Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) is standard therapy for the treatment of some hematological neoplasms and support with blood transfusions is considered essential for this procedure. Herein we describe the case of a Jeovah's witness who had Hodgkin's lymphoma in third partial remission and was submitted to high-dose chemotherapy using a classic conditioning regimen (carmustine, etoposide, cytarabine, melphalan) with posterior infusion of autologous peripheral blood stem cells without the use of blood transfusions. The patient had the usual degree of hematological toxicity and was treated with clinical support measures, such as the use of erythropoietin, IL-11 and antifibrinolytics, with the goal of minimizing the risk of bleeding and serious anemia. The HSTC coursed without major complications. This report shows that the autologous peripheral blood stem cell transplantation without the use of blood and platelet transfusions is feasible in special situations, where patients clearly express their wishes and where there is a favorable clinical condition with rigorous medical care provided by specialists.
Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation; Hodgkin's lymphoma
