Pulmonary complications in pediatric hematopoietic stem cell transplantation: an overview for pediatricians

This review will describe pulmonary complications of hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HCT) are a significant source of short- and long-term morbidity and mortality. In recent years the amount of HCT being performed in pediatric continues to increase with new disease included as a form of treatment. Complications which include infection, inflammation, immune mediated damage, and regimen associated toxicity is critically import for early recognition to avoid end organ damage.

This review encompasses current literature related to pediatric pulmonary complications of HCT. Types of HCT and conditioning treatments have changed over the past 15-20 years with the goal of reducing complications of HCT such as graft versus host disease. Updated guidelines will be referenced that address post HCT follow up recommendations in pediatrics.

Timely diagnosis of post HCT complications will improve overall care. Ongoing research in this field is needed to continue to improve outcomes and identify biomarkers of disease. Large cohort prospective studies are needed and underway to improve our knowledge with the goal of narrowing the knowledge gap in this field.