:: Volume 24, Issue 1 (1-2026) ::
Int J Radiat Res 2026, 24(1): 173-178 Back to browse issues page
Autologous Peripheral Blood Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation for Refractory Systemic Sclerosis and Cancer Patients Undergoing Radiotherapy
S. Tong , Z. Liu , Q. Wen , X. Zhang , C. Zheng
Department of Hematology, Rheumatology and Immunology, Pu'er People's Hospital, Pu’er, China , onrx855@163.com
Abstract:   (579 Views)
Background: To evaluate the clinical effectiveness of autologous peripheral blood hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (Auto-HSCT) as a therapeutic approach for patients with both refractory systemic sclerosis (SSc) and cancer undergoing radiotherapy. Materials and Methods: Eleven patients with refractory SSc and concurrent cancer received Auto-HSCT following peripheral blood stem cell mobilization. Standardized radiotherapy protocols were applied based on cancer type. Preconditioning regimens included combinations of cyclophosphamide, melphalan, rituximab, and bendamustine. Post-transplant assessments focused on hematopoietic recovery, SSc disease activity, and tumor response. Results: A mean of 3.87 × 106/kg CD34+ cells were collected. All patients achieved hematopoietic reconstitution, with neutrophil and platelet recovery occurring in 9 ± 3 and 14 ± 7 days, respectively. At a median follow-up of 14.6 months, improvements in modified Rodnan skin scores (mRSS), digital ulcers, Raynaud’s phenomenon, and pulmonary fibrosis were observed. Eight patients showed sustained improvement in SSc and cancer response. Three patients relapsed and required additional immunotherapy. Conclusion: Auto-HSCT appears to be a feasible and effective option for patients with both refractory SSc and cancer undergoing radiotherapy. It improved autoimmune disease control, enhanced hematopoietic recovery, and supported cancer treatment with manageable toxicity.
Keywords: Systemic Sclerosis, Neoplasms, Radiotherapy, Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation, Autologous, CD34 Antigen.
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Type of Study: Original Research | Subject: Radiation Biology



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Volume 24, Issue 1 (1-2026) Back to browse issues page