Multiple sclerosis (MS) leads to a decline in physical, cognitive, and emotional well-being. While autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (ASCT) has been established as an effective treatment for MS—often outperforming immunomodulatory therapies—its specific impact on quality of life remains under investigation.
A new longitudinal, prospective study conducted at a single institution aimed to assess how ASCT influences quality of life in MS patients over one year. Researchers used the MS-QoL 54 questionnaire, a validated tool for measuring both physical and mental health components. The study included 53 participants, with a majority (60.37%) diagnosed with relapsing-remitting MS. Patients underwent ASCT as outpatients using a high-dose cyclophosphamide and rituximab regimen, known as the “Mexican method.”
One year post-transplantation, significant improvements were observed in several physical health metrics. Notable findings include:
- Energy levels: Increased from 40.30 to 50.86 (p = 0.004)
- Role limitations due to physical problems: Improved from 30.18 to 45.75 (p = 0.20)
- General health perceptions: Increased from 48.30 to 56.50 (p = 0.017)
- Cognitive function: Improved from 64.90 to 74.72 (p = 0.003)
- Health distress: Decreased significantly from 41.60 to 59.15 (p < 0.001)
- Overall physical health score: Increased from 49.44 to 57.21 (p = 0.018)
These findings contribute to a growing body of evidence supporting ASCT as a potential intervention for improving quality of life in MS. While the procedure remains intensive and patient selection is critical, its role in long-term disease management continues to be explored in clinical settings.
\
