Chronic graft versus host disease with small bowel obstruction after unrelated hematopoietic stem cell transplantation in a patient with acute myeloid leukemia

Korean J Hematol. 2012 Jun;47(2):142-5. doi: 10.5045/kjh.2012.47.2.142. Epub 2012 Jun 26.

Abstract

Chronic graft versus host disease (GVHD) is a frequent complication after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT), but simultaneous small bowel obstruction is rare. Here, we report a child with acute myeloid leukemia who received an allogeneic HSCT from an unrelated matched donor. After HSCT, the patient developed severe chronic GVHD involving the small intestine, leading to obstruction of the terminal ileum. Small bowel resection was performed, and the symptoms improved without severe complications. Bowel obstruction should be considered as a possible complication of chronic GVHD; surgery may be a valuable corrective measure.

Keywords: Acute myeloid leukemia; Graft versus host disease; Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation; Intestinal obstruction.

Publication types

  • Case Reports