Prolactin, a potential biomarker for chronic GVHD activity

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Endocrinology
• Hematology

Background:

• Prolactin (PRL) is a hormone and cytokine produced by the pituitary gland and extra-pituitary tissues.
• Chronic graft-versus-host disease (cGVHD) is a significant complication following allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HCT).
• Identifying reliable biomarkers for cGVHD is crucial for patient management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between hyperprolactinemia and active cGVHD.
• To explore prolactin as a potential biomarker for cGVHD in long-term allo-HCT survivors.

Main Methods:

• A cohort of 316 adult allo-HCT survivors, who lived more than one year post-transplant, was analyzed.
• Serum prolactin (PRL) levels were assessed as part of regular annual evaluations.
• Statistical analysis, including multivariate analysis, was performed to determine correlations.

Main Results:

• 74.7% of patients had cGVHD, with 63% experiencing moderate to severe grades.
• Active cGVHD was present in 21% of recipients at evaluation.
• Hyperprolactinemia was documented in 19.9% of patients and significantly correlated with active cGVHD (OR 6.9).
• Patients with hyperprolactinemia were 6.4 times more likely to have active cGVHD.

Conclusions:

• Elevated prolactin levels are associated with active cGVHD in long-term allo-HCT survivors.
• Prolactin shows potential as a biomarker for cGVHD activity.
• Further research is needed to confirm these findings and assess prolactin's impact on cGVHD severity and prognosis.