A RECENT study has provided new insights into the effects of haematopoietic cell transplant (HCT) on pulmonary function in adults with sickle cell disease (SCD). SCD, a genetic condition causing recurrent vaso-occlusive events, often leads to lifelong pulmonary complications. With growing access to curative therapies like HCT, understanding its impact on lung health is crucial.
The study, conducted at the NIH Clinical Center, followed 97 SCD patients undergoing non-myeloablative HCT from 2004 to 2019. Researchers measured pulmonary function using forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1), diffusing capacity of the lungs for carbon monoxide (DLCO), and the six-minute walk distance (6MWD). The data was collected annually for three years post-HCT.
Results showed that pulmonary function largely remained stable. Median pre-HCT FEV1 was 68.3% and 69.2% three years after HCT, showing no significant change. However, DLCO improved significantly, increasing by 3.7%. The 6MWD also showed notable improvement, increasing by 25.9 meters three years post-HCT.
The findings suggest that allogeneic HCT for SCD can help halt the cycle of pulmonary injury caused by vaso-occlusive events, preventing further lung damage. While pulmonary function remained stable, improvements in DLCO and walking ability highlight the potential benefits of HCT for SCD patients.
Researchers call for larger, multicentre studies to further explore the long-term pulmonary effects of HCT in both adults and children with SCD.
Helena Bradbury, EMJ
Reference
Ruhl AP et al. Pulmonary Function After Non-Myeloablative Hematopoietic Cell Transplant for Sickle Cell Disease. Ann Am Thorac Soc. 2024;DOI:10.1513/AnnalsATS.202309-771OC.
