Serial values of hematologic variables and deep venous thrombosis: Red cell distribution width is associated with deep venous thrombosis

Abstract Introduction As 30 to 50% of deep venous thrombosis (DVT) cases remain idiopathic, an increased focus on hematologic variables may therefore reveal novel correlates of DVT. Very few studies have investigated the association of hematological parameters with DVT and the causal relationship between them is still to be elucidated. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the association between serial values of hematologic variables and DVT. Methods Complete blood count parameters were serially measured at baseline and then at approximately 3-month intervals for 12 months in 152 adults with the first episode of DVT and 152 age- and sex-matched controls. The odds ratio (OR) with the 95% confidence interval (95%CI) was calculated as a measure of association between hematological parameters and DVT. Results The red cell distribution width (RDW) was the only hematologic variable which showed an independent and consistent association with DVT at all time points (multivariable-adjusted OR [95%CI] 3.38 [1.28 - 8.91] at baseline, 2.24 [0.85 - 5.92] at 3 months and 2.12 [0.81 - 5.55] at 12 months for RDW > 14.0%). This association was higher for provoked DVT than unprovoked DVT and for DVT plus pulmonary embolism than DVT alone. No significant correlation was found between the high RDW and classical thrombotic risk factors, except malignancy. Conclusions We demonstrated an independent and consistent association of the high RDW with the first episode of DVT in adult patients. The study was probably underpowered to evaluate the association between the high RDW and recurrent DVT. Further large studies with long follow-up are needed to confirm this association.

Evaluation of secondary malignancies in a large series of mycosis fungoides

Abstract Background An increased risk of Secondary Malignancies (SMs) in Mycosis Fungoides (MF) has been suggested previously. However, the relationship between this risk and the features of MF is not well-known. Objective To investigate the rate and types of SMs in a large cohort of MF patients focusing on the associated features of these patients. Methods The demographic features, subtype, and stage of MF, as well as the temporal relationship between the diagnosis of MF and the development of SMs were determined. Major clinical features of MF in this group were compared with MF patients without association of SMs. Results Among 730 MF patients with a mean follow-up period of 67.9 ± 52.4 months, 56 SMs were identified in a total of 52 (7.1%) patients. While 28.8% of patients were previously diagnosed with other malignancies, then subsequently had a diagnosis of MF, it was vice versa in 53.8% of patients. Most of the SM-associated MF patients had early-stage (80.7%) and classical type of MF (86.5%) without a significant difference from MF patients without association of SMs; 85.5% and 72.5%, respectively. The most commonly identified SMs were hematologic malignancies (64.3%) including lymphomatoid papulosis (n = 22), Hodgkin's lymphoma (n = 4), non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (n = 5), polycythemia vera (n = 2). Other most commonly associated malignancies were breast cancer (n = 4), prostate cancer (n = 3), renal cell carcinoma (n = 2), melanoma (n = 2), and Kaposi's sarcoma (n = 2). Study limitations A single tertiary dermatology center study with a retrospective design. Conclusion Apart from the well-known lymphomatoid papulosis association, systemic hematological malignancies were also quite common in the large cohort of MF patients.

Estudio del líquido cefalorraquídeo en pacientes con neoplasias hematológicas malignas / Study of cerebrospinal fluid in patients with hematologic malignancies

Introducción: La infiltración del sistema nervioso central por células malignas constituye una complicación grave de algunas neoplasias hematológicas, principalmente leucemias agudas y linfomas agresivos. Objetivo: Resumir la base científica y la significación clínica de los métodos de estudio del líquido cefalorraquídeo para el diagnóstico y el seguimiento de la infiltración neuromeníngea en pacientes con neoplasias hematológicas. Métodos: Se buscó información durante abril de 2021 en las bases de datos PubMed, ScienceDirect y SciELO. Se seleccionaron las publicaciones en base a su tipología, actualidad, alcance y las limitaciones de los estudios. Conclusiones: El estudio citomorfológico del líquido cefalorraquídeo se considera el método estándar para el diagnóstico y el seguimiento de la infiltración neuromeníngea. La citometría de flujo resulta más sensible para la detección de infiltración oculta que la citología convencional; pero aún existen reservas sobre su significación clínica. Se investiga también la sensibilidad de otros estudios moleculares como el uso de la reacción en cadena de la polimerasa y la detección de biomarcadores(AU)

Introduction: Infiltration of the central nervous system by malignant cells constitutes a serious complication of some hematological malignancies, mainly acute leukemias and aggressive lymphomas. Objective: To summarize the scientific basis and clinical significance of cerebrospinal fluid study methods for the diagnosis and follow-up of neuromeningeal infiltration in patients with hematologic malignancies. Methods: Information was searched during April 2021 in PubMed, ScienceDirect and SciELO databases. Publications were selected based on their typology, timeliness, scope, and study limitations. Conclusions: The cytomorphological study of cerebrospinal fluid is considered the standard method for the diagnosis and follow-up of neuromeningeal infiltration. Flow cytometry is more sensitive for the detection of occult infiltration than conventional cytology, but there are still reservations about its clinical significance. The sensitivity of other molecular studies such as the use of PCR and biomarker detection is also investigated(AU)

Cycle threshold predicted mortality in a cohort of patients with hematologic malignancies infected with SARS-CoV-2 / El umbral de ciclado predijo la mortalidad en una cohorte de pacientes conneoplasias hematológicas infectados con SARS-CoV-2 / Microbiología clinica y enfermedades infecciosas

Abstract When a SARS-CoV-2 RT-qPCR test is performed, it may determine an indirect measureof viral load called cycle threshold (Ct). Respiratory samples with Ct <25.0 cycles are consideredto contain a high viral load. We aimed to determine whether SARS-CoV-2 Ct at diagnosis couldpredict mortality in patients with hematologic malignancies (lymphomas, leukemias, multiplemyeloma) who contracted COVID-19. We included 35 adults with COVID-19 confirmed by RT-qPCR performed at diagnosis. We evaluated mortality due to COVID-19 rather than mortalitydue to the hematologic neoplasm or all-cause mortality. Twenty-seven (27) patients survivedand 8 died. The global mean Ct was 22.8 cycles with a median of 21.7. Among the survivors,the mean Ct was 24.2, and the median Ct value was 22.9 cycles. In the deceased patients, themean Ct was 18.0 and the median Ct value was 17.0 cycles. Using the Wilcoxon Rank Sum test,we found a significant difference (p = 0.035). SARS-CoV-2 Ct measured in nasal swabs obtainedat diagnosis from patients with hematologic malignancies may be used to predict mortality.

Resumen Cuando se realiza una RT-qPCR para SARS-CoV-2, es posible determinar una medidaindirecta de la carga viral llamada umbral de ciclado (Ct). Las muestras respiratorias con Ct<25,0 ciclos se consideran de alta carga viral. Nos propusimos determinar si el Ct para SARS-CoV-2 al diagnóstico predice la mortalidad en pacientes con neoplasias hematológicas (linfomas,leucemias, mielomas) que contrajeron COVID-19. Incluimos 35 adultos con COVID-19 confirmadopor RT-qPCR al diagnóstico. Evaluamos la mortalidad por COVID-19, no la mortalidad por la neo-plasia hematológica o la mortalidad por cualquier causa. De los 35 pacientes, 27 sobrevivierony 8 fallecieron. El Ct global medio fue 22,8 ciclos con una mediana de 21,7 ciclos. Entre lossobrevivientes, el Ct medio fue 24,2 ciclos con una mediana de 22,9 ciclos. Entre los fallecidos,el Ct medio fue 18,0 y el Ct mediano fue 17,0 ciclos. Empleando la prueba de suma de rangosde Wilcoxon, encontramos una diferencia significative (p = 0,035). En pacientes con neoplasiashematológicas infectados con coronavirus, el Ct de SARS-CoV-2 medido en hisopados nasales almomento del diagnóstico podría ser utilizado para predecir la mortalidad.

Hematologic malignancies of primary bone marrow involvement: a decade's experience in Bahrain

ABSTRACT Introduction: The data on the pattern of primary hematologic malignancies in Bahrain is sparse, although previously published studies suggested rising trends in their incidence. This study aimed to compare with regional and world data and identify any changing trends. Methods: A retrospective cross-sectional chart analysis study was done on all cases of primary hematologic malignancies of bone marrow origin of Bahraini nationals presenting during the 10-year period from January 2005 to December 2014 at the sole oncology referral center in Bahrain during the study period. Results: In a total of 272 cases, the primary hematologic malignancies in decreasing order of frequency with respective median ages at diagnosis were: acute myeloid leukemia (AML; 26.1%, 39 years), acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL; 22.8%, 9 years), multiple myeloma (MM, 16.2%, 57 years), chronic myeloid leukemia (CML, 14%, 39.5 years), myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS; 12.5%, 56 years) and chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL; 5.5%, 65 years). The overall crude annual incidence rate of these malignancies was 4.8/105 population. Age-specific incidence rates were found to increase dramatically with age, except for ALL, for which it peaked in the pediatric age group. The age-standardized incidence rates (ASIRs) per 105 per year were 1.47 (AML), 1.13 (MM), 0.93 (ALL), 0.85 (MDS), 0.81 (CML) and 0.44 (CLL). Conclusion: The pattern of primary hematologic malignancies in Bahrain shows unique features that distinguish it from trends reported in Eastern and Western world populations.

Respuesta inmunológica a la vacunación y riesgo de COVID-19 en adultos con neoplasias hematológicas / Immunological response to vaccination and risk of COVID-19 in adults with hematological malignancies

Los pacientes con malignidades hematológicas tienen un riesgo más alto de hospitalización, admisión a cuidado crítico y muerte cuando contraen COVID-19. En este grupo se ha propuesto la vacunación y los refuerzos para disminuir el riesgo de complicaciones. Sin embargo, es posible ver una pobre respuesta humoral y celular a las vacunas. En esta revisión se presenta la evidencia sobre la respuesta a la vacunación, poniendo de presente algunas patologías y tratamientos que pueden disminuirla de forma significativa. Los pacientes con neoplasias hematológicas se deben considerar en riesgo de complicaciones, incluso después de haber sido vacunados de forma completa y haber recibido los refuerzos. Se debe mantener la vigilancia de forma estrecha después de haber sido vacunados y evaluar la posibilidad de otras estrategias (medicamentos, anticuerpos monoclonales) para la prevención o el manejo de COVID-19.

Patients with hematological malignancies have a higher risk of hospital admission, critical care and death when they suffer from COVID-19. In this group of patients, vaccination and boosters have been proposed to mitigate the risk of complications. However, it is possible to observe a diminished rate of humoral and cellular response. In this review, evidence is shown about the response to COVID-19 vaccination, considering some specific pathologies and treatments that can affect such response in a significant account. Patients with malignant neoplasm must be considered at risk of COVID-19 complications, even after a complete vaccine schedule and boosters. Surveillance must be maintained after vaccination over these patients and other strategies must be considered (drugs, monoclonal antibodies) for prevention and management of COVID-19.

La citometría de flujo aumenta la proporción de muestras valorables en líquido cefalorraquídeo con recuento celular normal en hemopatías malignas

Introducción: El compromiso del líquido cefalorraquídeo (LCR) en hemopatías malignas es un marcador de mal pronóstico y es habitualmente estudiado por citometría de flujo o citología. Ocasionalmente, las muestras de LCR oligocelulares (≤ 5 céls/dL) pueden ser consideradas como no aptas para diagnóstico por la baja cantidad de eventos. Objetivo: Evaluar la proporción de muestras reportadas como valorables para diagnóstico obtenidas por citometría y citología en muestras de LCR oligocelular. Material y Métodos: Se seleccionaron 169 muestras de LCR oligocelular correspondientes a 115 pacientes con hemopatías malignas. Las muestras fueron obtenidas mediante punción lumbar en tubos acondicionados con EDTA y preservante celular (Transfix®). El inmunofenotipo se realizó con panel de 8 colores, 55 (32%) de las cuales se hizo con panel para pequeñas muestras (SST). En todos los casos se incluyó CD14 para identificación de monocitos y CD3 para linfocitos T. La adquisición se realizó en citómetro FACSCantoII® y el análisis en software Infinicyt®. Resultados: La proporción de muestras valorables fue mayor en citometría en comparación con la citología (98% vs 61%, p < 0,000). En la mayoría se identificaron linfocitos T (98%) y/o monocitos (90%). En las muestras con SST, la cantidad de eventos obtenida fue menor en muestras con < de 1 mL (140 vs 556, p < 0,001) y se logró identificar una mediana de 3 poblaciones celulares. Conclusión: La citometría proporciona una mayor cantidad de muestras valorables en los LCR paucicelulares en relación con la citología en muestras de LCR enviadas para estudio de compromiso de LCR por hemopatías malignas.

Background: The alteration of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in hematologic neoplasms is a poor prognostic marker. The characteristics of CSF are usually analyzed by flow cytometry or cytology. However, paucicellular CSF samples (≤5 cells/dL) can sometimes be considered unsuitable for analysis due to the low number of events. Objective: To evaluate the proportion of samples reported as suitable for analysis obtained by cytometry (FCM) and cytology in paucicellular CSF samples. Material and Methods: 169 samples ofpaucicellular CSF corresponding to 115 patients with hematologic neoplasms were selected. The samples were obtained by lumbar puncture in tubes conditioned with EDTA and Transfix®. We characterized the immunophenotype ofCSF samples with an 8-color panel, and 55 samples (32%) were in a small sample tube (SST). In all cases, monocytes were identified by CD14 labeling and T lymphocytes by CD3 labeling. The acquisition was carried out in a FACSCantoII® cytometer, and the analysis was performed using Infinicyt® software. Results: The proportion of samples suitable for analysis was higher in FCM compared to cytology (98% vs 61%, p < 0.000). We identified the presence of T lymphocytes and/or monocytes in most samples (98% and 90%, respectively). In the SST samples, the number of events recorded in low-volume samples (< 1 mL) was lower than in samples with higher volume (140 vs 556, p < 0.001), with a median of identification of 3 cell populations. Conclusion: FCM allows the analysis of a higher proportion ofpaucicellular CSF samples than cytology in hematologic neoplasms study.

Polimorfismos genéticos implicados en el desarrollo de la purpura trombocitopénica inmune / Genetic polymorphisms involved in the development of Immune Thrombocytopenic Purpura

Introducción: los cambios en el ácido desoxirribonucleico se conocen como mutaciones, estas dan lugar a los polimorfismos, los cuales generan variación alélica entre individuos y diversidad de la misma especie. Se ha sugerido que los polimorfismos genéticos en los mediadores inmunitarios desempeñan un papel fundamental en la patogénesis de muchos trastornos autoinmunes, como en la púrpura trombocitopénica inmune, siendo esta el tipo más común de púrpura trombocitopénica y, a menudo, se diagnostica como un tipo de trastorno autoinmune, debido a la destrucción de las plaquetas mediadas por el sistema inmunitario. Objetivo: realizar una revisión bibliográfica sobre el papel de los polimorfismos genéticos y su influencia en el desarrollo de la púrpura trombocitopénica inmune. Métodos: se realizó revisión literaria en inglés y español en PubMed y Elsevier, desde marzo hasta mayo del 2021, con el uso de combinación de palabras clave y términos MeSH, como púrpura trombocitopénica y polimorfismos genéticos. Se realizó análisis y resumen de la literatura encontrada. Conclusión: la púrpura trombocitopénica inmune es considerada como una patología multifactorial, causada por factores ambientales y genéticos, dentro de los cuales se encuentran los polimorfismos para los mediadores inmunitarios que pueden llevar a una exacerbación de la enfermedad o no intervenir en la misma.

Introduction: Changes in deoxyribonucleic acid are known as mutations, these give place to polymorphisms, which generate allelic variation between individuals and provide diversity among same species. Genetic polymorphisms in immune mediators have been suggested to play a key role in the pathogenesis of many autoimmune disorders, such as immune thrombocytopenic purpura, this being the most common type of thrombocytopenic purpura and is often diagnosed as a type of autoimmune disorder, due to the destruction of platelets mediated by the immune system. Objective: To execute a bibliographic review on the role of genetic polymorphisms and their influence on the development of immune thrombocytopenic purpura. Methods: A literary review in English and Spanish was performed in PubMed and Elsevier from March to May 2021, with the use of a combination of keywords and MeSH terms such as Thrombocytopenic Purpura and genetic polymorphisms. Analysis and summary of the literature found was executed. Conclusion: Immune thrombocytopenic purpura is considered a multifactorial pathology, caused by environmental and genetic factors, among which are polymorphisms for immune mediators that can lead to an exacerbation of the disease or not intervene in the same.

Oral Mucositis in Children with Leukemia Undergoing Chemotherapy: A Case Series

ABSTRACT Objective: To report nine cases of pediatric patients with Acute Lymphoid Leukemia (ALL) or Acute Myeloid Leukemia who developed severe oral mucositis (SOM) at the first week of chemotherapy. Material and Methods: The cases were selected from a sample of 105 children followed for 10 consecutive weeks. Hematological and personal data were obtained from the patient's medical records. The oral cavity was examined weekly using the modified Oral Assessment Guide. Results: More of the patients were male (55.6%), had black/brown skin (55.6%), with ALL (66.7%), and the mean age was 5.55. Two patients had values below normal for leukocytes, platelets, and creatinine over the follow-up. However, all patients showed changes in the normality of hematological data in most weeks. The most used chemotherapeutic agents were aracytin, etoposide, and methotrexate, known for their high stomatotoxic potential. Patients had 2 to 6 (mean of 4) episodes of SOM and 4 to 7 (mean of 5.5) episodes of OM. One patient at week 7, one patient at week 5, and one patient at weeks 2 and 10 did not have OM. Saliva (84 times) and lips (44 times) were the most affected items. Conclusion: The patients showed oscillations in the severity of oral mucositis and hematological parameters over the follow-up. All patients were exposed to stomatotoxic drugs during the initial phase of cancer treatment.

Elements for assistance to patients with hematological malignancies to propose care lines: a scoping review / Elementos de asistencia a pacientes con neoplasias hematológicas para proponer líneas de atención: revisión de alcance / Elementos para assistência a pacientes com neoplasias hematológicas para propor linhas de cuidado: scoping review

ABSTRACT Objectives: to identify the elements for assistance to patients with hematological malignancies to propose a care line. Methods: this is a scoping review, anchored in the JBI theoretical framework, with searches carried out in April 2021, in eight electronic databases and 10 repositories of theses and dissertations. Results: the final sample consisted of 93 studies, and the main forms of assistance provided that can support a care line for this public were imaging tests, immunophenotyping, chemotherapy regimens, radiotherapy, infection management, assessment of nutritional status, maintenance of oral function, symptom management and screening for second malignancies. Conclusions: the elaboration of a care line for onco-hematologic patients is necessary, considering the complexity surrounding the diagnosis and treatment of hematologic malignancies, in addition to the difficulties that are imposed in relation to access and continuity of care in the network.

RESUMEN Objetivos: identificar los elementos para la asistencia a pacientes con neoplasias hematológicas para proponer una línea de atención. Métodos: se trata de una revisión de alcance, anclada en el marco teórico del JBI, con búsquedas realizadas en abril de 2021 en ocho bases de datos electrónicas y 10 repositorios de tesis y disertaciones. Resultados: la muestra final estuvo compuesta por 93 estudios, y las principales formas de asistencia brindadas que pueden sustentar una línea de atención a este público fueron pruebas de imagen, inmunofenotipificación, regímenes de quimioterapia, radioterapia, manejo de infecciones, evaluación del estado nutricional, mantenimiento de la función oral, manejo de síntomas y detección de segundas neoplasias malignas. Conclusiones: es necesario el desarrollo de una línea de atención al paciente oncohematológico, dada la complejidad que rodea al diagnóstico y tratamiento de las neoplasias hematológicas, además de las dificultades que se imponen en relación al acceso y continuidad de la atención en una red.

RESUMO Objetivos: identificar os elementos para assistência a pacientes com neoplasias hematológicas para propor uma linha de cuidado. Métodos: trata-se de uma scoping review, ancorada no referencial teórico do JBI, com buscas realizadas em abril de 2021 em oito bases de dados eletrônicas e 10 repositórios de teses e dissertações. Resultados: a amostra final foi composta por 93 estudos, e as principais formas de assistências prestadas que podem embasar uma linha de cuidado para esse público foram exames de imagem, imunofenotipagem, regimes quimioterápicos, radioterapia, gestão de infecções, avaliação do estado nutricional, manutenção da função oral, gerenciamento de sintomas e rastreio para segundas neoplasias. Conclusões: a elaboração de uma linha de cuidados para pacientes onco-hematológicos se faz necessária, tendo em vista a complexidade que cerca o diagnóstico e tratamento das neoplasias hematológicas, além das dificuldades que se impõem em relação ao acesso e continuidade do cuidado em rede.

Plasma Calcium Level and C-Reactive Protein Albumin Ratio Affect Severe Bleeding After Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting

ABSTRACT Objective: In this study, we aimed to determine whether plasma calcium level and C-reactive protein albumin ratio (CAR) as well as other demographic and hematological markers are related in predicting severe bleeding after coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). Methods: A total of 227 adult patients who underwent CABG at our hospital between December 2021 and June 2022 were prospectively studied. Total amount of chest tube drainage was evaluated within the first 24 hours postoperatively or until the patient was re-explored for bleeding. The patients were divided into two groups - Group 1, patients with low amount of bleeding (n=174), and Group 2, patients with severe bleeding (n=53). Univariate and multivariate regression analyzes were performed to determine independent parameters related to severe bleeding within the first 24 hours after surgery. Results: When the groups were compared in terms of demographic, clinical, and preoperative blood parameters; cardiopulmonary bypass time and serum C-reactive protein (CRP) levels were found to be significantly higher in Group 2 compared to the low bleeding group. In addition, lymphocytes, hemoglobin, calcium, albumin, and CAR were found to be significantly lower in Group 2. In multivariate analysis, calcium, albumin, CRP, and CAR were found to be independent predictors of significant association with excessive bleeding. A cut-off value of 8.7 (94.3% sensitivity and 94.8% specificity) for calcium and 0.155 (75.4% sensitivity and 80.4% specificity) for CAR predicted excessive bleeding. Conclusion: Plasma calcium level, CRP, albumin, and CAR can be used to predict severe bleeding after CABG.

To compare the efficacy and incidence of severe hematological adverse events of flumatinib and imatinib in patients newly diagnosed with chronic phase chronic myeloid leukemia / 中华血液学杂志

Objective: To analyze and compare therapy responses, outcomes, and incidence of severe hematologic adverse events of flumatinib and imatinib in patients newly diagnosed with chronic phase chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) . Methods: Data of patients with chronic phase CML diagnosed between January 2006 and November 2022 from 76 centers, aged ≥18 years, and received initial flumatinib or imatinib therapy within 6 months after diagnosis in China were retrospectively interrogated. Propensity score matching (PSM) analysis was performed to reduce the bias of the initial TKI selection, and the therapy responses and outcomes of patients receiving initial flumatinib or imatinib therapy were compared. Results: A total of 4 833 adult patients with CML receiving initial imatinib (n=4 380) or flumatinib (n=453) therapy were included in the study. In the imatinib cohort, the median follow-up time was 54 [interquartile range (IQR), 31-85] months, and the 7-year cumulative incidences of CCyR, MMR, MR(4), and MR(4.5) were 95.2%, 88.4%, 78.3%, and 63.0%, respectively. The 7-year FFS, PFS, and OS rates were 71.8%, 93.0%, and 96.9%, respectively. With the median follow-up of 18 (IQR, 13-25) months in the flumatinib cohort, the 2-year cumulative incidences of CCyR, MMR, MR(4), and MR(4.5) were 95.4%, 86.5%, 58.4%, and 46.6%, respectively. The 2-year FFS, PFS, and OS rates were 80.1%, 95.0%, and 99.5%, respectively. The PSM analysis indicated that patients receiving initial flumatinib therapy had significantly higher cumulative incidences of CCyR, MMR, MR(4), and MR(4.5) and higher probabilities of FFS than those receiving the initial imatinib therapy (all P<0.001), whereas the PFS (P=0.230) and OS (P=0.268) were comparable between the two cohorts. The incidence of severe hematologic adverse events (grade≥Ⅲ) was comparable in the two cohorts. Conclusion: Patients receiving initial flumatinib therapy had higher cumulative incidences of therapy responses and higher probability of FFS than those receiving initial imatinib therapy, whereas the incidence of severe hematologic adverse events was comparable between the two cohorts.

Clinical Characteristics and Risk Factors for 30-Day Mortality in Patients with Hematologic Diseases Infected by Carbapenem-Resistant Organisms / 中国实验血液学杂志

OBJECTIVE@#To explore the clinical characteristics of hospitalized patients with hematologic diseases complicated with carbapenem-resistant organisms (CRO) infection and analyze the risk factors of 30-day all-cause mortality.@*METHODS@#The clinical data and laboratory test data of 77 hospitalized patients with hematologic diseases complicated with CRO infection in department of hematology of the Third Hospital of Shanxi Medical University from January 2015 to December 2020 were retrospectively analysed, the risk factors of 30-day all-cause mortality after CRO infection were analyzed by multivariate logistic regression.@*RESULTS@#Among the total of 77 patients with hematologic diseases complicated with CRO infection, 29 died and 48 survived within 30 days of infection, with a case fatality rate of 37.66%. A total of 93 strains of CRO were isolated from these patients, of which Acinetobacter baumannii had the highest detection rate (25.81%, 24/93), followed by Pseudomonas aeruginosa (18.28%, 17/93). The lung was the most common site of CRO infection. The detected pathogens were highly resistant to carbapenems, and 64.52% (60/93) of the pathogens were resistant to imipenem with minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC)≥16 μg/ml. The results of the univariate analysis showed that albumin concentration <25 g/L (P =0.048), serum creatinine concentration≥120 μmol/L (P =0.023), age-adjusted Charlson comorbidity index (ACCI) (P =0.037) and primary treatments (supportive treatment, immunosuppressive therapy, chemotherapy, HSCT) (P =0.048) were significantly associated with 30-day all-cause mortality after infection. The results of multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that when CRO infection confirmed, albumin concentration <25 g/L (P =0.014, OR=6.171), serum creatinine concentration≥120 μmol/L (P =0.009, OR=10.867) were independent risk factors for 30-day mortality of patients with hematologic diseases complicated with CRO infection.@*CONCLUSION@#The mortality rate of CRO-infected patients with hematologic diseases is high. The detected pathogenic bacteria are highly resistant to imipenem. The albumin concentration <25 g/L and the serum creatinine concentration≥ 120 μmol/L at diagnosis of CRO infection were independent risk factors for 30-day mortality of the patients with hematologic diseases.

Pathogenic characteristics of bloodstream infections in patients with hematological diseases and the impact of stem cell transplantation on them / 中国热带医学

@#Abstract: Objective To investigate the epidemiological characteristics of pathogens causing bloodstream infection in hematology patients during treatment and to compare the effects of allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) on them, so as to provide evidence for the diagnosis and treatment of bloodstream infection. Methods A total of 292 cases with bloodstream infection in hematology wards of the PLA General Hospital were collected from 2017 to 2021, which were divided into HSCT group and N-HSCT group according to whether performed HSCT or not. The epidemiological characteristics and influence of pathogenic bacteria in blood stream infection were analyzed and compared between the two groups. Results A total of 362 strains of pathogenic bacteria were collected from 292 cases, including 106 strains in HSCT group (84 cases) and 256 strains in N-HSCT group (208 cases). Bloodstream infections were more common in acute myeloid leukemia (130/392, 44.52%), followed by non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (74/292, 25.34%). The rate of once bloodstream infection in HSCT group was higher than that in N-HSCT Group, but the rate of twice bloodstream infections in N-HSCT group was higher. Gram-negative Bacilli were the most common pathogens (56.08%), with Escherichia coli being absolutely dominant (109/362, 30.11%), followed by Klebsiella pneumoniae (39/362, 10.77%). Coagulase-negative staphylococci (CoNS) (107/362, 29.56%) were the most common Gram-positive cocci. The detection rate of fungi in HSCT group (10/106, 9.43%) was significantly higher than that in N-HSCT Group (3.52%). The drug resistance rate of the common pathogenic bacteria was at a high level, and there was a certain proportion of multi-drug resistant strains (except for Pseudomonas aeruginosa). The resistance rates of CoNS to penicillin, gentamicin, moxifloxacin, clindamycin and rifampicin in HSCT group were higher than those in N-HSCT Group. The resistance rate of Escherichia coli to piperacillin/tazobactam, cephalosporins and etapenem in HSCT group was significantly higher than that in N-HSCT group. Conclusions The pathogens of blood stream infection in hematology patients are complicated and various. It is difficult for clinical diagnosis and treatment to detect multiple infections and multiple pathogens. HSCT patients have a higher risk of fungal bloodstream infection and more multi-drug resistant strains detected. Therefore, the identification of bloodstream infection and multi-drug resistant strains associated with HSCT patients should prompt surveillance.

Research Progress of Long Non-Coding RNA in Hematological Tumors --Review / 中国实验血液学杂志

Long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) is a hot topic in the field of researching tumor pathogenesis, and the importance in hematologic malignancies has been gradually being elucidated. LncRNA not only regulates hematological tumorigenesis and progression through affecting various biological processes such as cell proliferation, differentiation, pluripotency and apoptosis; moreover, abnormal expression and mutation of lncRNA are closely related to drug resistance and prognosis. Thus lncRNA can be used as novel biomarker and potential therapeutic target for hematological tumors. In this review, we will focus on the latest progress of lncRNA in hematological tumors to provide new ideas for the clinical diagnosis, prognostic evaluation together with research and development of target drugs for hematologic malignancies.

Clinical characteristics and CT findings of Pneumocystis Jirovecii pneumonia in 46 cases with hematological diseases / 中华血液学杂志

Objective: To summarize the original CT features of Pneumocystis Jirovecii pneumonia in patients with hematological diseases. Methods: A retrospective analysis was carried out in 46 patients with proven pneumocystis pneumonia (PJP) in the Hospital of Hematology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences between January 2014 and December 2021. All patients had multiple chests CT and related laboratory examinations, imaging typing were conducted based on the initial CT presentation, and the distinct imaging types were analyzed against the clinical data. Results: In the analysis, there were 46 patients with proven pathogenesis, 33 males, and 13 females, with a median age of 37.5 (2-65) years. The diagnosis was validated by bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) hexamine silver staining in 11 patients and clinically diagnosed in 35 cases. Of the 35 clinically diagnosed patients, 16 were diagnosed by alveolar lavage fluid macrogenomic sequencing (BALF-mNGS) and 19 by peripheral blood macrogenomic sequencing (PB-mNGS) . The initial chest CT presentation was categorized into 4 types, including ground glass (GGO) type in 25 cases (56.5%) , nodular type in 10 cases (21.7%) , fibrosis type in 4 cases (8.7%) , and mixed type in 5 cases (13.0%) . There was no substantial discrepancy in CT types among confirmed patients, BALF-mNGS diagnosed patients and PB-mNGS diagnosed patients (χ(2)=11.039, P=0.087) . The CT manifestations of confirmed patients and PB-mNGS diagnosed patients were primarily GGO type (67.6%, 73.7%) , while that of BALF-mNGS diagnosed patients were nodular type (37.5%) . Of the 46 patients, 63.0% (29/46) had lymphocytopenia in the peripheral blood, 25.6% (10/39) with positive serum G test, and 77.1% (27/35) with elevated serum lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) . There were no great discrepancies in the rates of lymphopenia in peripheral blood, positive G-test, and increased LDH among different CT types (all P>0.05) . Conclusion: The initial chest CT findings of PJP in patients with hematological diseases were relatively prevalent with multiple GGO in both lungs. Nodular and fibrosis types were also the initial imaging findings for PJP.

Clinical observation of polymyxin B in the treatment of CRKP-BSI in patients with hematological malignancies / 中国药房

OBJECTIVE To analyze the efficacy and safety of polymyxin B in the treatment of carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae （CRKP）-bloodstream infection （BSI） in patients with hematologic malignancies. METHODS The medical records of patients with hematologic malignancies with CRKP-BSI who received polymyxin B for at least 3 days in our hospital from September 2019 to June 2021 were retrospectively analyzed. All patients were initially treated with a triple therapy namely polymyxin B+tigecycline+carbapenems for anti-infection therapy. RESULTS A total of 10 patients were enrolled as the study subjects. Eleven strains of CRKP were cultured in blood， including 10 strains of CRKP produced Klebsiella pneumoniae carbapenemase（KPC） and 1 strain of CRKP produced both KPC and metal-beta-lactamase； 9 strains were sensitive to colistin， 7 strains were sensitive to tigecycline， 5 strains were sensitive to amikacin and 2 strains were sensitive to compound sulfamethoxazole. All patients were accompanied by neutropenia， with an average duration of （14.1±6.4） days. They were all characterized by fever， chills and fatigue. After treatment， 6 patients were cured and discharged， 4 patients died of ineffective treatment of septic shock. No serious adverse events related to polymyxin B occurred in all patients. CONCLUSIONS Polymyxin B can be used as a therapeutic drug for CRKP-BSI in patients with hematological malignancies. No serious adverse event related to polymyxin B occurs during the treatment.

The Risk and Survival Analysis of Multiple Malignancies in Hematologic Malignancy Patients: A Single Chinese Center Retrospective Study, 2009 through 2017 / 中国实验血液学杂志

OBJECTIVE@#To explore the risk and location of multiple malignancies in patients with hematologic malignancies who were followed up for 9 years in Jiangsu Province Hospital and to evaluate the impact of the second primary malignancy on survival of patients.@*METHODS@#The incidence and survival of multiple malignancies in 7 921 patients with hematologic malignancies from 2009 to 2017 were analyzed retrospectively.@*RESULTS@#A total of 180 (2.3%, 180/7 921) patients developed second malignancy, of whom 58 patients were diagnosed with hematologic malignancies as the first primary malignancy, and 98 patients developed hematologic malignancies as second primary malignancy, and the other 24 cases were diagnosed with the second malignancy within 6 months after the first primary malignancy was diagnosed, which was difined as multiple malignancies occurring simultaneously. In 180 patients, 18 cases developed two hematologic malignancies successively, and 11 patients developed more than 3 primary cancers (among them, 2 female patients were diagnosed with 4 primary cancers). Patients with lymphoma and multiple myeloma (MM) as the second primary malignancy had poorer survival than patients with lymphoma and MM as the first primary malignancy. Patients with chronic myeloid leukemia as the second primary malignancy were also associated with inferior overall survival.@*CONCLUSION@#In this study, 2.3% of hematologic malignancy patients had multiple mali-gnancies, lymphoma and MM as the second primary malignancy had poor survival.

Diagnostic value of transbronchial lung biopsy and bronchoalveolar lavage in pulmonary complications in patients with hematological tumors / 国际肿瘤学杂志

Objective:To evaluate the diagnostic value and safety of transbronchial lung biopsy and bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) in pulmonary complications in patients with hematological tumors.Methods:A retrospective analysis was performed on 68 patients with hematological tumors combined with lung lesions from The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital and The Third People's Hospital of Shenzhen from May 2016 to May 2022, including 37 males, 31 females, with a median age of 56 years (age range 21-90 years), among which 20 patients were >65 years old. Diagnostic fiberoptic bronchoscopy was performed with signs including fever, cough, hypoxemia, hemoptysis, unexplained dyspnea, and imaging changes. Patients with pulmonary masses were evaluated for transbronchial lung biopsy, including inner and outer leaf mass and high-density shadow of lung leaves, pathological and special staining of biopsy tissue (Grocott staining), BAL acquisition of bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) for microbiological smear/culture, cytomegalovirus, Pneumocystis jirovecii and Mycobacterium tuberculosis (TB) smear, TB DNA, TB and fungal culture. Etiological analysis of pulmonary complications and observation of the complications associated with fiberoptic bronchoscopy in patients with hematological tumors were conducted. Results:BALF test was performed in all patients after bronchoscopy, bronchoscopic lung tissue biopsy was performed in 46 cases. The total number of confirmed pathogenic infections was 40, including 12 cases of fungal infections, 9 cases of bacterial infections (2 cases each of E. faecalis and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, 1 case of Staphylococcus aureus, 1 case of Klebsiella pneumoniae, 1 case of E. coli, 1 case of coagulase-negative Staphylococcus, and 1 case of Streptococcus mitis), 9 cases of viral infection (5 cases of cytomegalovirus, 3 cases of parainfluenza virus type Ⅲ, and 1 case of respiratory syncytial virus), 4 confirmed cases of Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia, 3 cases of suspected mixed infection of Pneumocystis jirovecii and fungi, 1 case of Cryptococcus, 2 cases of suspected TB infection. No pathogenic organisms were found in 28 cases, including 6 cases of mechanized pneumonia, 6 cases associated with a history of hematological tumors, and 16 cases of other unidentified pathogens. All patients did not experience death or other serious complications caused by bronchoscopy complications. Conclusion:Pulmonary complications are common in patients with hematological tumors, and the application of transbronchial lung biopsy has good safety. Early examination of fiberoptic bronchoscopy can provide pathogenic diagnostic evidence of bacterial, fungal, Pneumocystis jirovecii and viral infections, thus improving the diagnostic rate.

Progress of companion diagnostics in chimeric antigen receptor T-cell therapy / 白血病·淋巴瘤

Chimeric antigen receptor T-cell (CAR-T) immunotherapy has achieved good efficacy in treatment of hematological malignancies. As a precise and individualized treatment method, CAR-T is gradually moving towards commercialization. In addition to the introduction of corresponding policies and guiding principles, the related detection protocols should also be updated and improved to maximize its effect and achieve precise individualization. This article introduces and expands the concept of "companion diagnostics" that first appeared in targeted drugs, and introduces the significances of various detection technologies and biomarkers for patient screening, safety monitoring and evaluation of efficacy and CAR-T function in the whole process of CAR-T treatment.