Peripheral stem cell mobilization and engraftment in patients over age 60

Abstract

Data from 225 multiple myeloma (MM) patients, undergoing peripheral stem cell (PBSC) mobilization with high-dose cyclophosphamide and hematopoietic growth factors, were analyzed for median CD34⁺ cell count and median time to post-transplant neutrophil (ANC > 500/μ l) and platelet (> 50 000/μ l) recovery according to age groups (20–49, 50–59 and ⩾60 years) and duration of prior therapy (⩽12, 13–24 or >24 months). Fifty-seven of the 225 patients were ⩾60 years. No difference in either the median number of CD34⁺ cells collected or time to engraftment occurred between age groups, when adjusted for duration of prior therapy. These data support the concept that autotransplants can be performed safely in patients ⩾60 years and that these patients should not be excluded from the most effective treatment modalities.