Single vs double umbilical cord blood transplantation in acute leukemia: Systematic review and meta-analysis

Background and aims

Umbilical cord blood transplantation (UCBT) has emerged as a promising treatment option for patients with acute leukemia needing hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. Both single (sUCBT) and double cord blood units (dUCBT) demonstrate potential benefits, but studies comparing their effectiveness have shown mixed results. This meta-analysis aimed to determine the comparative safety and efficacy of sUCBT versus dUCBT in acute leukemia patients.

Methods

Electronic databases were systematically examined to identify relevant studies comparing single vs double UCBT published until November 2023. Nine studies involving 3864 acute leukemia patients undergoing UCBT were included. Outcomes analyzed were acute graft-versus-host disease (GVHD), chronic GVHD, relapse, non-relapse mortality, leukemia-free survival and overall survival. Pooled risk ratios (RR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated using a random effects model.

Results

The risk of Grade II-IV acute GVHD (RR 1.55, 95% CI 1.19–2.03) and Grade III-IV acute GVHD (RR 1.25, 95% CI 1.07–1.46) were significantly higher with dUCBT. Relapse risk was lower with dUCBT (RR 0.57, 95% CI 0.38–0.88) while overall survival favored sUCBT (RR 1.25, 95% CI 1.06–1.46). No significant differences were observed for chronic GVHD, non-relapse mortality or leukemia-free survival.

Conclusion

Both single and double UCBT have potential as effective treatments for acute leukemia. The choice of treatment should consider various factors, including the risk of GVHD, relapse, and mortality. More research, especially randomized trials, is needed to provide definitive guidance on the optimal use of single and double unit UCBT in patients with acute leukemia.