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A qualitative study on the experiences of autologous haematopoietic stem cell transplant for Multiple Sclerosis
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Date
2024-11-15
Authors
Davenport, Laura
McCauley, Mathew
Smyth, Liam
Reynolds, Audrey
Gaughan, Maria
Tubridy, Niall
McGuigan, Chris
O'Keeffe, Fiadhnait
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Elsevier B.V.
Published Version
Abstract
Aim: Autologous haematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) is an effective treatment for people with highly-active relapsing multiple sclerosis (MS), who are not adequately responding to disease-modifying therapies. To date, research has predominantly focused on disease-specific outcome measures. There is a lack of research exploring patient experiences of this complex treatment. The study aims to explore the experience of considering and receiving HSCT treatment for MS. Methods: Semi-structured interviews were conducted online with 12 adults with MS who had undergone HSCT treatment. Interview topics covered the experience of deciding on the treatment, the HSCT process itself, and the patient-reported outcomes following HSCT. Interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. A thematic analysis approach was employed. Results: Three main themes were identified: (1) Balancing hope and fear explores the decision-making experience when considering HSCT as a treatment; (2) Distinct emotional experience, highlights the unique challenges faced on all stages of the treatment journey; and (3) Adjusting to outcomes, explores how participants make sense of the aftermath of the treatment, including managing the ongoing uncertainty of MS and complications arising from HSCT. Discussion: HSCT is a complex treatment, both physically and psychologically for pwMS. A comprehensive and holistic care pathway is required to support people with MS at all stages of the treatment process, to ensure patient-centred planning and care.
Description
Keywords
Multiple sclerosis , Haematopoietic stem cell transplant , Qualitative , Neuropsychological outcomes , Patient experience
Citation
Davenport, L., McCauley, M., Smyth, L., Reynolds, A., Gaughan, M., Tubridy, N. and McGuigan, C. (2024) 'A qualitative study on the experiences of autologous haematopoietic stem cell transplant for Multiple Sclerosis', Multiple Sclerosis and Related Disorders, 92, 106165 (8pp). https://doi.org/10.1016/j.msard.2024.106165