Infectious complications after autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation for patients with an autoimmune indication: A protocol for a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Objectives: Autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (aHSCT) offers potential long-term remission for various autoimmune diseases, especially in patients unresponsive to conventional treatments. Notwithstanding its benefits, aHSCT carries risks from cytotoxic agents and temporary immunosuppression, leading to infectious complications. This systematic review focuses on the incidence and characteristics of infections in patients with autoimmune diseases undergoing aHSCT.