Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation in the elderly

The development of reduced intensity or non-myeloablative conditioning (NST) in preparation for allogeneic stem cell transplantation (SCT) revolutionized the field and led to reconsideration of the dogma of upper age limit that was set up by the transplant centers as an eligibility parameter. Analysis of the literature data showed that NST regimens are associated with decreased transplant related mortality, and graft-versus-host disease, in comparison with standard myeloablative conditioning, in patients above the age of 50-55 years, or in younger patients with significant comorbidities. However we have to mention, that our considerations are based on the retrospective analysis of the literature data, and that well controlled prospective randomized studies are needed in order to definitely assess the role of NST. Comorbidity indices might be proved as the most important parameters for the choice of the most proper regimen for each patient in need and should be included in future trials.