Hematopoietic cell transplantation in Latin America

The first bone marrow transplantation in Latin America was performed more than 30 years ago and since then several countries have started transplant programs. The Center for International Blood and Marrow Transplant Research captured information on 13,473 transplants performed in Latin America from 1981 to 2009. The current report summarizes this activity. Argentina, Mexico, and Brazil have the largest activity in the region. Despite increase in the annual number of transplants, the activity is limited to sibling donor and autologous transplants. Indications are similar to other regions with a proportionally higher number of pediatric transplants for treatment of non-malignant diseases. Unrelated donor transplant activity is also increasing through collaborations with international donor registries and the development of the first national donor registry in Brazil. Umbilical cord transplants were also reported in Latin American centers, mainly in Brazil and most commonly used for treatment of children with malignant diseases. In conclusion, hematopoietic cell transplantation is routinely performed in several centers in Latin America. However, the activity is low compared to the population in need. Challenges with costs of transplantation, donor availability, number of centers of excellence, and trained personnel need to be addressed for further development of this field in the region. Additionally, more integration between countries and transplant centers is an important next step and can assist in improving awareness for the field and maximizing the transplant activity in Latin America.