Stem cell collection considerations for AL amyloidosis

Amyloidosis is a progressive disease that traditionally is associated with poor clinical outcomes. Recent advances in amyloidosis treatment may allow for more patients tobe considered for autologous stem cell transplantation. In this report, we review a case of autologous peripheral blood stem cell transplantation in a patient with systemic amyloidosis and review special considerations in peripheral blood stem cell collection in such patients. We conclude that it may be reasonable to consider substituting heparin for some of the citrate used in peripheral blood stem cell collection procedures performed on patients with cardiac amyloidosis, so long as there are no contraindications to heparin exposure.