Haematopoietic stem cell transplantation for severe combined immunodeficiency: Long-term health outcomes and patient perspectives

Abstract

Aim: To examine the long-term follow-up and health outcomes of patients who have undergone haematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) for severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID).

Methods: Through a structured questionnaire, we examined follow-up arrangements and long-term health outcomes in 22 children who have had a successful HSCT for SCID during the period of 1984-2012 at the Sydney Children's Hospital, Sydney, Australia.

Results: Most children considered themselves healthy and 'cured' from SCID. Whilst many children enjoy relatively good bio-social health outcomes, specific negative health outcomes and absenteeism from school were perceived negatively. Two-thirds of children see their general practitioner or specialist regularly; however, there did not appear to be consistency with the nature of this follow-up.

Conclusion: The findings from our study highlight the complex bio-psychosocial health needs of post-HSCT SCID children and encourage SCID centres to consider a multidisciplinary approach to their follow-up. Further studies into the determinants of patients' perceptions of their health are needed.

Keywords: haematopoietic stem cell transplant; immunology; outcomes; severe combined immunodeficiency.