How to prevent relapse after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation in patients with acute leukemia and myelodysplastic syndrome

Curr Res Transl Med. 2017 Apr-Jun;65(2):65-69. doi: 10.1016/j.retram.2017.06.001. Epub 2017 Jul 4.

Abstract

Disease relapse remains the first cause of mortality of hematological malignancies after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HCT). The risk of recurrence is elevated in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) patients with high-risk cytogenetic or molecular abnormalities, as well as when allo-HCT is performed in patients with refractory hematological malignancies or with persistent molecular or radiological (PET-CT scan) residual disease. For high risk AML and myelodysplasia (MDS), a post transplant maintenance strategy is possible, using hypomethylating agents or tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKI) anti-FLT3 when the target is present. For Philadelphia positive acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), there is a consensus for the use of TKI anti BCR-ABL as post transplant maintenance.

Keywords: Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation; Maintenance strategy; Preemptive strategy; Relapse.

Publication types

  • Review