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Published on: August 31, 2016
Lipid profiles of pediatric hematopoietic stem cell transplant survivors
Cheryl Rodgers1, Mary Ann Gregurich, Marilyn Hockenberry
1Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX 77030, USA. ccrodger@txch.org
Insights
Pediatric hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) survivors show trends toward abnormal lipid levels, with body mass index being a key factor. Early awareness and monitoring of dyslipidemia are crucial for these young patients.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Hematology
- Cardiovascular Health
- Transplantation Medicine
Background:
- Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a leading cause of death, with lipid abnormalities potentially starting in childhood.
- Hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) survivors face an elevated risk of abnormal lipid levels, yet data in pediatric populations post-HSCT is limited.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe lipid profiles in pediatric HSCT survivors within the first three years post-transplant.
- To identify factors associated with dyslipidemia in this vulnerable pediatric population.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective chart review of 31 pediatric HSCT patients.
- Analysis of lipid profiles (total cholesterol, LDL, HDL) and associated factors, including BMI.
- Assessment of lipid level changes over the first three years post-HSCT.
Main Results:
- Mean lipid levels were within normal ranges but showed wide variations.
- No significant changes in lipid levels over time, but trends indicated increasing total cholesterol and LDL, and decreasing HDL.
- The majority of patients had at least one abnormal lipid level at 1 and 2 years post-HSCT.
- Body mass index (BMI) was the sole factor significantly linked to dyslipidemia.
Conclusions:
- Pediatric HSCT survivors exhibit concerning trends in lipid profiles post-transplant.
- Increased BMI is a significant risk factor for dyslipidemia in these patients.
- Early identification and management of dyslipidemia are essential for HSCT survivors to mitigate cardiovascular risks.
Abstract:
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death among adults in the United States. CVD pathology, including abnormal lipid levels, may begin in childhood. Hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) survivors have increased risk of abnormal lipid levels, but there is limited information in children post-HSCT. The study aimed to describe lipid levels and identify the factors associated with dyslipidemia in pediatric HSCT survivors during the first 3 years post-HSCT. This descriptive research study used a retrospective chart review to assess lipid profiles among 31 pediatric HSCT patients. Mean lipid levels were within normal limits but contained large ranges in values. There was no statistically significant change over time; however, there was an increased trend of total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein levels and a decreased trend of high-density lipoprotein levels. The majority of patients had one abnormal lipid level at 1 and 2 years post-HSCT. Body mass index was the only factor significantly associated with dyslipidemia. An awareness of dyslipidemia among HSCT survivors may allow for early identification and treatment of abnormal lipid levels.
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