Non-infectious pulmonary complications after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation

Abstract

Non-infectious pulmonary complications (NIPC) frequently occur during the follow-up of patients who underwent allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (AHSCT). They are associated with significant mortality and morbidity. They may occur at different moments following ACSH and involve any anatomic lung area. Different histopathological entities have been described, including bronchiolitis obliterans which is the most often diagnosed disease. Despite a poorly understood pathogenesis, NIPC are usually associated with graft versus host (GVH) disease. Intensification of the immunosuppressive therapy, traditionally indicated for the treatment of extra-thoracic GVH disease may allow resolution of some NIPC; however, this treatment is ineffective in several others, like bronchiolitis obliterans.