Pediatr Transplant. 2025 Nov;29(7):e70211. doi: 10.1111/petr.70211.
ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: Allogenic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation is compromised by transplant-related morbidity and mortality, particularly acute graft-versus-host disease (aGVHD). Early diagnosis or prediction of aGVHD is crucial for improving treatment outcomes. This study aimed to explore the utility of a biomarker panel for predicting and diagnosing aGVHD, as well as correlating biomarkers with aGVHD severity and response to treatment.
METHODS: In this prospective study of 83 pediatric patients undergoing allogeneic HSCT, patterns of seven biomarkers were followed starting from the day of stem cell infusion up to day 90 post-transplant.
RESULTS: Patients with aGVHD exhibited significantly higher levels of IL-2Rα, IL-6, IL-8, and HGF at the onset of aGVHD. Furthermore, patients with refractory aGVHD demonstrated elevated levels of HGF on day 28 post-transplant. In aGVHD patients, the biomarkers exhibited a distinct pattern. With the exception of IL-6, all biomarkers significantly increased at the onset of aGVHD. Following treatment, most biomarker levels decreased, except IL-6, IL-8, and HGF, which remained elevated 28 days post therapy initiation. These three biomarkers were also significantly higher in steroid-refractory patients.
CONCLUSION: In summary, IL-2Rα, IL-6, IL-8, and HGF show potential for aiding in the diagnosis of aGVHD. Additionally, HGF, IL-6, and IL-8 levels may serve as predictors of response to steroid therapy.
PMID:41108045 | DOI:10.1111/petr.70211
