Reeling in complement in transplant-associated thrombotic microangiopathy: You're going to need a bigger boat

Abstract

Over the last decade there have been numerous advances in both the diagnosis and treatment of transplant-associated thrombotic microangiopathy (TA-TMA). These are largely the result of an improved understanding of complement activation in TA-TMA and the ability to prevent end organ injury and death with timely initiation of complement-blocking therapies. In this article, we review our current understanding of the pathophysiology of TA-TMA, particularly as it pertains to complement activation, endothelial injury, and clinical management. We then review novel complement-blocking therapies that are currently under investigation for use in TA-TMA, as well as discuss special considerations for complement-blocking therapy in hematopoietic stem cell transplant recipients. Through these reviews we aim to answer or at least provide an educated discussion on the most commonly posed TA-TMA management questions and dilemmas.