Successful treatment of refractory donor-specific-human leukocyte antigen-antibody-induced primary graft-failure with daratumumab: A case report

Abstract

Donor-specific anti-human leukocyte antigen (HLA) antibodies represent a main cause of primary graft failure specifically in the setting of haploidentical stem cell transplantation. Newer therapy strategies including daratumumab could overcome some of these limitations. We describe the case of a patient with refractory acute myeloid leukemia. A haploidentical allogeneic stem cell transplantation was therefore initiated. HLA-antibodies testing revealed a high titer of donor-specific antibodies. First desensitization therapy failed, resulting in primary graft failure. A second desensitization regimen including plasmapheresis, intravenous gammaglobulins, and daratumumab resulted in good engraftment. Daratumumab is a promising and effective desensitization option in high-risk allo-sensitized patients undergoing haploidentical stem cell transplantation.