Clinical guidelines for gynecologic care after hematopoietic SCT. Report from the international consensus project on...

Area of Science:

• Hematology
• Gynecology
• Oncology

Background:

• Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) can lead to chronic graft-versus-host disease (cGVHD), with specific age- and gender-related complications.
• Female genital cGVHD is historically underreported but significantly impacts patient health and quality of life.
• Limited data exist on the prevention and treatment of genital cGVHD.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive review of current knowledge on female genital cGVHD.
• To establish consensus-based recommendations for the gynecological care of patients post-HSCT.
• To address diagnosis, prevention, and treatment strategies for genital cGVHD.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive literature review was conducted.
• Discussions and consensus were reached during meetings of the German, Austrian, and Swiss Consensus Project on clinical practice in cGVHD.
• Guidelines were developed for gynecological care, including diagnosis, prevention, and treatment.

Main Results:

• Recommendations cover diagnosis, prevention, and therapeutic options for female genital cGVHD.
• Guidelines include topical treatments and hormonal replacement therapy for premature ovarian failure in adult and pediatric patients.
• The necessity of regular gynecological care and screening programs for women post-HSCT is emphasized.

Conclusions:

• Standardized gynecological care and screening are crucial for women after HSCT.
• Addressing female genital cGVHD improves patient outcomes and quality of life.
• This consensus provides a framework for managing this underrecognized complication.