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The phase 3 MOMENTUM study (NCT04173494) of the ACVR1/JAK1/JAK2 inhibitor momelotinib (MMB) vs. danazol (DAN) in patients with myelofibrosis (MF) previously treated with a JAK inhibitor (JAKi) met the primary endpoint and all key secondary endpoints at week 24 (W24). We provide updated results from week 48 assessments. Eligible patients had primary or post-ET/ PV MF;DIPSS high, Int-2, or Int-1 risk;Total Symptom Score (TSS) >=10;haemoglobin (Hb) <10 g/dL;platelets >=25 x 109/L;prior JAKi for >=90 days (>=28 days if red blood cell [RBC] transfusions >=4 units in 8 weeks or grade 3/4 thrombocytopenia/anaemia/ hematoma);and palpable spleen >=5 cm. Randomisation was 2:1 to MMB 200 mg/day or DAN 600 mg/day for 24 weeks, followed by open-label (OL) MMB. Week 48 endpoints included durations of response (TSS, transfusion independence [TI], splenic) and overall and leukaemia-free survival (OS, LFS). As of 17 May 2022, 93/130 (72%) MMB -> MMB and 41/65 (63%) DAN -> MMB patients received OL MMB;mean MMB durations were 48 weeks and 24 weeks, respectively. Analyses for W24 responders showed the following: of TSS responders, 31/32 (97%) MMB -> MMB and 6/6 DAN -> MMB patients had TSS < baseline;of TI responders, 36/40 (90%) and 10/13 (77%) had no RBC transfusions or Hb <8 g/dL;and of spleen responders, all patients had splenic volume < baseline. In the OL phase, the most common grade >=3 treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs) were thrombocytopenia (MMB -> MMB, 9%;DAN -> MMB, 15%) and anaemia (MMB -> MMB, 9%;DAN -> MMB, 2%). Grade >=3 infections occurred in 19% of MMB -> MMB and 10% of DAN -> MMB patients, including grade >=3 (nonfatal) COVID-19. Peripheral neuropathy (PN) occurred in 2% of patients in each arm, and none discontinued MMB due to PN. TEAEs led to MMB discontinuation in 18% (MMB -> MMB) vs. 10% (DAN -> MMB). A trend towards improved OS up to W24 was previously observed with MMB vs. DAN (hazard ratio [HR], 0.506;p = 0.0719);after all patients crossed over to OL MMB, OS and LFS curves for both arms converged (HR, 0.945, 95% CI, 0.528-1.693;HR, 0.830, 95% CI, 0.473-1.4555). Sixty of 81 (74%) MMB -> MMB and 29 of 43 (67%) DAN -> MMB patients with baseline platelets <=150 x 109/L entered the OL phase. Efficacy and safety results in thrombocytopenic subgroups in the OL period were consistent with the intent-to- treat (ITT) population. OL MMB maintained symptom, TI, and spleen responses with continued good survival and safety in the ITT and low platelet populations. MMB may address an unmet need in anaemic patients with MF.
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Introduction: Due to the COVID-19 outbreak, many chronic patients and elective surgical procedures have been postponed to create spaces for the hospitalization of COVID-19 patients, raising issues related to this change. The objective of this study is to assess the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on the demand for blood products transfusion. Materials ant methods: The study presents the results of a retrospective study of blood transfusions in COVID-19 patients admitted to the Constanta County Emergency Clinical Hospital. The period of study was January-December 2021. We compared the transfusion requirement for each type of blood component in COVID 19 patients versus patients with non-COVID pathology. Results and discussions: During 2021, we transfused 282 COVID-19 patients;150 patients had only Covid pneumonia (of which 19 patients with severe forms needed intensive care in ICU-Covid), and 132 patients had various co-morbidities. The maximum blood requests was registered in the period February - April 2021, with a peak of 63 patients in April 2021. The main co-morbidities in patients with Covid 19 were: severe anemia in patients with malignant hemopathies. Anemia at admission in patients with Covid pneumonia is reported in more than 40% of patients. Moderate anemia (Hb <11 g/dL) is considered as an independent risk factor for the severe course of COVID-19 infection and mortality in these patients. The transfusion requirement in these patients was greater than 1.43 RBC (units/patient), 0.81 Plasma units/patient, 0.40 Platelets concentrate units + single donor platelet concentrate units/patient, in accordance with the associated pathology. Conclusion(s): The most requested product was packed red blood cells, the correction of anaemia being an important factor in preventing the severe course of the disease. The platelet requirement was 0.15 units/patient, thrombocytopenia being present in patients with severe evolution of the infection (hospitalized in ICU-COVID). The most requested blood groups were O+ and A+. COVID-19 transfusion data will help plan and prepare for the use of blood resources during the pandemic.Copyright © 2022 Sevigean Ali et al., published by Sciendo.
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Introduction: Anemia of inflammation is considered to be a main cause of anemia on the ICU. Inflammatory cytokines, most importantly IL-6, play a role in this pathogenesis. Given that both anemia and red blood cell (RBC) transfusions are associated with adverse outcomes, and iron is ineffective, novel treatments of anemia are wanted. The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of immunosuppressive agents on anemia development and RBC transfusions in critically ill COVID patients. Method(s): This retrospective cohort study included all ICU patients of two hospitals in the Netherlands between February 2020 and April 2022 with a PCR-positive COVID-19 ARDS. Actively bleeding patients were excluded. Evolving insights in the treatment protocol resulted in three treatment groups: no treatment, steroids or combination of steroids with tocilizumab. Daily lab results and number of RBC transfusion were retrieved and the decline in Hb level between ICU admission day 1 and 7 was calculated. A multiple linear regression analysis was used to compare outcomes. Result(s): In total, 719 patients were included, of which 168 in the no-treatment group, 337 in the steroid group and 212 in the steroids and tocilizumab group. Hb levels declined in all groups. The median decline in Hb level in the combination group was lowest, with -0.3 mmol/l [-0.9 to 0.2], -0.8 mmol/l [-1.3 to -0.1] in the group receiving steroids in the steroid group and [-1.6 to -0.5] in the no treatment group. The number of RBC transfusions was 1 [1-3] in the group receiving combination therapy, 3[1-6] in the group receiving steroids and 3[2-8] in the group receiving no treatment (p < 0.002). In a multivariate analysis, the receipt of combination therapy remained associated with inhibition of decline in Hb as well as with lowering the number of RBC transfusions. Conclusion(s): Treatment with either steroids or a combination of steroids and tocilizumab was associated with a slower decline in Hb levels during ICU stay and less RBC transfusions when compared to no treatment.
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Introduction: Wolman disease is a rare genetic disorder with an autosomal recessive inheritance. A mutation in the LIPA gene causes lysosomal acid lipase (LAL) deficiency results in lipid storage and adrenal insufficiency. Death in early infancy is due to liver failure. Patients and methods: We describe the clinical course of a three-month-old infant diagnosed with Wolman disease. A rapid mutational analysis confirmed a LIPA gene defect. Results: He underwent matched unrelated donor peripheral blood stem cell hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) at 3 months of age, with a treosulfan-based conditioning, which resulted in engraftment with donor-derived hematopoietic cells. He required supportive care for sinusoidal obstruction syndrome and mucositis. He was administered low dose prednisolone for grade I skin graft versus host disease, and a complete donor chimerism was documented on several occasions. At one year post HSCT, his growth and development were optimal, and there was no hepatosplenomegaly. He is maintained on glucocorticoid and mineralocorticoid supplements for primary hypoaldosteronism. Conclusion: The case emphasizes the timely diagnosis and the potential for successful treatment of Wolman disease by HSCT. © 2022 Pediatric Hematology Oncology Chapter of Indian Academy of Pediatrics
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Background: Acquired hemophilia A (AHA) is a rare autoimmune bleeding disorder that occurs in a sporadic, nonhereditary pattern. It is caused by circulating autoantibodies against clotting factor VIII that are triggered by several conditions. Moreover, AHA is clinically distinct from the inherited form of hemophilia A, with a different natural history and management approach, necessitating a high-index of suspicion in at-risk patients. Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has emerged as a multisystemic disease whose manifestations are continuously being evaluated. There are few case reports of AHA associated with COVID-19 infection, while one case of AHA has been associated with COVID-19 vaccination. Similarly, deep venous thrombosis (DVT) frequently complicates COVID-19 infection, but two cases of DVT have been reported following COVID-19 vaccination. We report the occurrence of both AHA and DVT in a 63-year-old male patient within one week of receiving his first dose of the Pfizer-BioNTech SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccine. Case Description: Patient is a 63-year-old male who presented with a 3-day history of left lower extremity (LLE) swelling and pain. He was hemodynamically stable, but examination showed exquisite tenderness, ecchymosis, and pitting edema at the calf of the LLE. He had normal platelet counts at presentation but had mild anemia (11.9 g/dL) and elevated activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT) of 68.0 seconds. Venous Doppler ultrasound showed acute DVT in the left popliteal vein, necessitating commencement on heparin drip. He developed progressively worsening hematomas, symptomatic anemia that required red cell transfusions, and persistently elevated APTT despite stopping the heparin drip. Work up for pulmonary embolism, malignancy, and disseminated intravascular coagulopathy (DIC) were negative. Antiphospholipid antibodies and lupus anticoagulant were also negative. He had low factor VIII levels, tested positive for factor VIII inhibitor, and PTT mixing studies were consistent with acquired factor inhibitor. Treatment involved administration of Factor Eight Inhibitor Bypassing Activity (FEIBA) as well as intravenous methylprednisolone and cyclophosphamide. Following resolution of active bleeding with evidence of stable hemoglobin concentration, he was discharged home on oral prednisone and cyclophosphamide. Conclusion(s): This case report highlights the possibility of AHA and DVT as rare, potentially life-threatening adverse events that could occur following COVID-19 vaccination, which is currently the most effective tool employed in controlling the COVID-19 pandemic.Copyright © Annals of Blood. All rights reserved.
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Background: Spondyloptosis is caused by high force trauma. The vast majority of cases occur in the sagittal plane and at transition points where ridged sections meet more flexible regions. Lateral thoracic spondyloptosis is extremely rare and there is no current consensus on the optimal treatment plan. Case Description: Here we present a case of a previously physically healthy 24-year-old polytrauma patient after he was struck as a pedestrian by a motor vehicle. Of note the patient was found to have lateral spondyloptosis between T9-10 with complete spinal cord transection. The patient also sustained multi-ligamentous left knee injury, pelvic fractures, open comminuted left tibia and fibular fracture, lacerated liver, bilateral renal lacerations, ischemic bowel, and an aortic arch pseudoaneurysm. Conclusion(s): Lateral thoracic spondyloptosis is a devastating injury with an extreme rate of persistent neurologic deficits. There is no unanimously accepted treatment because of the rarity if the injury and the poor outcomes that patients face. Additionally, patients who experience high level trauma often develop severe psychiatric illness, and the importance of identifying risk factors and implementing care early may improve patient outcomes.Copyright © AME Medical Journal.
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As of 15 December 2021, coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) affected approximately 271 million and killed 5.3 million people globally. COVID-19 pandemic had a tremendous impact on world healthcare systems and blood supply. While principles of patient blood management (PBM) may have been previously implemented in many jurisdictions, their widespread adoption has become imperative during the pandemic. This review will discuss the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the Canadian blood supply and how the principles of PBM could be applied during a pandemic or other disruptions to healthcare delivery or blood supply. We described the local blood system and how it adapted during the pandemic. We also included a discussion of pandemic-associated local PBM challenges and solutions. We conducted a brief review of English language literature with a specific focus on the application of PBM to reduce unnecessary red blood cell (RBC) transfusions in elective major surgery, hematological malignancies, elective major gynecological surgery and obstetrics between January 2020 and April 2022. The common themes included anemia diagnosis and management, restrictive RBC transfusion strategies and reduction in blood loss. Anemia is common, is frequently caused by iron deficiency and can be treated with oral or intravenous iron. Erythropoiesis stimulating agents are effective in raising hemoglobin and may be indicated in certain perioperative settings. Evidence supports the use of restrictive RBC transfusion thresholds and single unit transfusions in most patient populations. Hemostatic therapy, such as tranexamic acid, is generally safe and effective in reducing bleeding. Diagnostic phlebotomy contributes to anemia and should be restricted to tests that are necessary and likely to change management. In conclusion, PBM interventions are generally effective and safe. Prioritization of PBM during the pandemic or a blood shortage may help sustain the blood supply and lead to improved patient outcomes.Copyright © Annals of Blood. All rights reserved.
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With increasing evidence of the success of hematopoietic progenitor cell (HPC) transplantation in the cure of many benign and malignant diseases, such interventions have been performed at increasing rates for the past several years. Due to myelosuppression caused by the conditioning and graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) prophylaxis regimens, blood component transfusions are almost inevitably needed. During transplantation, patient's hematopoietic lineages reconstitute to the HPC donor's progenitor cell types. Therefore, specific immunoserologic and hemotherapeutic aspects need to be considered for the selection of blood components during different phases of transplantation for successful outcomes. Those considerations include but are not limited to ABO and human leucocyte antigen (HLA) compatibility of the transfused blood components with either or both the patient and the HPC donor according to the particular phase of transplantation, and the special blood component processing to reduce the risk of transfusion associated graft-versus-host disease (TA-GVHD), cytomegalovirus (CMV) transmission in CMV seronegative patients and immune mediated platelets refractoriness. Complications may still arise, particularly in major, minor, or bidirectional ABO mismatched transplantations and/or due to the HLA mismatch and alloimmunization. Here we discuss the indications, immunoserologic considerations and the special component processing of red blood cells (RBCs), platelets, granulocytes, and plasma transfusions, based upon the current evidence and describe the prevention and management of salient, pertinent complications.Copyright © 2022 The authors.
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Pulmonary artery pseudoaneurysms (PAPs) are uncommon entities consisting of contained rupture of the pulmonary artery and are a potentially fatal cause of hemoptysis. We describe two index cases of left lower lobe PAPs and arterial ectasia post-COVID-19 pneumonitis and their endovascular treatment with Amplatzer vascular plug, coils, and glue.Copyright © 2022. Indian Society of Vascular and Interventional Radiology. All rights reserved.
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Periorbital swelling is a clinical presentation with a broad differential and potentially deleterious consequence. Causes range from benign, including allergic reaction, to vision-and life-threatening, including orbital cellulitis and orbital infarction. The recent climate of SARS-CoV-2 has further complicated this differential, as the virus poses broad clinical presentations with new manifestations reported frequently. Rapid identification of the underlying etiology is crucial, as treatment approaches diverge greatly. Here, we report the case of an African American adolescent male with a history of homozygous sickle cell anemia presenting to an inner city hospital with bilateral periorbital swelling amid the coronavirus pandemic. Differentials including orbital cellulitis, COVID-MIS-C, orbital inflammatory syndrome, Hoagland sign, and orbital infarction secondary to sickle cell crisis are contrasted. We contrast our case with 12 case reports of orbital infarction in the setting of sickle cell crisis within the past 10 years, highlighting how these presentations, along with commonly reported findings of orbital infarction, compare with our patient. Copyright © 2022 Tehran University of Medical Sciences.
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Introduction/Objective: The brown recluse spider, Loxosceles reclusa, is commonly found in the southern and central United States and is known for its venomous bite. It has six eyes, uniformly colored abdomen and legs, is around 1 cm in length and prefers to live in warm, dark and dry places. Its bite in humans can cause skin necrosis as well as more severe manifestations including acute hemolytic anemia, disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), rhabdomyolysis and renal failure. Methods/Case Report: We present a case report of a 27 year old male with no known past medical history who was referred from another medical center with a critical hemoglobin of 3.6 g/dl and acute hemolytic anemia that was not responsive to packed red blood cell transfusion and intravenous immunoglobulin treatment. He reported of having bitten by a brown recluse spider 8 days ago on the right scapular region. He started developing wound and pain in the area 2 days later when he was admitted to the hospital for a day and treated with antibiotics. His white blood cell count (WBC) at the time was mildly elevated with near normal hemoglobin and was incidentally found to have COVID 19 positivity. After being discharged, he developed fever with chills, dark urine, body ache, headache, nausea and vomiting. When presented to our hospital, laboratory review exhibited normocytic normochromic anemia with elevated bilirubin and decreased haptoglobin showing a hemolytic picture. The patient also displayed severe leukocytosis (WBC count: 53.50) with absolute neutrophilia, lymphocytosis, and monocytosis. Monocyte distribution width (MDW) was 30.02. These changes were attributed to be reactive to venom effect and sepsis. The patient showed significant improvement with plasmapheresis. Results (if a Case Study enter NA): NA. Conclusion(s): The diagnosis of systemic loxoscelism is often difficult and delayed. Brown recluse spider bites may not always present with sharp stings to be noticed and reported by the patient. Presence of another infectious condition, like COVID 19 in this case, may divert the diagnosis. An elaborate patient history, physical examination for bite wound and patient education may help in identifying the cause early. Spider bites should be considered as a differential diagnosis in a patient with dermonecrosis and abrupt onset hemolysis or sepsis. Prompt treatment can prevent development of DIC, renal failure and life threatening conditions.
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Introduction/Objective: At the beginning of the SARSCo- V2 pandemic, many hospitals implemented mitigating strategies to preserve their blood supply in anticipation of a blood shortage. Our health system, Inova (IHS), which includes 5 hospitals supported by our hospital based blood services, was no different. During the pandemic we experienced a decline in donations and available blood products. In anticipation of this shortage, our institution mobilized the Patient Blood Management (PBM) initiative. A multidisciplinary review of transfusion criteria was performed across the system. This included enforcing single unit red blood cell (RBC) transfusions, partial RBC exchanges for sickle-cell disease, and reduction in plasma replacement volume during plasma exchanges for patients with thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP). By implementing these strategies, patient outcomes were not impacted despite the constraints to our blood supply. Methods/Case Report: IHS Executive leaders were identified to participate along with key stakeholders in the PBM committee meetings to ensure proper blood utilization for our patients. Clinical guidelines were updated within the physician order sets. Data was compiled with a focus on hemoglobin metrics along with the percentage of single unit transfusions. Collaborating with IHS Apheresis Services and our providers, we developed a strategy to reduce the number of blood products transfused. Results (if a Case Study enter NA): Although there was decline in donor blood collections during the pandemic due to significant concerns of SARS-CO-V2 exposure, the implementation of Patient Blood Management strategies at our institution proved to be beneficial for product management and resource allocation. Although there was a decline in the number of donations (6.5%) we were able to transfuse more patients. Conclusion(s): The SARS-Co-V2 pandemic significantly reduced the blood inventory nationwide. By implementing a robust Patient Blood Management program, we were able to successfully utilize our blood inventory while maintaining transfusion practices that aligned with standards of care. The collaborative efforts between our hospital based blood center and the blood bank led to the optimal use of a reduced blood supply during the pandemic. Incorporating Patient Blood Management principles and safe implementation of novel treatment plans for certain apheresis patient population during the pandemic enabled our system to have more available blood products and care for more patients with improved patient outcomes.
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The proceedings contain 46 papers. The topics discussed include: anemia assessment with benchmarking of red blood cell transfusion risk in cardiac surgery;clinical outcomes and therapeutic strategies for gastrointestinal bleeding in patients who decline transfusion;effect of patient blood management program on outcomes of the elderly with femur fracture who underwent orthopedic surgery;effect of ultrafiltration during cardiopulmonary bypass on viscoelastic profiles in cardiac surgery: retrospective analysis;hemoglobin based oxygen carrier treatment and clinical outcomes in severe anemia when blood is not an option;hemoglobin, lactate dehydrogenase, and FACIT-fatigue normalization in pegcetacoplan-treated patients with paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria;implementing three key blood management measures during COVID-19 related inventory shortages;and managing preoperative anemia using a novel algorithm to determine the preoperative target hemoglobin.
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Background: An erythroid maturation agent, Luspatercept is approved to treat adults with β -thalassemia. Its availability in Greece coincided with severe blood shortages due to the COVID outbreak, making its administration even more necessary. Aims: Luspatarept's usage in patients with comorbidities. Methods: Between May and December 2021, luspatercept was administered for a period of 12 to 24 weeks to twelve individuals with confirmed β -thalassemia (β 0/β +: 4/12, β +/β +:3/12, β 0/β ++:1/12, β 0/β 0 :1/12,β +/β ++:1/12) and significant comorbidities such as chronic heart failure (3/12), osteoporosis (3/12), atrial fibrillation (2/12), extramedullary hematopoiesis (2/12) and cirrhosis (1/12). The average age was 48.3 years;7male /5 female. Prior to initiating luspatercept, the patient's medical history was reviewed for risk factors for thrombophilia (9/12 had low protein S and C and 2/12 had also low ATIII) as well as anticoagulant (4/12 on acenocoumarol) and antiplatelet (3/12 on aspirin ) medication related to splenectomy (10/12) or past thrombotic episodes (4/12).Transfusion requirements, transfusion intervals, mean hemoglobin and LDH values were documented for 12 weeks prior to and during luspatercept initiation. To maintain stable blood volumes in each transfusion, prestorage leukoreduced RBCs with an average volume per unit of 320 ml was used. Results: Table 1 summarizes the study's main results.Statistical significance is p <0.05. Throughout treatment, all but one patient (11/12) received a dose of 1 mg/kg. One patient did not respond to a dose increase of 1.25 g / kg and discontinued on week 12. Additionally, two other luspatercept responders discontinued treatment after the 12th and 24th week, respectively, due to significant fatigue. After 12 and 24 weeks, all patients who continued in luspatercept had a significant decrease in transfusion blood needs, approximately -29.4% and -36.1 % compared to baseline. They also showed significant increase in transfusion intervals for an average of 20.7 days. In addition, it became apparent that, although the volume of blood supplied was reduced and the interval between transfusions increased, the patients' hemoglobin levels remained adequately high in luspatercept treated patients. LDH as hemolysis biomarker, did not reveal any significant changes. During the follow-up period, no patient reported progression of existing comorbidities or the development of new ones. As far as their cardiovascular disease is concerned, the patients clinical status was stable NYHA II despite the reduction of transfusions. Six months after taking luspatercept, one patient showed an improvement in extramedullary hematopoiesis as evaluated by magnetic resonance imaging. Additionally, despite the presence of predisposing factors and the significant increase of platelets, no new thrombosis developed. Summary/Conclusion: In patients with significant comorbidities, luspatercept significantly decreased transfusion burden and prolonged transfusion intervals , without any observed worsening of their comorbidities or development of new ones. (Table Presented).
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Background: On 2019, the FDA and later the EMA granted approval to polatuzumab vedotin-piiq, a CD79b-directed antibodydrug conjugate indicated in combination with bendamustine and rituximab (P-BR) for adult patients with relapsed or refractory diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL), not otherwise specified (NOS), after at least two prior therapies. P-BR has demonstrated (NCT02257567) better overall response rates (complete and partial responses) compared with BR alone (63% vs 25%) and response durations of at least 12 months in 48% of the patients. The most common adverse reactions with P-BR (incidence at least 20%) included cytopenias (most common reason for treatment discontinuation), peripheral neuropathy, fatigue, diarrhea, pyrexia, decreased appetite and pneumonia. Serious adverse reactions occurred in 64%, most often from infection. Aims: To analyze results in terms of efficacy and safety of the P-BR regimen in real life conditions. Methods: Observational, retrospective study in 3 academic centers. Adult patients (≥ 18 years old) diagnosed with DLBCL NOS R/R who received P-BR between July 2019 and December 2021 were included in the analysis. Results: 11 patients were treated with P-BR. The mean (SD) age was 70.1 (8.2) years (Range 57-81 years). Cell of origin was informed in 9/11 cases, 6 of them were activated B-cell (ABC) subtype. No double-/triple-hit lymphomas were confirmed. The median number of prior lines of therapy before P-BR was 2, with most patients (63%) refractory to the last treatment. All patients had received anti-CD20 (Rituximab) on prior treatments and only 2 (18%) Bendamustine. Baseline characteristics are shown in table 1. Efficacy Seven patients were evaluated by PET-CT after 3 cycles, 4 (57%) achieved CR and 3 PR (43%). Five patients achieved CR by PET-CT at the end of treatment. One of these patients is still in CR after 12 months of follow up and three of them after 24 months from the start of P-BR. One patient relapsed after 19 months. Of the patients achieving CR, all of them had responses >12 months. Only 3/5 completed the 6 cycles scheme, 1 patient received 5 cycles (treatment was interrupted due to an invasive fungal infection) and 1 patient received only 2 cycles as bridge therapy for and autoHCT and achieved CR after transplantation. 1 patient was refractory to treatment and progressed after 2 cycles. Toxicity: All patients were evaluated for toxicity. 63% (7/11) of them presented hematological toxicity, mainly neutropenia which required GCSF administration and 71% RBC transfusion. Two patients required hospital admission because of neutropenic fever. There were 3 documented cases of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Two patients had moderate disease with bilateral pneumonia (vaccinated) after the 2° cycle of treatment which is temporarily interrupted. One patient completed 6 cycles but died of severe SARS-CoV2 infection (unvaccinated) before being assessed for response at end of treatment. Two patients interrupted treatment definitely because of toxicity: severe cytopenia and invasive fungal infection. No other extra hematological toxicities were reported. Image: Summary/Conclusion: The P-BR regimen provides sustained good results for patients with R/R DLBCL who have failed treatment with prior therapies. Cytopenias were the most frequent form of toxicity and were easily addressed in most cases. In our experience, SARS-CoV2 infection has been a challenge due to delay in treatment and high morbidity and mortality.
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Background: Blood transfusions are common medical practice in the UK, with approximately 2.1 million blood products being issued by UK blood serices in 2020. The Serious Hazard of Transfusion (SHOT) scheme reported that the risk of death and serious harm related to transfusions was 1 in 53,193 and 1 in 15,142 in 2020, respectiely. Multiple complications can occur as a result of blood transfusions, with the most common cause of death being Transfusion Associated Circulatory Oerload (TACO). Although low risk, there has been an increase in deaths related to blood transfusions from 17 deaths in 2019, to 39 deaths in 2020, in the UK, with 81.6% of aderse reactions and eents being due to preentable errors. This stresses the importance of safe transfusion practice. Aims: To reiew the rates of blood transfusions from 2013 to 2021, and compare our adherence to NICE guidance. We analysed rates of transfusion, number of red blood cells (RBC) units per transfusion, haemoglobin leels and the incidence of iron deficiency anaemia (IDA) prior to transfusion. Methods: Data was collected retrospectiely from patients' records and the transfusion laboratory database at Surrey and Sussex healthcare Trust. Adults (>16 years old) who receied inpatient or outpatient RBC transfusions from 2013 to 2021 were included (n = 53,941). We looked in further detail at the RBC transfusions from the first 2 weeks of December from 2014 to 2021 (n=546). Results: Figure 1 shows that there has been a significant decline in the number of RBC transfused from 2014 to 2021;an aerage gradient of -36.25 units per year (R2= 0.72). There has also been a decline in the aerage number of units per blood transfusion, with a downward trendline (gradient -0.15 RBC units/year, p= 0.001). There has been a significant increase in the percentage of single unit transfusions from 14% in 2014 to 65% in 2021;the trendline has a gradient of +7% / year (p=0.0009). The aerage haemoglobin at initiation of transfusion has remained relatiely unchanged (69-78g/L), which is in line with NICE guidance. There is no improement in transfusion of patients with IDA;defined as a low transferrin saturation (<20%). The percentage of these patients being transfused arying from 43% to 79%, with no significant trend oer the years from 2014 to 2021 (p=0.71). Summary/Conclusion: The total number of RBC transfused has significantly decreased oer 9 years. Howeer, there is a slight rise from August 2020, which may hae been a result of expansion of the Hospital bed base from 697 to 800 between years 2018-2021. It also may hae been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. There is a decrease in the amount of RBC units transfused per patient. We are also encouraged to see a significant increase in the number of single unit transfusions, in line with NICE Guidance. We found there was no improement in the number of patients with IDA being transfused (aerage 64%). This indicates that, depending on the clinical scenario, some patients may be receiing unnecessary blood transfusions. They may benefit from receiing iron replacement as an alternatie treatment, thereby minimising exposing patients unnecessarily to the risks associated with blood transfusion. Appropriate management of IDA needs further work in the trust, and we hae initiated an IV iron serice oer the last 18 months to improe this. Limitations of this study include using two weeks of the year to extrapolate for each year and data may hae been skewed oer the last two years due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Background and aims: Cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST) is a rare cause of stroke, contributing to less than 1%. We report an unusual case of severe iron deficiency anaemia (IDA) causing CVST in a young woman with menorrhagia. Methods: Case report: A 40-year-old female with underlying anaemia presented with headache, right leg numbness and expressive dysphasia. She experienced massive menstrual bleeding prior to the symptoms onset on background of uterine fibroids. There was no history of contraceptive pills consumption, massive blood transfusion, COVID-19 infection or vaccination. Systemic review was unremarkable. Results: Blood investigations revealed haemoglobin of 4.5g/dl, MCV 52.3fL, platelet 657x1////////09/L and low ferritin level. Coagulation profile, connective tissue disease, thrombophilia screening, serum homocysteine and HIV test were normal. Computed tomography (CT) of the head showed left temporoparietal lobe infarct and left dural venous sinus thrombosis. CT venography revealed CVST within the distal left transverse sinus and the vein of Labbe. Pelvic ultrasound showed multiple uterine fibroids. She was warfarinised and had iron and red cell transfusion. She agreed to take progesterone-only pill and interval hysterectomy after gynaecological review. Discussion: CVST in association with IDA is rare in adults and is more prevalent in men. In IDA, hypercoagulability and venous stasis play a vital role in thrombus formation. One study found that IDA in women caused arachidonic acid-induced platelet dysfunction causing menorrhagia which is reversible with iron repletion. Conclusion: IDA is a rare cause of CVST but should be considered in the context of relevant history and blood tests.
ABSTRACT
Background: The novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has caused a sudden and unexpected rise in hospitalizations and deaths around the world. Many hospitals have changed their daily work and become infectious. A reduction in blood collection of 10 to 50% has been reported. In Russia, in 2020, compared to 2019, blood collection decreased by 4%. Data on the use of blood products by patients with COVID-19 is very limited and highly variable. According to various sources, from 3.3 to 13.4% of patients with COVID-19 need a blood transfusion. In different hospitals transferred to the COVID-19 mode, blood transfusion changes in different ways: somewhere it increases, and somewhere it decreases. Aims: To identify the features of transfusion therapy in the COVID- 19 hospital of the Pirogov Center. Methods: We studied the structure of recipients and blood transfusions in the COVID-19 hospital and other departments of the Pirogov Center in 2020. We transfused leucodepleted red blood cells in PAGGS-M, leucodepleted amotosalen/UVA pathogen inactivated platelets in SSP+ and methylene blue/white light pathogen inactivated male plasma. No COVID-19 convalescent plasma has been transfused. Results: Among the 1141 patients of the COVID-19 hospital, 61 patients (5.3%) and among 37,136 patients in other departments, 710 (1.9%) patients received transfusions of blood components. During the operation of the COVID-19 hospital, the Pirogov Center's need for donor blood components was fully met. In the COVID-19 hospital compared to other departments: • the part of recipients of all blood components, red blood cells and plasma was higher (p < 0.01);• 4 units and 4-6 units of red blood cells were transfused more often (p < 0.01), more than 11 units of red blood cells were not transfused;• among recipients of red blood cells, the part of people over 60 years old is 42.4% higher than the same part among other patients (p < 0.01);• among plasma recipients, the part of persons under 45 years of age is significantly reduced (p < 0.05). Red blood cells transfusion helped to save most of the most severe patients: • over 70 years old, • anaemia on admission, • the period of D-dimer concentration over 1.5 mg/l-more than 20 days, • concomitant oncological diseases-in 20% of patients. Among patients with new coronavirus infection and no indication for red blood cell transfusion, haemoglobin concentration negatively correlates with age and D-dimer level. The absence of such connections in red blood cells recipients indicates the importance of other factors (oncological process, bleeding) in the development of anaemia that requires transfusion correction. Summary/Conclusions: The data on the needs of patients in the COVID-19 hospital for transfusion therapy can be used as a benchmark for the related work planning.
ABSTRACT
Background: Upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB) is a common gastrointestinal emergency and carries a high morbidity and mortality. There are multiple risk factors for poorer outcomes, including malnutrition. Ascorbic acid is a water-soluble vitamin present in most plant foods. Dietary deficiency leads to scurvy, which may alter the natural history of UGIB through impaired tissue and mucosal integrity. Traditionally thought to be rare in developed countries, Vitamin C deficiency (VCD) is now well described in patients with pneumonia, sepsis and COVID-191, 2. There is a paucity of literature investigating the prevalence and clinical significance of VCD in UGIB;interim findings reported by our group suggested a prevalence of >30%. Aim: The aim of this study was to establish the prevalence of VCD in patients presenting with UGIB and its association with clinical outcomes. Methods: We conducted a prospective cohort study of adult patients presenting with UGIB to two metropolitan tertiary hospitals in Melbourne, Australia over a 12-month period (March 2020 to March 2021). Fasting Vitamin C levels were obtained on admission. Patients were risk stratified using the AIMS65 score and baseline demographic data and outcomes were recorded. The primary outcome was the prevalence of VCD (serum Vitamin C level <23mcmol/L) and severe VCD (<12mcmol/L). Secondary outcomes included a composite endpoint of adverse events (AE), comprising inpatient death, intensive care unit (ICU) admission, rebleeding, surgery, angioembolisation or massive transfusion (≥4 units of red cells). Multivariate logistic regression was used to determine the association between Vitamin C levels and the secondary endpoints. Subgroup analyses were performed in variceal and non-variceal UGIB and high- (AIMS65≥2) and low-risk (AIMS65 0-2) UGIB. Results: 227 patients were included. The mean age was 65±17 years, 145 (63.9%) were male and median AIMS65 score was 1 (IQR 1-2). The aetiology of UGIB was variceal bleeding in 20.3%, peptic ulcer disease (PUD) in 44.1% and other causes in 35.7%. The mean Vitamin C level was 40±26mcmol/L. In terms of patient outcomes, inpatient mortality was 4%, ICU admission occurred in 11.9% and mean length of stay (LOS) was 7.7±9.7 days. Red cell transfusion was required in 63.4% of patients with a mean requirement of 2.2±2.8 units. VCD was identified in 74 patients (32.6%) with severe deficiency in 32 (14.1%). VCD was associated with significantly higher in-hospital mortality (9.5% vs. 1.3%, p=0.01), prolonged LOS (10.8 vs. 6.2 days, p<0.01), rebleeding (17.6% vs. 7.88%, p=0.05) and a higher composite endpoint of AE (77% vs. 54.9%, p<0.01). At multivariate logistic regression, high-risk UGIB (OR 3.24, CI 1.42-7.42), VCD (OR 2.28, CI1.11-4.71) and chronic liver disease (OR 11.66, CI 2.92-46.64) were all independently associated with the composite endpoint of AE. At subgroup analysis, VCD was associated with a significantly increased composite endpoint of AE in patients with non-variceal (74% vs. 51%, p<0.01) and low-risk UGIB (66% vs. 44%, p=0.04). Conclusion: VCD is highly prevalent in patients with UGIB and associated with poorer outcomes, including higher mortality, rebleeding and LOS. Interventional studies are required to determine the impact of early Vitamin C supplementation on clinical outcomes.