Consolidative autologous hematopoietic stem-cell transplantation in first remission for non-Hodgkin lymphoma: current indications and future perspective

Abstract

The non-Hodgkin lymphomas (NHLs) are a heterogeneous group of diseases with variable clinical outcomes. Autologous hematopoietic stem-cell transplantation (ASCT) as frontline, consolidative therapy has been evaluated based upon histological subtype of NHL. In this review, we summarize the major clinical trials guiding the use of frontline ASCT in NHL. With the constantly changing landscape of upfront therapy and multiple promising novel agents, the ability to conduct randomized trials to evaluate the benefit of consolidative ASCT is not only challenging but may be considered by some an inept utilization of resources. Our recommendation for consolidative ASCT is based on analyzing the current available data.