From pioneering to innovation: the history of hematopoietic stem cell transplantation at the Marcílio Dias Naval Hospital.

a história do transplante de células-tronco hematopoéticas no Hospital Naval Marcílio Dias.

Abstract

Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT), also known as bone marrow transplantation (BMT), plays a key role in the treatment of various hematologic diseases. The procedure aims to restore blood cell production through the infusion of hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs), which can be obtained from bone marrow, peripheral blood, or umbilical cord blood. Transplantation modalities include allogeneic, autologous, and syngeneic types. In Brazil, HSCT is regulated by the National Health Surveillance Agency (ANVISA), ensuring safety and quality standards. This article reports the experience of the Hospital Naval Marcílio Dias (HNMD) in implementing HSCT and discusses future perspectives for cellular therapies within the Brazilian Navy. It is a descriptive, retrospective account based on institutional records. In July 2013, HNMD was accredited to perform autologous transplants but lacked adequate infrastructure and trained personnel for cell cryopreservation. To overcome these limitations, a partnership was established with the Instituto Nacional doCancer (INCa), enabling professional training and the cryopreservation of HSCs. In 2021, following institutional investment and sanitary licensing, HNMD inaugurated its own cryopreservation laboratory, achieving self-sufficiency in the process. This trajectory illustrates the institution’s ability to overcome operational challenges through strategic partnerships, workforce development, and infrastructure enhancement. This achievement marks a pioneering milestone for the Brazilian Navy, expanding access to advanced therapies and contributing to improved patient outcomes. Furthermore, it strengthens the hospital's technical foundation, paving the way for future implementation of cellular therapies in the military healthcare setting.