Decision-analytic modeling as a tool for selecting optimal therapy incorporating hematopoietic stem cell transplantation in patients with hematological malignancy

Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT) is the only curative treatment available for various hematological malignancies. Ideally, prospective randomized controlled trials (RCTs) should establish the indications for allo-HSCT. In reality, however, RCTs are not feasible due to the rarity of many hematological conditions. In these scenarios, decision analysis, which simulates possible outcomes with different approaches, can help in selecting the treatment strategy predicted to have the best result. Assessment of cost-effectiveness can also be incorporated in computational simulation analysis. In this review, we would like to provide an overview of decision-analytic models that evaluate alternative treatment strategies for patients with hematological malignancies.