What is the best path towards allogeneic transplantation in MDS and AML? A survey among German-spreaking centers for allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation

Allogeneic hematopoetic stem cell transplantation (allo SCT) is a treatment option with a unique chance of cure for patients with high-risk AML or MDS. However, the optimal path for an individual patient on its way to allo SCT is far from clear and subject of ongoing debates. Upfront transplantation "as soon as possible" competes with strategies to achieve deep remission or at least stabilization of the disease. In this context, we performed a survey among German transplant centers to assess their preferred strategies for patients before SCT in five typical scenarios of AML and MDS. We obtained replies from 22 centers, revealing a heterogenous use of possible strategies. Upfront transplantation was a preferred option (68%) in intermediate risk MDS, chemotherapy was preferred (64%) as bridging for AML in remission, whereas hypomethylating agents (HMA) and induction chemotherapy for relapsed AML were highly controversial. Further prospective evaluation of different options is desirable.