The diagnostic conundrum of acute cutaneous graft-versus-host disease: biomarkers remain elusive

Arch Dermatol Res. 2023 Oct;315(8):2467-2469. doi: 10.1007/s00403-023-02671-w. Epub 2023 Jul 22.

Abstract

Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation is increasing in frequency with graft-versus-host disease affecting many recipients. When the skin is involved, biopsy is routinely performed but often does not aid in definitive diagnosis. Here, we examine a cohort of 32 patients for potential biomarkers that can aid in the diagnosis of graft-versus-host disease. Neither blood short tandem repeat testing or neutrophil-lymphocyte ratios were predictive of rash etiology in hematopoietic stem cell transplant patients. However, skin short tandem repeat testing showed promise as a predictor in a small minority of cases in this cohort.

Keywords: Biomarkers; Graft-versus-host disease; Immunodermatology; Stem cell transplant; T cell.

Publication types

  • Letter

MeSH terms

  • Biomarkers
  • Biopsy
  • Graft vs Host Disease* / diagnosis
  • Humans
  • Minority Groups
  • Skin

Substances

  • Biomarkers