• Ross Penglase, Laila Girgis, Helen Englert, David Ma, and John Moore.
• Department of Rheumatology, St Vincent's Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.
• Intern Med J. 2024 Sep 1; 54 (9): 147814821478-1482.

BackgroundAutologous haemopoietic stem cell transplantation (AHSCT) is an effective treatment for systemic sclerosis (SSc); however, treatment-related toxicity remains a key issue.AimsTo investigate the perceptions of rheumatologists on the use of AHSCT for SSc.MethodsAustralian rheumatologists were asked for their opinion on the role of AHSCT, the indications for treatment and the barriers to the use of AHSCT for SSc. A secondary analysis assessed what factors influenced the perception of AHSCT.ResultsA total of 77.8% rheumatologists agreed or strongly agreed with the statement that AHSCT is an accepted treatment for SSc. While 65.1% agreed or strongly agreed that treatment-associated mortality was a significant barrier to referral for AHSCT, only 15.2% agreed or strongly agreed that this risk was unacceptable. Progressive lung or skin disease, or lack of response to other therapies, were considered the main referral criteria. A total of 92.0% of respondents agreed or strongly agreed that reduction of treatment toxicity would increase their likelihood to refer patients for AHSCT. Rheumatologists who were aware of the correct evidence base were more likely to consider AHSCT an acceptable treatment for SSc (4.21 ± 0.7 vs 3.64 ± 0.9, P = 0.007). Rheumatologists desire improved patient selection criteria and access to treatment.ConclusionIn this national survey of rheumatologists, AHSCT is considered an accepted therapy. However, concern about toxicity remains a potential barrier to patient referral. Access, studies to refine patient selection and development of AHSCT protocols that improve safety were identified as key areas of need.© 2024 The Author(s). Internal Medicine Journal published by John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd on behalf of Royal Australasian College of Physicians.

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