OBJECTIVETo evaluate the efficacy of treatment with allogeneic peripheral blood stem cell transplantation for benzene-induced severe aplastic anemia.

METHODSHLA-compatible sibling (pregnancy) allogeneic peripheral blood stem cell transplantation (Allo-PBSCT) was successfully performed for a patient with severe aplastic anemia caused by benzene poisoning. 9.41 x 10(8) nucleated cells/kg, 12.49 x 10(6) CD(34) positive cells/kg and CFU-GM 8.2 x 10(5)/kg were infused. The patient was treated with cyclophosphamide (120 mg/kg), total body radiation (8 Gy) and anti-lymphocyte globulin (60 mg/kg) before transplantation. Donor buffy coat cells (9.02 x 10(8) nucleated cells/kg, 10.62 x 10(6) CD(34) positive cells/kg, 6.3 x 10(5) CFU-GM/kg) were infused again on day 18 after transplantation to prevent from graft failure. Graft versus host disease prophylaxis consisted of both methotrexate and cyclosporin A.

RESULTSThe lowest ANC was 0, the lowest platelet was 3 x 10(9)/L after transplantation. The patient achieved an ANC of greater than 0.5 x 10(9)/L from 21st day, and the platelet of greater than 50 x 10(9)/L from 28th day after transplantation. Grade I cGVHD was found the fourth month after grafting. Examination of recipient's bone marrow cells showed a normal 46, XX (presumably marrow donor) karyotype. Blood group changed from B to O.

CONCLUSIONThis is the first case reported in China showing a successful treatment of benzene-induced severe aplastic anemia with allo-PBSCT. Allo-PBSCT may be an effective remedy for this kind of patients.