Peripheral stem cell mobilization and engraftment in patients over age 60

Data from 225 multiple myeloma (MM) patients, undergoing peripheral stem cell (PBSC) mobilization with high-dose cyclophosphamide and hematopoietic growth factors, were analyzed for median CD34⁺ cell count and median time to post-transplant neutrophil (ANC > 500/μl) and platelet (> 50,000/μl) recovery according to age groups (20-49, 50-59 and ≤ 60 years) and duration of prior therapy (≤ 12, 13-24 or > 24 months). Fifty-seven of the 225 patients were ≤ 60 years. No difference in either the median number of CD34⁺ cells collected or time to engraftment occurred between age groups, when adjusted for duration of prior therapy. These data support the concept that autotransplants can be performed safely in patients ≤ 60 years and that these patients should not be excluded from the most effective treatment modalities.