Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation for Refractory Crohn Disease

Multiple case reports and small studies have provided promising data regarding the use of autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) for refractory severe Crohn disease. Now, investigators have conducted a randomized controlled trial involving 45 patients with refractory Crohn disease who received stem cell mobilization and then either immunoablation and HSCT or deferment of HSCT for 1 year (controls). Patients were given standard treatments as needed. The primary endpoint was sustained disease remission, defined as Crohn disease activity index (CDAI) <150 during the last 3 months, no active treatment during the last 3 months, and no mucosal erosion or ulceration anywhere in the gastrointestinal tract.

HSCT did not meet the pr…