New research on patients with stiff person spectrum disorder suggests autologous non-myeloablative hematopoietic stem cell transplantation may be safe and effective in a subset of this population. But some experts questioned the use of the procedure given the high-cost of administering the therapy and the variable treatment response.
Autologous non-myeloablative hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) was safe and effective in a subset of patients with stiff person spectrum disorder (SPSD), according to a small open-label study, published in the December 14 online edition of Neurology.
The beneficial effect of HSCT was variable, however, and tended to improve only in those who had episodic spasms, normal tendon reflexes, and abnormal spinal but normal limb EMGs while on anti-spasmodic medications. It also was beneficial to those who were not taking selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). No patient with lead pipe rigidity responded to treatment.