Evaluation of endocrine and metabolic dysfunctions after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation in children: a study from Turkey

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Endocrine organs are highly susceptible to effects of high-dose chemotherapy. The objective of the study was to evaluate endocrine and metabolic complications after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) in children. METHODS: The patients who underwent HSCT in our center from April 2010 to October 2014 with at least 1 year follow-up were analyzed retrospectively. RESULTS: One-hundred children (M/F:59/41; mean age 8.9±4.8 years, mean follow-up time 3.4±1.2 years) were included in the study. Female hypogonadism was the most common endocrine dysfunction (35.7%), followed by growth impairment (29.4%), malnutrition (27.4%), dyslipidemia (26%), low bone mineral density (BMD) (25%), hypothyroidism (13%) and insulin resistance (12%). Patients who underwent HSCT >10 years of age were significantly at risk for hypogonadism, metabolic syndrome, growth impairment and malnutrition (p<0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Endocrine or metabolic dysfunctions are more prevalent in children who are older than 10 years of age at HSCT. Children who underwent HSCT should be followed-up by a multidisciplinary team during puberty and adolescence.