Autologous Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation (aHSCT) in a 56-Year-Old Filipino Female With Relapsing and...

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is the most common autoimmune demyelinating disease of the central nervous system. Treatment options include oral, subcutaneous, and intravenous disease-modifying therapies (DMT). An alternative therapy in the treatment of MS is autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (aHSCT). It has been shown to benefit patients with relapsing and remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) who have an inadequate response to DMTs. In this case report, we present the first local documentation of a 56-year-old Filipino female diagnosed with RRMS who underwent aHSCT. Prior to treatment, she was maintained on rituximab for two years and had an expanded disability status scale (EDSS) score of one. Due to the development of new-onset first-degree atrioventricular (AV) block, she was subsequently switched to aHSCT and underwent the procedure without any complications. Two years after treatment, she has not had any relapses, is not on any DMT, has a stable EDSS score of one, and is independent in all her activities of daily living. Our case underscores the utility of considering aHSCT as a possible cost-effective, safe, and effective treatment option for Filipino patients with RRMS.