Myeloablative regimens in peripheral stem cell transplantation

There is considerable opportunity for research in identifying the relative merits of various preparatory regimens utilized for high dose therapy in autologous peripheral stem cell transplantation. These include studies of the dose level of a particular regimen (e.g., CBV). There is some suggestion in the literature that a dose response effect exists even at high doses. Studies of the relative merits of different drugs such as cyclophosphamide, melphalan, and hydroxyurea that have all been added to the CBV regimen need to be carried out. The contribution of TBI also remains uncertain. However, these studies require prospective, randomized trials that will probably have to be performed on a multi-institutional basis. It is also possible that future uses of hematopoietic growth factors will significantly modify concerns about safety with any regimen.