The EBMT Activity Survey on Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation: A novel Instrument for Quality Control

Authors: ALOIS GRATWOHL, HELEN BALDOMERO, ALVARO URBANO ISPIZUA

Abstract: The hematopoietic stem cell transplant activity survey of the European Group for Blood and Marrow Transplantation (EBMT) represents a novel modern tool in health care management. Introduced in 1990, it captures annual numbers of hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) by indication, donor type and stem cell source from each individual European transplant team. Supplemented by demographical data and economic factors, team density and transplant rates can be calculated and the impact of economics on HSCT rates can be assessed. As documented in the present analysis, a total of 19,668 HSCT were performed in Europe in 2001 by 599 teams in 31 countries, 6426 (30%) allogeneic and 13,242 autologous (70%) HSCT. The main indications for allogeneic HSCT were leukemias, lymphoproliferative disorders and non-malignant diseases; the main indications for autologous HSCT were lymphoproliferative disorders, solid tumors and leukemias. The main sources of stem cells were peripheral blood (95%) for autologous, peripheral blood (60%) and bone marrow (40%) for allogeneic HSCT. Based on its completeness the EBMT activity survey allows for a rapid description of the status quo that allows us to assess of trends and determine factors influencing transplant rates. As such it provides up-to-date information for patients, treating physicians and health care officials. It can serve as an example for other such surveys to come.

Keywords: Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, transplant activity, economic factors, public health

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