Organ Manifestation in cGVHD
Chronic graft-versus-host disease (cGVHD) is a multisystem disorder that can affect nearly every major organ system. Because organ involvement drives morbidity, mortality, and quality-of-life impairment, early recognition of affected systems and proactive supportive care are essential to optimize outcomes. Across all organ sites, infection, drug toxicity, and malignancy must be excluded before attributing findings to cGVHD.1,2
Key affected organ systems, associated risks, and supportive interventions
Clinical takeaway
Organ involvement in cGVHD directly determines nutritional status, infection risk, physical function, and survival. Optimal management requires:
- Early identification of organ involvement
- Multidisciplinary supportive care
- Targeted referrals (nutrition, physical therapy/occupation therapy [PT/OT], ophthalmology, gynecology, pulmonology, dermatology)
- Vigilant infection prevention and long-term surveillance
A proactive, organ-directed care approach is essential to reduce complications, preserve function, and improve quality of life in patients with cGVHD.
References
National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN). Hematopoietic cell transplantation. Version 2.2025. https://www.nccn.org/guidelines/guidelines-detail?category=3&id=1501Â Accessed 12/13/2025.
Filipovich AH, Weisdorf D, Pavletic S, et al. National Institutes of Health Consensus Development Project on criteria for clinical trials in chronic graft-versus-host disease: I. Diagnosis and Staging Working Group Report. Biol Blood Marrow Transplant. 2005;11(12):945-956. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bbmt.2005.09.004
