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Stem cell transplantation: a treatment option for severe systemic sclerosis?

Lookup NU author(s): Professor Jaap Van Laar

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Abstract

High-dose immunosuppressive therapy and autologous stem cell transplantation (commonly referred to as "stem cell transplantation'') is an established treatment for a variety of haemato-oncological conditions. Recent studies have confirmed its potent clinical and immunological effects in rheumatic autoimmune diseases, including severe diffuse systemic sclerosis (SSc). With modifications of treatment protocols and more stringent selection of patients, the safety profile of stem cell transplantation has improved as expressed in lower treatment-related morbidity and mortality. Prospective, randomised trials are in progress in Europe and North America to compare the safety and efficacy of stem cell transplantation with conventional chemotherapy in patients with early diffuse SSc, on the premise that induction of remission in early disease can be achieved by stem cell transplantation as a means to interrupt fibrogenesis.

Publication metadata

Author(s): van Laar JM, Farge D, Tyndall A

Publication type: Article

Publication status: Published

Journal: Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases

Year: 2008

Volume: 67

Issue: Supplement 3

Pages: 35-38

Date deposited: 04/06/2010

ISSN (print): 0003-4967

ISSN (electronic): 1468-2060

Publisher: BMJ Group

URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.1136/ard.2008.098384

DOI: 10.1136/ard.2008.098384

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