Autologous Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplant in Systemic Sclerosis: Quantitative High Resolution Computed Tomography of the Chest Scoring

Objective. Using high resolution computed tomography (HRCT), to assess the lung involvement outcome after autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplant (AHSCT) in patients with scleroderma (systemic sclerosis, SSc). Methods. HCRT scans prospectively performed before (n = 9 patients) and after (n = 47) AHSCT were blindly reviewed by 2 independent investigators using the Wells score. Results. After a median 60 months’ followup, the overall disease extent score from HCRT scans decreased from 10 (0–45) to 4 (0–36) (p = 0.04) 6 months after AHSCT, and thereafter increased up to 36 months and stabilized; the modified Rodnan skin score fell (p < 0.05). Conclusion. The extent of SSc lung involvement on HRCT rapidly but transiently regressed after AHSCT.