A Prospective Study on Dissociative Experiences, Suicidal Ideation, and Predicting Factors During the Isolation Period of Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplant

The aim of the present study was to investigate suicidal ideation and dissociative experiences and to predict demographic and clinical risk factors during isolation periods in patients undergoing hematopoietic stem cell transplant. Our study included 61 consecutive stem cell recipients (29 autologous, 32 allogeneic). Patients were evaluated with the Suicidal Ideation Scale, Dissociative Experiences Scale, Hamilton Depression Scale, Hamilton Anxiety Scale, and State Trait Anxiety Inventory. The transplant procedure did not influence the Dissociative Experiences or Suicidal Ideation Scales (P > .05). However, patients had higher anxiety and depression levels at time of discharge (P < .001). Suicidal ideation scores were correlated with higher Hamilton Depression Scale, State Trait Anxiety Inventory, and Dissociative Experiences Scale scores on admission (P < .05), with the latter 2 scores also higher at the time of discharge in patients who received radiotherapy prior to transplant (P < .05). Suicidal ideation and dissociative experiences, which may emerge because of complex and traumatic processes, should be considered by clinicians. Social and psychological support should be provided for patients undergoing hematopoietic stem cell transplant.