A Combination of Pegfilgrastim and Filgrastim has No Benefit compared to Filgrastim alone for autologous Stem Cell Mobilization

Background: Autologous stem cell transplantation is an established therapy for various hematological malignancies. A precondition is the efficient and save mobilization of blood stem cells, which is achieved by treatment with granulocytecolony stimulating factors. Previously, it has been demonstrated that the pegylated form of filgrastim, pegfilgrastim, is comparable to filgrastim in the efficiency of stem cell mobilization. Here, we examine, whether a combination of pegfilgrastim and filgrastim exerts a benefit compared to filgrastim alone in safety and efficiency of autologous stem cell mobilization. Patients and methods: We retrospectively analyzed the data of 131 patients undergoing stem cell mobilization for autologous stem cell transplantation. The patients received filgrastim (n = 66) or pegfilgrastim and filgrastim (n = 65) for stem cell mobilization. Results: Infection rate, fever of unknown origin and stem cell harvest were similar in both groups. After autologous stem cell transplantation, time to neutrophil recovery was equal in both groups. Conclusion: Combination of filgrastim and pegfilgrastim is not superior in efficiency and safety of blood stem mobilization in unselected patients.