CNS complications of hematopoietic stem cell transplantation

Tomokazu Nishiguchi1, Kunizo Mochizuki, Miyuki Shakudo

  • 1Department of Radiology, Osaka City University Graduate School of Medicine, 1-4-3, Asahimachi, Abeno, Osaka, 545-8585 Japan. tomokazu-n@med.osaka-cu.ac.jp

Insights

Radiologists need to understand central nervous system (CNS) complications following hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). This review covers HSCT background, time-dependent CNS complications, and diagnostic imaging strategies.

Area of Science:

  • Radiology
  • Hematology
  • Oncology
  • Neurology

Background:

  • Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) is increasingly utilized worldwide.
  • Radiologists require specialized knowledge of HSCT procedures and potential complications.
  • Central nervous system (CNS) complications are a significant concern following HSCT.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To provide a comprehensive overview of HSCT.
  • To detail the spectrum of CNS complications associated with HSCT in a time-dependent manner.
  • To highlight key diagnostic imaging considerations for HSCT-related CNS issues.

Main Methods:

  • Review of clinical background of HSCT.
  • Description of time-dependent CNS complications post-HSCT.
  • Discussion of pivotal diagnostic imaging findings and strategies.

Main Results:

  • HSCT complications in the CNS manifest in various ways.
  • Understanding the temporal relationship between HSCT and complication onset is crucial.
  • Specific imaging features correlate with different HSCT-related CNS pathologies.

Conclusions:

  • Familiarity with imaging manifestations of HSCT complications is essential.
  • Knowledge of underlying pathophysiological mechanisms aids diagnosis.
  • Accurate imaging interpretation optimizes patient treatment and outcomes.
Abstract

Related Concept Videos

Cryptococcal Meningitis01:27

Cryptococcal Meningitis

Cryptococcal meningitis is a life-threatening opportunistic infection predominantly associated with HIV/AIDS, accounting for over 100,000 deaths annually worldwide. However, it also affects individuals with other forms of immunosuppression, including those undergoing immunosuppressive therapy, organ transplant recipients, patients with innate immunodeficiencies, and individuals with hematological disorders. The infection is caused mainly by Cryptococcus neoformans and Cryptococcus gattii,...
Regulation of Hematopoietic Stem Cells01:01

Regulation of Hematopoietic Stem Cells

All blood and immune cells are produced from the multipotent hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) by the process of hematopoiesis. However, they all have a limited life span. In addition, many are depleted in immune surveillance or combatting an injury or infection. This makes blood one of the most regenerative tissues. Hematopoiesis helps replenish these blood and immune cells, restoring the body's normal functioning. However, overproduction of blood and immune cells can make them cancerous or...
Hemorrhagic Stroke ll: Pathophysiology01:29

Hemorrhagic Stroke ll: Pathophysiology

A hemorrhagic stroke develops when a cerebral blood vessel ruptures, allowing blood to escape into the surrounding brain tissue, as in intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH), or into the subarachnoid space, as in subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). Because the skull is a rigid compartment, the sudden presence of extravascular blood rapidly increases intracranial pressure and compresses adjacent neural structures, leading to immediate tissue injury and impaired cerebral perfusion.Mass Effect and Primary...
Cytotoxic Edema: Pathophysiology01:21

Cytotoxic Edema: Pathophysiology

Cytotoxic edema is a form of cerebral edema characterized by intracellular swelling of neurons, astrocytes, and other glial cells. It develops when the mechanisms responsible for maintaining ionic gradients across the cell membrane become impaired. Under normal physiological conditions, the sodium–potassium ATPase actively transports sodium ions out of the cell and potassium ions into the cell, preserving osmotic balance and enabling electrical signaling. This pump requires a continuous supply...
Bone Marrow Sampling and Transplants01:22

Bone Marrow Sampling and Transplants

Bone marrow transplant is a potential cure for several diseases, including cancer and specific genetic disorders. Notably, this procedure is applicable for patients suffering from aplastic anemia, certain types of leukemia, severe combined immunodeficiency disease (SCID), Hodgkin's disease, non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, multiple myeloma, thalassemia, sickle-cell disease, and certain cancers.
The transplant begins with high doses of chemotherapy and radiation treatment, which aim to destroy the...
Stem Cell Therapy for Tissue Regeneration01:21

Stem Cell Therapy for Tissue Regeneration

Stem cell therapy is a method used in regenerative medicine to repair and restore function to damaged tissues and organs. Stem cells have the potential to proliferate and differentiate into various tissue types, making them ideal candidates for tissue regeneration. For example, hematopoietic stem cell transplants are commonly used in blood cancer treatment to replenish damaged bone marrow and restore healthy blood cells.
Types of Stem Cells used in Stem Cell Therapy
The two main cell types that...