Present and future of hematology and stem cell transplantation in Morocco.

The first hematology department in Morocco was created in Casablanca in 1980 and it is still the only public facility where adult patients can be treated for hematological diseases. Two other units treat pediatric hematological disorders and cancer. Some patients are treated in private clinics located primarily in Casablanca and Rabat. The public hospitals have very limited resources and rely heavily on nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) for the care of these patients. The NGOs have also played an important role in developing successful cooperative programs with hospitals and groups in Europe and the United States. Till 2004, all patients who needed BMT and could afford the cost went to Europe. In 2004, SCT was initiated in Casablanca, with a four-bed ward set up and properly equipped. By May 2007, 27 patients have received autologous PBSCs. With 15 patients in continuous CR, the program is considered a success so far. The development of allogeneic transplantation in Morocco planned in the current year is also considered a real challenge.