Short-Term Impact of Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation in Leukemia Patients on Bone Bio Markers, Electrolytes and Blood Profile

Abstract

Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) or Bone Marrow Transplantation (BMT) has significantly improved the survival rates of patients suffering from hematological malignancies. However, the cure can only be achieved at the price of morbidity and long-term complications such as bone diseases leading to fractures and osteopenia. Several studies have reported the impact of organ transplants on bone metabolism, electrolytes and blood profile. This prospective observational clinical study aims at elucidating the effects of HSCT on bone metabolism, electrolytes and blood profile in leukemia patients. Sixty patients were included in this study. The current study aimed to evaluate the short-term (30 days) impact of HSCT on bone biomarkers [osteoprotegerin (OPG) and alkaline phosphatase], electrolytes (calcium, sodium, potassium, and magnesium), and blood profile [hemoglobin, absolute neutrophil count (ANC), platelet, and total leucocyte count (TLC)] in leukemia patients undergoing HSCT from their record files before HSCT (TP1) and after 30 days of HSCT (TP2). Further, the correlation among various parameters at TP2 was assessed using Spearman correlation analysis. At TP2, the level of OPG, alkaline phosphatase, calcium, magnesium and TLC increased significantly compared to TP1. However, no significant change was observed in other parameters at TP2 compared to TP1. A statistically significant positive correlation of TLC with hemoglobin and sodium; and magnesium with alkaline phosphatase was observed. Furthermore, a significant negative correlation between hemoglobin and calcium was observed. Even though there was a statistically significant increase in the level of OPG, alkaline phosphatase, calcium, magnesium and hemoglobin after 30 days of HSCT, the level of bone biomarkers, electrolytes and blood profile were in the normal physiological range. However, additional studies are required to get a detailed understanding of the changes in parameters after HSCT.