Research Information System
Clinical Transplantation, vol.40, no.3, 2026 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus)
Background: Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) is widely used in both malignant and non-malignant diseases in children. This study aimed to evaluate long-term endocrine complications in pediatric HSCT survivors. Methods: Children who underwent HSCT between April 2010 and October 2014 were retrospectively assessed. Data included demographics, growth and nutritional status, thyroid function, bone health, pubertal development, and gonadal function. Results: Seventy-five patients (45 males, 30 females; mean current age 18.8 ± 3.9 years) were included. The mean follow-up duration after HSCT was 9.7 ± 1.2 years, and at least one endocrine disorder was identified in 40 patients (53.3%). At the last follow-up, 23 patients (30.6%) were underweight, and 17 (18.6%) had short stature. Growth impairment was more frequent in patients with non-malignant diseases. Hypothyroidism was observed in 6 patients (8%), and low bone mineral density (BMD)/osteoporosis in 17 (22.6%). Short stature, malnutrition, low BMD, and vitamin D deficiency were more prevalent among those who underwent HSCT at ≥10 years of age. Hypogonadism was detected in 12 females (40%) and 11 males (24%) and showed no association with age at HSCT, pubertal stage, primary diagnosis, or conditioning regimen. Conclusions: These findings underscore the importance of long-term endocrine surveillance in HSCT survivors, particularly in those transplanted at ≥10 years of age.