Daclizumab, an efficient treatment for steroid‐refractory acute graft‐versus‐host disease

Summary In a phase II study, daclizumab was given as single second‐line agent to 62 patients with steroid‐refractory acute graft‐ versus ‐host disease (aGVHD). Complete resolution of aGVHD was achieved in 68·8% of patients. This response rate was significantly associated with a lower number of involved organs and smaller extent of skin involvement. The 4‐year event‐free survival (EFS) was 54·6%. Grade ≥III aGVHD, ≥2 involved organs at baseline and patient age >18 years were independently associated with lower EFS. Daclizumab could be a suitable alternative treatment for aGVHD, particularly when limited to the skin or gastrointestinal tract.