Cyclosporin in bone marrow transplantation

Cyclosporin, the first truly selective immunosuppressive agent, has a useful role in HLA-identical sibling bone marrow transplantation for haematological malignancy and severe aplastic anaemia. Specifically, it has been shown to minimise graft-versus-host disease, particularly when used in combination with methotrexate, and to reduce the risk of marrow graft rejection. Its mode of action, pharmacology, clinical utility and toxicology in the marrow transplant setting are described.