HLA matching in contemporary haematopoietic cell transplantation: Recommendations from the EBMT Practice Harmonisation and Guidelines Committee - Report - MDSpire
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Current Recommendations for HLA Compatibility in Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation from the EBMT Guidelines Committee

  • By

  • Esteban Arrieta-Bolaños

  • Alberto Cardoso Martins Lima

  • Marco Andreani

  • Dianne De Santis

  • Florent Malard

  • Neema P. Mayor

  • Rohtesh S. Mehta

  • Roland Meisel

  • Simona Pagliuca

  • Effie Petersdorf

  • Simona Piemontese

  • Nicoletta Sacchi

  • Nicole Santoro

  • Jaime Sanz

  • Johannes Schetelig

  • Stephen R. Spellman

  • Francesco Onida

  • Isabel Sánchez-Ortega

  • Mohamad Mohty

  • Ibrahim Yakoub-Agha

  • Katharina Fleischhauer

  • Annalisa Ruggeri

  • June 2, 2026

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Current Recommendations for HLA Compatibility in Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation

Overview

Recent studies have introduced novel GvHD prophylaxes such as post-transplant cyclophosphamide (PTCy) and their impact on HLA mismatches. These approaches have demonstrated improved outcomes in patients receiving mismatched transplants, suggesting that flexibility in donor selection can enhance survival rates.

Background

HLA compatibility is critical for the success of allogeneic HCT, as mismatched transplants are often linked to poorer survival outcomes. Recent advancements in HLA typing and GvHD management necessitate a reevaluation of traditional beliefs regarding HLA mismatches. Understanding these dynamics is essential for optimizing donor selection and improving patient outcomes in HCT.

Data Highlights

Recent studies indicate that the use of PTCy in mismatched transplants has led to a reduction in the incidence of acute GvHD, thereby improving overall survival rates. Specific numerical data from these studies show a significant decrease in GvHD-related complications.

Key Findings

1. Mismatched HCT can be performed safely with the use of novel GvHD prophylaxes like PTCy.
2. Patients receiving mismatched transplants with PTCy demonstrated improved survival rates compared to historical controls.
3. The integration of non-HLA factors in donor selection may further enhance patient outcomes.

Clinical Implications

Clinicians should consider both HLA and non-HLA factors when selecting donors for HCT to enhance patient outcomes. The integration of novel GvHD prophylaxes like PTCy may allow for more flexible donor matching strategies, potentially improving survival rates in mismatched cases.

Conclusion

The evolving landscape of HLA compatibility in HCT underscores the need for updated clinical guidelines that reflect contemporary practices and technologies. Ongoing research and consensus recommendations will continue to shape effective donor selection strategies.

Related Resources & Content

  1. EBMT/ESID Working Group, Bone Marrow Transplantation, 2021 -- Guidelines for Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation for Inborn Errors of Immunity

  2. EBMT, Bone Marrow Transplantation, 2025 -- Guidelines for Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation and CAR-T Therapy

  3. EBMT, Bone Marrow Transplantation, 2022 -- Current Guidelines for Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation

  4. The ASCO Post, 2025 -- HLA-Matching Considerations for Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation

  5. NMDP/CIBMTR, PMC -- Allogeneic Hematopoietic Cell Donor Selection: Contemporary Guidelines

  6. Allogeneic Hematopoietic Cell Donor Selection: Contemporary Guidelines from the NMDP/CIBMTR

  7. Matched unrelated vs haploidentical donor hematopoietic cell transplantation using posttransplant cyclophosphamide

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