Reversible encephalopathy after cryopreserved peripheral blood stem cell infusion.
We report two patients who experienced severe reversible encephalopathy following infusion of peripheral blood stem cells cryopreserved in 10% dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO). In one patient, reduction of DMSO level with plasmapheresis resulted in marked improvement in encephalopathy. Infusion of large volumes of cryopreserved stem cells may result in a significant toxic reaction. Plasmapheresis may be a treatment option for patients with significant toxicity related to DMSO.
Dhodapkar
M
M
Division of Hematology and Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota 55905.
Goldberg
S L
SL
Tefferi
A
A
Gertz
M A
MA
D001927:Brain Diseases / Q000209:etiology* / Q000628:therapy; D017690:Cell Transplantation / Q000009:adverse effects*; D015925:Cryopreservation; D004121:Dimethyl Sulfoxide / Q000494:pharmacology; D018380:Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation; D006412:Hematopoietic Stem Cells / Q000187:drug effects; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010956:Plasmapheresis
D004121:Dimethyl Sulfoxide