This can lead to a range of mild to severe symptoms, based on which organs are attacked.
A 2023 study of 3,542 people found that 40% experienced a GvHD diagnosis after transplant.
If GvHD symptoms develop, treatment can include steroidal and nonsteroidalimmune-suppressantsthat can temper and eventually control theautoimmune-like assault.
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This article explains GvHD causes and symptoms of the condition.
It discusses who may be more at risk of GvHD and how the condition is treated and prevented.
Acute vs.
It can sometimes manifest with features of acute and chronic GvHD, referred to as “overlap syndrome.”
With chronic GvHD, the affected organ systems tend to be more diverse.
The symptoms of acute and chronic GvHD can range from mild to severe.
If no matches are available, unrelated donors are used on the basis ofHLA blood test results.
But even with a genetic match, the risk of GvHD remains high.
The rate is even higher when an unrelated HLA-matched donor is involved.
Beyond HLA typing, there are other factors that can increase the risk of acute or chronic GvHD.
How Is GVHD Diagnosed?
It may seem reasonable todiagnose GvHDbased on symptoms alone in an allogeneic transplant recipient.
In such cases, symptoms alone are enough to render a diagnosis.
The NIH defines diagnostic symptoms as defining features that do not require any form of confirmatory testing.
Chronic GvHD
The grading system of chronic GvHD is slightly different.
To this end, healthcare providers will explore other explanations for the symptoms to ensure the correct diagnosis.
There are several types used in the treatment of GvHD.
Corticosteroids
Corticosteroid drugs(a.k.a.
steroids) are the cornerstone of treatment for both acute and chronic GvHD.
Mild cutaneous GvHD may only require atopical steroidto control skin symptoms.
Severe symptoms in people with GvHD are typically treated with intravenous corticosteroids likeprednisoneand methylprednisone.
Some people may require no further treatment.
These include:
Even if symptoms aren’t entirely resolved, there are some benefits to having mild GvHD.
What Is the Survival Rate for GvHD?
A number of factors affect graft-versus-host disease outcomes and life expectancy.
Of those who do respond to corticosteroid therapy, anywhere from 20% to 25% will relapse.
Skin Care
Regular moisturizing is key to improving the tightness and dryness of the skin.
Use anemollient-rich moisturizerwithout perfumes or fragrance, applied immediately after showering and throughout the day as needed.
Diet
GvHD occurring in the gastrointestinal tract can cause significant diarrhea and weight loss.
Sex
GvHD can sometimes affect the genitals and libido of both women and men.
Testosterone replacement therapycan often help improve libido in men.
Other stress management techniques include meditation, progressive muscle relaxation (PMR), and guided imagery.
Symptoms typically begin in the skin but spread across the body and into other organs.
GvHD is a serious and often fatal development.
Treatment is possible, however, and GvHD symptoms can be effectively controlled medications.
While some people require lifelong treatment, a great many don’t.
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Wolfe D, Lawitschka A.Chapter 44: Chronic graft-versus-host disease.
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