Conducting hematopoietic stem cell transplantation in low and middle income countries

Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) is a well-recognized therapeutic procedure; costs limit its widespread use in low and middle income countries (LMIC).

Over a 30-year period, we have conducted HSCT in LMIC, making adaptations to the conventional procedures conducted in high-income countries (HIC).

These salient observations stem from our practice: (1) Start with autologous transplantations in patients with hematological malignancies, specifically multiple myeloma; cell freezing devices are not necessary. (2) Next, consider auto-HSCT in patients with autoimmune diseases. (3) Introduce allogeneic transplants, initially using reduced intensity conditioning regimens. Conducting the HSCT on an outpatient basis is cheaper and safer. (4) Do not build HEPA-filtered rooms nor laminar flow cabins. (5) Do not graft cord blood cells nor start a cord blood blank. (6) Engage in haploidentical transplantations which are more feasible and cost-effective. (7) Matched unrelated donors are extremely expensive. (8) Use generic drugs and biosimilars. (9) Blood product irradiation devices are not necessary. (10) Do not try to reproduce other HSCT programs from HIC; develop your own methods.

HSCT can be conducted in LMIC with reduced costs and similar efficacy, thus making this therapeutic option affordable for more persons.