Lung transplantation and extracorporeal photopheresis: The answer to bronchiolitis obliterans?

Abstract

Bronchiolitis obliterans (BO) is a rare condition characterized by narrowing of small airways. Although it can be caused by variety of conditions, most cases occur after lung and bone marrow transplantation in the form of graft-versus-host-disease and chronic rejection, respectively. Extracorporeal photopheresis (ECP) has emerged as a promising treatment for the condition, especially for BO after lung transplantation. Available data suggest that around two-thirds of patients may demonstrate either slowing or cessation of disease progression after treatment with ECP. Recent researches also provide interesting insights into possible mechanism of action of ECP in BO.