Graft-versus-host disease

A major cause of morbidity and mortality following allogeneic haematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT), which continues to limit the broader application of this therapy.

Occurs when donor T cells respond to host antigens.

Current consensus is that clinical manifestations guide whether the signs and symptoms of graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) are acute, chronic, or an overlap syndrome.

Acute GVHD classically targets the skin, liver, and gastrointestinal tract. In contrast, chronic GVHD can involve almost any organ.

GVHD prophylaxis usually comprises a calcineurin-based inhibitor such as ciclosporin or tacrolimus (that blocks T-cell activation), administered with other immunosuppressants such as low-dose methotrexate or mycophenolate.

Optimum treatment of both acute and chronic forms of GVHD is yet to be fully defined, but current practice usually involves the use of systemic corticosteroids with additional immunosuppressants as required, often as part of a clinical trial.

Supportive care and monitoring are vital components of chronic GVHD management with emphasis on infection prophylaxis, physiotherapy, nutritional status, pain control, and monitoring of drug-drug interactions and drug-related adverse effects.

Graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) is a major complication following allogeneic haematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) and occurs when donor T cells respond to histoincompatible antigens on the host tissues.

Acute GVHD classically develops within the first 100 days of transplant or can occur beyond 100 days post-transplant with persistent, recurrent, or late-onset symptoms. The principle target organs include the skin, liver, and gastrointestinal tract.

Chronic GVHD may emerge from acute disease (progressive type), develop following a period of resolution from acute disease (quiescent or interrupted type), or occur de novo. The manifestations can be variable, and are often similar to those seen in autoimmune diseases.

Overlap syndrome is characterised by clinical features that resemble a combination of both acute and chronic GVHD.