Factor XIII replacement in stem-cell transplant recipients with severe hemorrhagic cystitis: A report of four cases

Background. Hemorrhagic cystitis (HQ is an important cause of morbidity in patients undergoing allogeneic stem-cell transplantation (SCT). Various causes have been identified, such as the use of high-dose cyclophosphamide or busulfan and the occurrence of acute graft-versus-host disease or viral infections (cytomegalovirus, adenovirus, polyomavirus). Methods. The clinical course of four patients treated with factor XIII (FXIII) concentrate for severe HC after allogeneic SCT is described. Results. Four patients were treated with one or two infusions of 50 IU/kg of FXIII concentrate. Only one patient showed a plasmatic FXIII decrease before treatment. Three of the four patients responded to this treatment, and HC completely resolved in two of them. No adverse event was observed. Conclusion. The use of FXIII concentrate can improve the major symptoms of HC in patients with decreased or normal FXIII plasma level after allogeneic SCT.