Pattern of a Serum Biomarker Panel in Pediatric Allogeneic Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplant Recipients - A Single...

Allogenic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation is compromised by transplant-related morbidity and mortality, particularly acute graft-versus-host disease (aGVHD). Early diagnosis or prediction of aGVHD is crucial for improving treatment outcomes. This study aimed to explore the utility of a biomarker panel for predicting and diagnosing aGVHD, as well as correlating biomarkers with aGVHD severity and response to treatment.

In this prospective study of 83 pediatric patients undergoing allogeneic HSCT, patterns of seven biomarkers were followed starting from the day of stem cell infusion up to day 90 post-transplant.

Patients with aGVHD exhibited significantly higher levels of IL-2Rα, IL-6, IL-8, and HGF at the onset of aGVHD. Furthermore, patients with refractory aGVHD demonstrated elevated levels of HGF on day 28 post-transplant. In aGVHD patients, the biomarkers exhibited a distinct pattern. With the exception of IL-6, all biomarkers significantly increased at the onset of aGVHD. Following treatment, most biomarker levels decreased, except IL-6, IL-8, and HGF, which remained elevated 28 days post therapy initiation. These three biomarkers were also significantly higher in steroid-refractory patients.

In summary, IL-2Rα, IL-6, IL-8, and HGF show potential for aiding in the diagnosis of aGVHD. Additionally, HGF, IL-6, and IL-8 levels may serve as predictors of response to steroid therapy.