How Effective are Stem Cell Transplants for Senior Patients with Myelofibrosis?

If you have advanced myelofibrosis, the only potential cure currently available is an allogeneic stem cell transplant. This procedure involves receiving an infusion of donor stem cells, which can develop into various types of blood cells. However, it carries certain risks, including potential side effects. 

Researchers examined whether advanced age is as significant a barrier to eligibility for a stem cell transplant as previously thought. Their study suggests that factors like overall health and physical fitness may play a more critical role than age in determining eligibility. 

Explore the study’s insights below, which may provide valuable support as you consider your treatment options for myelofibrosis.

Allogeneic Stem Cell Transplant Outcomes for Seniors with Myelofibrosis

A study analyzed data from 872 people with myelofibrosis who received an allogeneic stem cell transplant. Of these, 51 patients were over the age of 70. The majority of patients had high-risk myelofibrosis. 

Despite the challenges associated with age, the results were encouraging: 59% of these senior patients were still alive two years after the transplant, and 31% were cancer-free.

The research also found additional factors that influenced patients’ outcomes: 

• Patients with a matched sibling or unrelated donor had better survival rates than those with mismatched donors.
• Unfortunately, Hispanic patients experienced poorer outcomes compared to Caucasian patients due to differences in healthcare access and social support. If you need help accessing cancer care, click here to learn how patient navigators can support you. 

Muhammad Umair Mushtaq, MD, from the University of Kansas Medical Center, shared his thoughts about the study in an interview HealthTree hosted at the 2024 ASH conference. Listen to his insights below.

These findings suggest that age alone shouldn’t prevent patients from receiving a potentially curative transplant. Instead, whether a patient is eligible for the procedure should focus more on the patient’s fitness criteria. 

If you are interested in discussing an allogeneic stem cell transplant to treat myelofibrosis, ask your myelofibrosis specialist if this may be right for you. 

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Sources:

• 2172 Outcomes of Allogeneic Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation in Older Patients Aged over 70 Years with Myelofibrosis
• Are Stem Cell Transplants Safe for Myelofibrosis Patients Over 70?