Autologous stem-cell transplantation in refractory autoimmune diseases after in vivo immunoablation and ex vivo depletion of mononuclear cells

Autoimmune diseases that are resistant to conventional treatment cause seve re morbidity and even mortality. In the present study we demonstrate that c omplete remissions can be achieved in refractory polychondritis and systemi c lupus erythematosus (SLE), even at advanced stage, with the use of autolo gous stem-cell transplantation (SCT). Remissions persisted after reconstitu tion of the immune system. In the treatment of advanced systemic sclerosis (SSc), stable disease may be achieved with autologous SCT.