Chinese Society of Hematology clinical practice guidelines for the comprehensive management of allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation in patients with severe aplastic anemia

Abstract Background: Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT) is a potentially curative treatment for severe aplastic anemia (SAA). In China, the number of SAA patients undergoing allo-HSCT has risen considerably. However, owing to variations in clinical practices between China and other countries, certain aspects of transplantation demonstrate unique and distinct characteristics. To address these unique challenges and standardize clinical practice, we developed evidence-based guidelines tailored to the management of Chinese SAA patients undergoing allo-HSCT. Methods: This clinical practice guideline was developed using the Evidence to Decision framework and the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) system to formulate evidence-based recommendations. In instances where high-quality evidence was lacking, the Delphi method was used to integrate expert opinions. The guidelines adhere to the Appraisal of Guidelines for Research and Evaluation II (AGREE II) framework and the Reporting Items for Practice Guidelines in Health Care (RIGHT) statement to ensure methodological rigor and transparency. Results: The guidelines present 32 recommendations encompassing key aspects of allo-HSCT for SAA, including patient eligibility criteria, donor and graft selection, pretransplant assessment and conditioning strategies, graft-versus-host disease prophylaxis, early management of posttransplant complications, and long-term follow-up. These recommendations are based on the latest clinical evidence and expert consensus, offering a structured approach to optimize transplantation outcomes. Conclusions: These guidelines establish standardized protocols to enhance allo-HSCT management for SAA in China by integrating current evidence and expert consensus. Its widespread adoption is expected to improve donor selection strategies, conditioning regimen applications, posttransplant care, and long-term patient outcomes. Ultimately, these recommendations aim to increase the quality of patient care, improve survival rates, and contribute to the advancement of national health care standards.