatic CEUS pattern, which can be quantified by OD measurement and is suggestive of pre-clinical VOD or other hepatic pathologies.

Imaging in Hepatic Veno-Occlusive Disease/Sinusoidal Obstruction Syndrome

Veno-occlusive disease/sinusoidal obstruction syndrome (VOD/SOS) is a potentially life-threatening complication of hematopoietic cell transplantation. Early diagnosis and, subsequently, earlier intervention have been shown to be beneficial to clinical outcomes. Diagnostic criteria from the European Society for Blood and Marrow Transplantation include recommendations on the use of imaging for diagnosis. This review discusses evidence on the use of imaging in the management of VOD/SOS and how imaging biomarkers can contribute to earlier diagnosis/treatment.

Ultrasound in Hepatic Veno-occlusive Disease (HVOD) after Pediatric Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation (HSCT): Comparison of Diagnostic Criteria Including the Pediatric Criteria of European Society for Blood and Marrow Transplantation (EBMT)

The European Society for Blood and Marrow Transplantation (EBMT) has recently announced new diagnostic criteria for pediatric hepatic veno-occlusive disease (HVOD) after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). We retrospectively inspected 97 ultrasound exams of 60 pediatric HSCT patients, and compared its diagnostic value using the Baltimore, Seattle and pediatric EBMT criteria. Nine of the ten patients who were diagnosed as HVOD only in the EBMT criteria had severe or very severe HVOD. In the Seattle and EBMT criteria, portal vein velocity, peak systolic velocity and resistance index of hepatic artery, gallbladder wall thickening and ascites were statistically significant. No ultrasound variable showed significant association in the Baltimore criteria. All patients with portal vein velocity below 10 cm/s were in higher EBMT grade. A scoring system was developed, to evaluate the overall relationship of the ultrasound findings with the diagnosis of HVOD, showing fair (0.768 and 0.733) AUC in the ROC curve of EBMT and Seattle criteria.

Diagnosis and Treatment of VOD/SOS After Allogeneic Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation

Hepatic veno-occlusive disease (VOD) or sinusoidal obstruction syndrome (SOS) is a rare complication characterized by hepatomegaly, right-upper quadrant pain, jaundice, and ascites, occurring after high-dose chemotherapy, hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) and, less commonly, other conditions. We review pathogenesis, clinical appearance and diagnostic criteria, risk factors, prophylaxis, and treatment of the VOD occurring post-HSCT. The injury of the sinusoidal endothelial cells with loss of wall integrity and sinusoidal obstruction is the basis of development of postsinusoidal portal hypertension responsible for clinical syndrome. Risk factors associated with the onset of VOD and diagnostic tools have been recently updated both in the pediatric and adult settings and here are reported. Treatment includes supportive care, intensive management, and specific drug therapy with defibrotide. Because of its severity, particularly in VOD with associated multiorgan disease, prophylaxis approaches are under investigation. During the last years, decreased mortality associated to VOD/SOS has been reported being it attributable to a better intensive and multidisciplinary approach.

Modified diagnostic criteria, grading classification and newly elucidated pathophysiology of hepatic SOS/VOD after haematopoietic cell transplantation

Sinusoidal obstruction syndrome (SOS), previously known as hepatic veno-occlusive disease (VOD), remains a multi-organ system complication following haematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT). When SOS/VOD is accompanied by multi-organ dysfunction, overall mortality rates remain >80%. However, the definitions related to the diagnosis and grading of SOS/VOD after HCT are almost 25 years old and require new and contemporary modifications. Importantly, the pathophysiology of SOS/VOD, including the contribution of dysregulated inflammatory and coagulation cascades as well as the critical importance of liver and vascular derived endothelial dysfunction, have been elucidated. Here we summarise new information on pathogenesis of SOS/VOD; identify modifiable and unmodifiable risk factors for disease development; propose novel, contemporary and panel opinion-based diagnostic criteria and an innovative organ-based method of SOS/VOD grading classification; and review current approaches for prophylaxis and treatment of SOS/VOD. This review will hopefully illuminate pathways responsible for drug-induced liver injury and manifestations of disease, sharpen awareness of risk for disease development and enhance the timely and correct diagnosis of SOS/VOD post-HCT.

Diagnosis, grading, and treatment recommendations for children, adolescents, and young adults with sinusoidal obstructive syndrome: an international expert position statement

Sinusoidal obstructive syndrome, also known as hepatic veno-occlusive disease, is a potentially life-threatening complication that occurs in children undergoing haemopoietic stem-cell transplantation (HSCT). Differences in the incidence of genetic predisposition and clinical presentation of sinusoidal obstructive syndrome between children and adults have rendered the historical Baltimore and Seattle diagnostic criteria insufficient for children. In 2017, the European Society for Blood and Marrow Transplantation (EBMT) proposed the first paediatric diagnostic and severity grading guidelines for sinusoidal obstructive syndrome, intended for implementation across European centres. However, universally accepted paediatric criteria are needed to ensure prompt diagnosis, definitive treatment, and improved outcomes for children, adolescents, and young adults with sinusoidal obstructive syndrome, and to facilitate international clinical research collaboration. We convened an international panel of multidisciplinary experts including physicians with expertise in HSCT, paediatric intensive care, nephrology, hepatology, radiology, pathology, and transfusion medicine; HSCT advanced-practice providers and medical trainees; pharmacists; and translational and basic science researchers from the Pediatric Acute Lung Injury and Sepsis Investigators Network, the EBMT, the Pediatric Blood and Marrow Transplant Consortia, and several other institutions with extensive experience in sinusoidal obstructive syndrome. Panellists convened at The University of Texas, MD Anderson Cancer Center (Houston, TX, USA) in February, 2019, to evaluate the available evidence. In this expert position statement paper, we provide consensus recommendations for the international implementation of guidelines for the diagnosis, severity grading, and treatment of sinusoidal obstructive syndrome among children, adolescents, and young adults. We endorse universal adoption of paediatric diagnostic guidelines for sinusoidal obstruction syndrome as proposed by the EBMT, and provide implementation guidance for standardisation across centres; we have further proposed adjunctive use of age-appropriate organ-specific toxicity criteria for severity grading and provided prophylaxis and treatment considerations among children and adolescent and young adult patients. Key recommendations include: (1) liver biopsy, portal venous wedge pressure, and reversal of portal venous flow on Doppler ultrasonography should not be used for the routine diagnosis of sinusoidal obstructive syndrome in children, adolescents, and young adults; (2) platelet refractoriness can be defined as a corrected count increment of less than 5000-7500 following at least two sequential ABO-compatible fresh platelet transfusions; (3) hepatomegaly is best defined as an absolute increase of at least 1 cm in liver length at the midclavicular line; and if a baseline measurement is not available, hepatomegaly can be defined as greater than 2 SDs above normal for age; and (4) the presence and volume of ascites can be categorised as mild (minimal fluid by liver, spleen, or pelvis), moderate (<1 cm fluid), or severe (fluid in all three regions with >1 cm fluid in at least two regions).

Noninvasive imaging diagnosis of sinusoidal obstruction syndrome: a pictorial review

Sinusoidal obstruction syndrome (SOS) is a rare liver disorder due to hepatic vascular injury. Its rapid and accurate diagnosis is crucial for patient survival. SOS is often established clinically, based on Baltimore, modified Seattle, or European Society for Blood and Marrow Transplantation (EBMT) criteria. Unfortunately, such criteria are not highly specificity and fail to provide a timely, reliable differential diagnosis. The use of noninvasive imaging techniques, such as ultrasound (US), computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography (FDG-PET/CT), has recently grown in this setting, some key imaging features offering diagnostic improvement. This review provides a synopsis of current noninvasive imaging techniques used for this purpose, summarizing accurate and reliable diagnostic features of SOS.

Role of imaging techniques in liver veno-occlusive disease diagnosis: recent advances and literature review

Veno-occlusive-disease (VOD), known also as sinusoidal-obstruction-syndrome (SOS), is one of the main complications of haematopoietic stem cell transplantation and is related to the treatment with pyrrolizidine alkaloids or other toxic agents (chemotherapy for liver-metastasis). Clinical diagnosis using the recent criteria from the European Society for Blood and Marrow Transplantation, is the reference for VOD/SOS diagnosis. However, increasing evidence suggests the emerging role of several imaging methods that could help the clinician in VOD/SOS assessment. Areas covered: This review evaluates the current literature on the various imaging techniques used in VOD/SOS diagnosis in several clinical scenarios. Literature searches were performed using several keywords on MEDLINE/Ovid/In-Process/Cochrane Library/EMBASE and PubMed up to July 2018. Expert commentary: Hepatic-gradient-measurement (HVPG) and contextual transjugular-liver-biopsy are invasive and should always be considered in unclear cases. The main studies revolve around ultrasound with Doppler evaluation, identifying numerous findings suggestive of VOD/SOS. However, their accuracy and validation are still suboptimal and controversial. CT-Scan and MRI have shown encouraging data in other contexts in which VOD/SOS can develop, but studies on the post-HSCT patient are lacking. Elastography techniques measuring liver stiffness (LSM) represent the most recent and promising approach for an accurate and early diagnosis of VOD/SOS. In our view, a multidisciplinary approach to the VOD/SOS diagnosis should be highly encouraged.

Diagnostic value/performance of radiological liver imaging during chemoterapy for gastrointestinal malignancy: a critical review

This article reviews the main toxic effect, complications and relative imaging findings of the liver that may appear during the oncologic follow up among patients affected by gastrointestinal malignancy. Awareness of the causative chemotherapeutic agent and regimens, pathophysiology and relative characteristic imaging findings of hepatic injuries is critical in order to obtain an accurate diagnosis especially when these parenchymal lesions are focal. An accurate synergic radiological diagnosis with Computed Tomography (CT) and Magnetic Resonance (MR) techniques may induce a potential termination of ineffective/toxic chemotherapy during early phases of treatment, changing the therapeutic plan in order to avoid first unnecessary liver biopsy and then invasive treatment as hepatic resection if not required.

[Hepatobiliary complications following allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation: Recommendations of the Francophone Society of Bone Marrow transplantation and cellular Therapy (SFGM-TC)]

Hepatobiliary complications are frequent in the context of allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (allo-HCT) and contribute largely to the morbidity and mortality after transplantation. Within the framework of the ninth workshops of practice harmonization of the Francophone Society of Bone Marrow Transplantation and Cellular Therapy (SFGM-TC) held in Lille in September 2018, diagnostic approaches and treatments of hepatobiliary dysfunctions prior to and following transplantation were reviewed according to the analysis of published studies.

Liver Stiffness Measurement Allows Early Diagnosis of Veno-Occlusive Disease/Sinusoidal Obstruction Syndrome in Adult Patients Who Undergo Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation: Results from a Monocentric Prospective Study

Veno-occlusive disease (VOD), also known as sinusoidal obstruction syndrome (SOS), is a life-threatening complication affecting patients undergoing hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). The survival rate is higher when specific therapy is initiated early; thus, improving early, noninvasive diagnosis of VOD/SOS is an important need. In an adult population undergoing HSCT, we aimed to assess the role of liver stiffness measurement (LSM), evaluated by transient elastography (TE), for diagnosing VOD/SOS. Between April 2016 and March 2018, 78 consecutive adult patients with indications for allogeneic HSCT were prospectively included. LSM was performed before HSCT and at days +9/10, +15/17, and +22/24 post-HSCT. New European Society for Blood and Marrow Transplantation criteria were used to establish VOD/SOS diagnosis. Four patients developed VOD/SOS (5.1%) during the study period, with a median time of +17 days post-HSCT. A sudden increase in LSM compared with previously assessed values and pre-HSCT values, was seen in all patients who developed VOD/SOS. LSM increases occurred from 2 to 12 days before clinical SOS/VOD appearance. The VOD/SOS diagnostic performance of increased LSM over pre-HSCT assessment showed an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.997 (sensitivity 75%; specificity 98.7%). LSM gradually decreased following successful VOD/SOS-specific treatment. Interestingly, LSM values did not increase significantly in patients experiencing hepatobiliary complications (according to the Common Terminology Criteria) other than VOD/SOS. LSM by TE can be considered a promising method to perform an early, preclinical diagnosis and follow-up of VOD/SOS.

Imaging manifestations of hepatic sinusoidal obstruction syndrome

Hepatic sinusoidal obstruction syndrome (HSOS), previously known as hepatic veno-occlusive disease, is a kind of vascular disorder of the liver. HSOS is caused by toxic destruction of hepatic sinusoidal endothelial cells. Major etiologies of HSOS include hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, oxaliplatin-containing chemotherapy, intake of pyrrolizidine alkaloid-containing herbal remedies, etc. There have been many studies on the imaging manifestations of HSOS in recent years. This paper summarizes the imaging manifestations of HSOS by reviewing the latest literature and our work.

New Ultrasound Techniques Challenge the Diagnosis of Sinusoidal Obstruction Syndrome

Sinusoidal obstruction syndrome, also known as veno-occlusive disease (SOS/VOD), is a potentially life-threatening complication that can develop after hematopoietic cell transplantation. Clinically, SOS/VOD is characterized by hepatomegaly, right upper quadrant pain, jaundice and ascites, most often occurring within the first 3 wk after hematopoietic cell transplantation. Early therapeutic intervention is pivotal for survival in SOS/VOD. Thus, a rapid and reliable diagnosis has to be made. Diagnosis of SOS/VOD is based on clinical criteria, such as the Seattle, Baltimore or recently issued European Society for Blood and Marrow Transplantation criteria, to which hemodynamic and/or ultrasound evidence of SOS were added for the first time. However, to rule out major differential diagnoses and to verify the diagnosis, a reliable imaging method is needed. Ultrasound techniques have been proposed in SOS/VOD. Nevertheless, the sensitivity and specificity of transabdominal ultrasound and Doppler techniques need to be improved. Innovative ultrasound methods such as a combination of Doppler ultrasound with shear wave elastography and contrast-enhanced ultrasound techniques should be evaluated for diagnosis and follow-up of SOS/VOD. The goals of this review are to discuss currently available ultrasound techniques and to identify areas for future studies in SOS/VOD.

Novel Ultrasonographic Scoring System of Sinusoidal Obstruction Syndrome after Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation

Sinusoidal obstruction syndrome (SOS)/hepatic veno-occlusive disease (VOD) is a well-documented complication after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). Transabdominal ultrasonography (US) enables the visualization of blood flow abnormalities and is therefore useful for the diagnosis of SOS/VOD. We herein prospectively evaluated accuracy of a novel US diagnostic scoring system of SOS/VOD based on US findings. We carried out US in 106 patients on day 14 and when SOS/VOD was suspected after allogeneic HSCT. Among 106 patients, 10 patients (9.4%) were diagnosed as SOS/VOD by Baltimore or Seattle criteria. According to univariate analysis of 17 US findings (US-17 screening), we established a novel scoring system (HokUS-10) consisting of 10 parameters, such as gallbladder wall thickening, ascites, and blood flow signal in the paraumbilical vein. The sensitivity and specificity were 100% and 95.8%, respectively. Diagnostic performance of the HokUS-10 was significantly better than US-17 screening. In 4 of 10 patients US detection of SOS/VOD preceded to clinical diagnosis. The HokUS-10 scoring system is useful in the diagnosis of SOS/VOD; however, our results should be validated in other cohorts.

Consensus Report by Pediatric Acute Lung Injury and Sepsis Investigators and Pediatric Blood and Marrow Transplantation Consortium Joint Working Committees: Supportive Care Guidelines for Management of Veno-Occlusive Disease in Children and Adolescents, Part 1: Focus on Investigations, Prophylaxis, and Specific Treatment

Veno-occlusive disease (VOD) is a common and potentially fatal complication in children undergoing hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT). It occurs in about one-third of all patients undergoing transplantation and is fatal in 50% of patients with severe disease. Early intervention and specific treatment with defibrotide are associated with improved outcomes. However, there is a lack of supportive care guidelines for management of the multiorgan dysfunction seen in most cases. There is high variability in the management of VOD, which may contribute to the increased morbidity and mortality. Although there is ample research in the specific treatment of VOD, there is paucity of literature regarding the management of ascites, transfusions requirements, fluids and electrolyte dysfunction, delirium, and investigations in children with VOD. The joint working committees of the Pediatric Acute Lung Injury and Sepsis Investigators and the Pediatric Blood and Marrow Transplantation Consortium collaborated to develop a series of evidence-based supportive care guidelines for management of VOD. The quality of evidence was rated and recommendations were made using Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation criteria. This manuscript is part 1 of the series and focuses on the need to develop these guidelines; methodology used to establish the guidelines; and investigations needed for diagnosis, prophylaxis, and treatment of VOD in children.

The Diagnostic Value of Hepatic Arterial Velocity in Venoocclusive Disease After Pediatric Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation

The aim of this study was to determine usefulness of measurements of maximal systolic velocity of the hepatic artery with Doppler ultrasonography in the diagnosis of venoocclusive disease (VOD) after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. We prospectively obtained 5 sonograms per patient: pretransplantation, day +1, +7, +14, and +28 on 36 nonconsecutive children who underwent hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. We examined the hepatic artery, the portal, hepatic and splenic veins, the thickness of the gallbladder wall, the presence of ascites, and the liver and spleen size. The diagnosis of VOD was based on clinical and laboratory data. Patients were divided into 2 groups: those with VOD (n=18) and those without VOD (n=18). The variance of 2 groups was analyzed. Vmax of the hepatic artery had a strong correlation with clinical VOD diagnosis (P<0.001). There was no statistically significant difference in the other Doppler parameters. The results of our study showed that the measurement of Vmax of the hepatic artery can provide important support in the diagnosis of VOD and can be useful in the follow-up of treatment response.

Hepatic Lesions that Mimic Metastasis on Radiological Imaging during Chemotherapy for Gastrointestinal Malignancy: Recent Updates

During chemotherapy in patients with gastrointestinal malignancy, the hepatic lesions may occur as chemotherapy-induced lesions or tumor-associated lesions, with exceptions for infectious conditions and other incidentalomas. Focal hepatic lesions arising from chemotherapy-induced hepatopathies (such as chemotherapy-induced sinusoidal injury and steatosis) and tumor-associated eosinophilic abscess should be considered a mimicker of metastasis in patients with gastrointestinal malignancy. Accumulating evidence suggests that chemotherapy for gastrointestinal malignancy in the liver has roles in both the therapeutic effects for hepatic metastasis and injury to the non-tumor bearing hepatic parenchyma. In this article, we reviewed the updated concept of chemotherapy-induced hepatopathies and tumor-associated eosinophilic abscess in the liver, focusing on the pathological and radiological findings. Awareness of the causative chemo-agent, pathophysiology, and characteristic imaging findings of these mimickers is critical for accurate diagnosis and avoidance of unnecessary exposure of the patient to invasive tissue-based diagnosis and operations.

Role of Ultrasound in Complications of Hematopoetic Stem Cell Transplantation

Hematopoetic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) is an established therapeutic option for both malignant and nonmalignant indications, whose incidence has continued to increase in recent years. Because of its lower cost and lack of radiation exposure, ultrasound examination is often the first-line imaging modality in evaluating patients both before and after HSCT. It is important for radiologists to be aware of sonographic manifestations of the complications that may arise from HSCT. In this study, we will review the basics of HSCT, the role of imaging, and ultrasound examination findings in common and uncommon complications arising from HSCT.

Sonographic Appearance of the Gallbladder in the Allogeneic Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplant Population

OBJECTIVES

To determine whether gallbladder sonographic findings in hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) transplant patients can distinguish among hepatobiliary complications of HSC transplants (graft-versus-host disease [GVHD] and veno-occlusive disease) and biliary events (cholecystitis, cholangitis, and choledocholithiasis).

METHODS

All HSC transplant patients who underwent gallbladder sonography from 2009 through 2012 were identified. Complications and sonographic findings were recorded.

RESULTS

Of 124 patients, 66 (53.2%) had an event: 33 (50.0%) had GVHD; 22 (33.3%) had veno-occlusive disease; 6 (9.0%) had a biliary event; 4 (6.0%) had veno-occlusive disease and GVHD; and 1 (1.5%) had veno-occlusive disease and a biliary event. Of all patients, 115 (92.7%) had 1 or more sonographic findings in the gallbladder, with sludge being most common in all groups. In patients with veno-occlusive disease, the second and third most common findings were pericholecystic fluid and wall thickening. In patients with GVHD, distension was the second most common. Patients with biliary events all had distension, and half had pericholecystic fluid. Patients with veno-occlusive disease were significantly more likely to have wall thickening than those with GVHD or no event (77.2% versus 36.3%; P= .005; and 77.2% versus 37.9%; P= .002) and more likely to have pericholecystic fluid than patients with GVHD (95.5% versus 45.5%; P = .0001), a biliary event (95.5% versus 50%; P = .02), or no event (95.5% versus 29.3%; P = .0001). The positive predictive value of any finding was low for all groups because findings were common in patients with no event.

CONCLUSIONS

Sonographic abnormalities of the gallbladder after HSC transplants are common in patients with and without HSC transplant complications and in those with biliary events. No sonographic finding is useful to distinguish among complications in HSC transplant patients.

Revised diagnosis and severity criteria for sinusoidal obstruction syndrome/veno-occlusive disease in adult patients: a new classification from the European Society for Blood and Marrow Transplantation

Sinusoidal obstruction syndrome, also known as veno-occlusive disease (SOS/VOD), is a potentially life threatening complication that can develop after hematopoietic cell transplantation. Although SOS/VOD progressively resolves within a few weeks in most patients, the most severe forms result in multi-organ dysfunction and are associated with a high mortality rate (>80%). Therefore, careful attention must be paid to allow an early detection of SOS/VOD, particularly as drugs have now proven to be effective and licensed for its treatment. Unfortunately, current criteria lack sensitivity and specificity, making early identification and severity assessment of SOS/VOD difficult. The aim of this work is to propose a new definition for diagnosis, and a severity-grading system for SOS/VOD in adult patients, on behalf of the European Society for Blood and Marrow Transplantation.

Chemotherapy induced liver abnormalities: an imaging perspective

Treating patients undergoing chemotherapy who display findings of liver toxicity, requires a solid understanding of these medications. It is important for any clinician to have an index of suspicion for liver toxicity and be able to recognize it, even on imaging. Cancer chemotherapy has evolved, and newer medications that target cell biology have a different pattern of liver toxicity and may differ from the more traditional cytotoxic agents. There are several hepatic conditions that can result and keen clinical as well as radiographic recognition are paramount. Conditions such as sinusoidal obstructive syndrome, steatosis, and pseudocirrhosis are more commonly associated with chemotherapy. These conditions can display clinical signs of acute hepatitis, liver cirrhosis, and even liver failure. It is important to anticipate and recognize these adverse reactions and thus appropriate clinical action can be taken. Often times, patients with these liver manifestations can be managed with supportive therapies, and liver toxicity may resolve after discontinuation of chemotherapy.

Hepatic sinusoidal obstruction syndrome during chemotherapy for childhood medulloblastoma: report of a case and review of the literature

Hepatic sinusoidal obstruction syndrome (HSOS), also known as veno-occlusive disease, is a well-recognized toxic complication after autologous and allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplant, during treatment of Wilms tumor and rhabdomyosarcoma associated with actinomycin-D, and during acute lymphoblastic leukemia therapy due to oral 6-thioguanine. However, its occurrence in the context of chemotherapy regimens for other childhood malignancies is rare. We report a 5-year-old girl with high-risk anaplastic medulloblastoma, who developed severe HSOS during her second cycle of maintenance chemotherapy, consisting of vincristine, cisplatin, and cyclophosphamide. She was treated with defibrotide with complete resolution of the HSOS. These findings and a review of the literature, highlight the occurrence of HSOS in children outside the established settings of hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, Wilms tumor, rhabdomyosarcoma, and acute lymphoblastic leukemia.

BCSH/BSBMT guideline: diagnosis and management of veno-occlusive disease (sinusoidal obstruction syndrome) following haematopoietic stem cell transplantation

DIAGNOSIS

It is recommended that the diagnosis of veno-occlusive disease (sinusoidal obstruction syndrome) [VOD (SOS)] be based primarily on established clinical criteria (modified Seattle or Baltimore criteria) (1A). Ultrasound imaging may be helpful in the exclusion of other disorders in patients with suspected VOD (SOS) (1C). It is recommended that liver biopsy be reserved for patients in whom the diagnosis of VOD (SOS) is unclear and there is a need to exclude other diagnoses (1C). It is recommended that liver biopsies are undertaken using the transjugular approach in order to reduce the risks associated with the procedure (1C). It is suggested that the role of plasminogen activator inhibitor 1 levels remains an area for further research but that these levels should not form part of the routine diagnostic work-up for VOD (SOS) at present (2C).

RISK FACTORS

It is recommended that patients are assessed for risk factors for VOD (SOS) and that these risk factors are addressed prior to haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (1A).

PROPHYLAXIS

Defibrotide is recommended at a dose of 6.25 mg/kg intravenously four times daily for the prevention of VOD (SOS) in children undergoing allogeneic stem cell transplantation with the following risk factors: pre-existing hepatic disease, second myeloablative transplant, allogeneic transplant for leukaemia beyond second relapse, conditioning with busulfan-containing regimens, prior treatment with gemtuzumab ozogamicin, diagnosis of primary haemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis, adrenoleucodystrophy or osteopetrosis (1A). Defibrotide is suggested at a dose of 6.25 mg/kg intravenously four times daily for the prevention of VOD (SOS) in adults undergoing allogeneic stem cell transplantation with the following risk factors: pre-existing hepatic disease, second myeloablative transplant, allogeneic transplant for leukaemia beyond second relapse, conditioning with busulfan-containing regimens, prior treatment with gemtuzumab ozogamicin, diagnosis of primary haemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis, adrenoleucodystrophy or osteopetrosis (2B). Prostaglandin E1 is not recommended in the prophylaxis of VOD (SOS) due to lack of efficacy and toxicity (1B). Pentoxifylline is not recommended in the prophylaxis of VOD (SOS) due to lack of efficacy (1A). Ursodeoxycholic acid is suggested for use in the prophylaxis of VOD (SOS) (2C). Heparin (unfractionated and low molecular weight) is not suggested for use in the prophylaxis of VOD (SOS) due to the risk of increased toxicity (2B). Antithrombin is not suggested for the prophylaxis of VOD (SOS) due to lack of efficacy (2B).

TREATMENT

Defibrotide is recommended in the treatment of VOD (SOS) in adults and children (1B). Tissue plasminogen activator is not recommended for use in the treatment of VOD (SOS) due to the associated risk of haemorrhage (1B). N-acetylcysteine is not routinely recommended for use in the treatment of veno-occlusive disease due to lack of efficacy (1A). Methylprednisolone may be considered for use in the treatment of veno-occlusive disease with the appropriate caveats of caution regarding infection (2C). Judicious clinical care, particularly in the management of fluid balance, is recommended in the management of VOD (SOS) (1C). Early discussion with critical care specialists and a specialist hepatology unit is recommended in the management of VOD (SOS) and other treatment options including transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt or hepatic transplantation may be considered (1C).

SUMMARY

A joint working group established by the Haemato-oncology subgroup of the British Committee for Standards in Haematology (BCSH) and the British Society for Blood and Marrow Transplantation (BSBMT) has reviewed the available literature and made recommendations for the diagnosis and management of veno-occlusive disease of the liver following haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). This guideline includes recommendations for both prophylaxis and treatment of the condition and includes recommendations for children and adults undergoing HSCT.