Effects of ferritin, iron, transferrin saturation, folic acid, vitamin B12 levels on stem cell mobilization in patients undergoing autologous stem cell transplantation

Hematopoetic stem cell transplantation is a standard approach in the treatment of hematologic malignancies and certain benign disorders. Successful transplantation requires the collection of an adequate number of stem cells; therefore, the mobilization process plays a critical role. However, insufficient mobilization represents a major obstacle that can negatively affect treatment outcomes. In this study, clinical and laboratory parameters that may influence mobilization success prior to autologous transplantation were evaluated. Following ethics committee approval, 149 patients who underwent mobilization were included. Demographic characteristics such as age and sex, along with disease-related data including diagnosis, remission status, time from diagnosis to mobilization, type and number of previous treatments, mobilization regimens, bone marrow findings, history of radiotherapy, and presence of secondary malignancy were recorded. Laboratory findings such as complete blood count, CRP, ferritin, iron, transferrin saturation, folate, and vitamin B12 levels were also analyzed. Mobilization failure was observed in 27 patients. Evaluation showed that elevated ferritin levels significantly impaired mobilization success and increased the number of required apheresis sessions. Low platelet count was identified as another important risk factor for failed mobilization. Higher body mass index was associated with improved mobilization, and patients with higher folate levels demonstrated better outcomes. In conclusion, stem cell mobilization success is influenced by multiple factors. Our study suggests that careful evaluation of pre-mobilization laboratory parameters may contribute to the development of individualized strategies.