Graft-versus-Host Disease in a Dog After Reduced-intensity Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation from a DLA-identical Littermate

Background: Graft-versus-host disease (GvHD) is an adverse effect following hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) in humans. Dogs represent a key model organism for the development of treatment protocols for HSCT. However, detailed descriptions of canine GvHD and its treatment are rare. Herein we describe the development of canine GvHD and therapeutic intervention. Materials and Methods: A female Beagle received an allogeneic HSCT from a dog leukocyte antigen-identical littermate (conditioning with 4.5 Gy total body irradiation; immunosuppression with cyclosporine A). Results: GvHD developed at day + 52 and was treated with methylprednisolone, cyclosporine A, antibiotics, antiviral medication and analgesics. The dog initially responded to the treatment but GvHD relapsed twice. Within one week after discontinuation of glucocorticoid, GvHD recurred resulting in inevitable euthanasia of the animal. Conclusion: GvHD represents a life-threatening disease after HSCT in canines. Immediate therapeutic treatment is indicated and even a successful initial treatment response does not necessarily prevent GvHD recurrence.