Ocular graft-versus-host disease (oGVHD): From AtoZ

Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation is a definitive therapy for a variety of disorders. One of the complications is acute graft-versus-host disease (aGVHD), which has a high mortality rate. Patients can also develop chronic graft-versus-host disease (cGVHD), a more indolent yet afflicting condition that affects up to 70% of patients. Ocular involvement (oGVHD) is one of the most prevalent presentations of cGVHD and can manifest as dry eye disease, meibomian gland dysfunction, keratitis, and conjunctivitis. Early recognition of oc-ular involvement using regular clinical assessments as well as robust biomarkers can aid in better management and prevention. Currently, the therapeutic strategies for the manage-ment of cGVHD, and oGVHD in particular, have mainly focused on the control of symptoms. There is an unmet need for translating the preclinical and molecular understandings of oGVHD into clinical practice. Herein, we have comprehensively reviewed the pathophysi-ology, pathologic features, and clinical characteristics of oGVHD and summarized the ther-apeutic landscape available to combat it. We also discuss the direction of future research regarding a more directed delineation of pathophysiologic underpinnings of oGVHD and the development of preventive interventions. & COPY; 2023 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Automated summary

Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation is an effective therapy for various disorders, but it can lead to acute and chronic graft-versus-host disease (GVHD). Ocular involvement is a common manifestation of chronic GVHD and requires early recognition for better management and prevention. Current therapeutic strategies mainly focus on symptom control, and there is a need to translate preclinical and molecular research into clinical practice.