Researchers found that abdominal blood clots are associated with an increased risk of developing undiagnosed cancer, particularly liver and pancreatic cancer. Patients with these clots had poorer survival outcomes compared to those without the clots.
A recent Mayo Clinic study found that combining the targeted drug ibrutinib with standard chemotherapy significantly reduces the risk of death or cancer progression in patients with relapsed CLL or SLL. The treatment results in a nearly 80% reduction in mortality, offering new hope for longer disease control and decreased risk of relapse.
A new study reveals that clinical and genetic factors affecting warfarin dose vary by race, highlighting the need for race-specific dosing equations to improve anticoagulation control. The research team found that gene variants may have different effects on dose across racial groups, particularly among African Americans.
Dr. Qizhen Shi's team aims to investigate a novel gene therapy approach that induces immune tolerance for hemophilia A, overcoming the challenge of inhibitory antibodies. The project seeks to develop a clinically translatable gene therapy protocol that provides therapeutic FVIII protein.
A new study by Mount Sinai researchers found that large urban hospitals in densely populated regions of Washington DC, New York State, California, Maryland, and New Jersey have lower patient satisfaction scores due to demographic bias. The authors propose an adjustment formula to mitigate this bias, which, when applied to New York Stat...
Researchers studied 293 patients with brain metastases and blood clots to determine if administering blood-thinning medication was safe. The study found no significant difference in bleeding risk between patients who received a widely used blood thinner and those who did not.
A new study comparing gene therapy to half-matched transplants for SCID-X1 reveals that gene therapy leads to faster immune development, fewer infections, and reduced hospitalizations. Gene therapy shows promise as a viable alternative treatment for infants with this rare immune disorder.
Research reveals pregnant women with severe sickle cell disease are six times more likely to die during or after pregnancy. Women with the most severe form of SCD face increased risks of high blood pressure, stillbirth, preterm delivery, and smaller-than-average infants.
The American Society of Hematology proposes a new role for hematologists in a rapidly changing US healthcare system. The 'systems-based' clinical hematologist model offers a sustainable approach to recruit and retain talent in the field.
A recent study by UT Southwestern Medical Center found that patients with a prior cancer diagnosis have similar clinical outcomes to those without a history of cancer. The researchers studied over 102,000 patients and found that these patients had better overall survival and lung cancer-specific survival rates.
A recent study published in Blood found that most breakthrough blood cancer therapies have favorable cost-effectiveness ratios, with some treatments providing better value than others. The median ratio for industry-funded studies was $26,000/QALY, while non-industry-funded studies had a median ratio of $33,000/QALY.
Researchers at National University of Singapore have found new interactions between STAT3 and PRL-3, two molecules involved in acute myeloid leukaemia, which may offer a new therapeutic target. The study suggests that disrupting the STAT3-PRL-3 regulatory loop could lead to an attractive anti-leukaemia therapy.
Researchers have discovered novel combinations of targeted therapies and chemotherapy regimens that improve survival outcomes for patients with historically poor-prognosis leukemia. These findings, presented at the American Society of Hematology Annual Meeting, offer new hope for elderly and aggressive genetic mutation patients.
Researchers present new advances in treating relapsed and treatment-resistant lymphoma, including targeted therapies and stem cell transplantation, to improve patient outcomes. These studies show promising results for patients with HIV-associated lymphoma, where traditional treatments have been limited.
New immunotherapy treatments aim to enable the body's natural defenses to recognize and destroy malignant cells. Studies present promising early data that encourage long-term outcomes among patients who have not responded to other therapies, including checkpoint inhibitors and drugs targeting the PD-1 pathway.
Researchers found that therapeutic plasma exchange can rapidly reduce HIT antibody levels, making patients eligible for urgent cardiac surgery sooner. The study suggests using both functional and immunoassays to determine patient readiness, with the functional assay indicating lower antibody levels more quickly.
Patients with a history of heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) may be ready for urgent heart surgery sooner than previously thought, according to new research. A combination of appropriate blood screenings and therapeutic plasma exchange can help lower HIT antibody levels quickly.
An experimental drug has demonstrated potential as a first treatment for anemia of inflammation, regulating blood's iron supply and maintaining its transport. The treatment, lexaptepid pegol, inactivates hepcidin hormone production, improving iron levels without interfering with the immune response.
Drs. DeBaun and Hebbel will present their lecture on sickle cell disease, highlighting improved understanding but continued challenges. Their research focuses on cerebrovascular injury and asthma, with implications for treatment and care.
Geraldine P. Schechter, MD, receives the 2014 Henry M. Stratton Medal for Clinical Science for her pioneering work on chronic lymphoid malignancies and autoimmune hematologic disorders. Timothy Springer, PhD, wins the award for Basic Science for his groundbreaking research on hemostasis, inflammation, and immunology.
Scott Armstrong, M.D., Ph.D., has made significant contributions to the field of hematology with his research on leukemia and cancer stem cell biology. His work has led to new therapies for patients diagnosed with devastating leukemias, according to the American Society of Hematology.
Dr. Tomas Ganz is recognized for his pioneering work on iron homeostasis and the discovery of the hormone hepcidin, which plays a crucial role in regulating iron metabolism. His research has significant implications for understanding and treating iron deficiency anemia and inflammation.
The American Society of Hematology awards Mentor Awards to Drs. Grover C. Bagby Jr., MD, and John F. DiPersio, MD, PhD, for their dedication to mentoring early-career hematologists. Both mentors have had a significant impact on the careers of numerous mentees, advancing research and patient care in hematology.
Researchers found a strong connection between post-transplant gut microbiota diversity and outcomes, with patients having low diversity more likely to die from transplant-related causes. The study suggests that preserving gut microbiota diversity may improve stem cell transplant outcomes.
Despite progress in treating head and neck cancer, MU researchers found that prognosis for African-Americans has not improved over the last 40 years. The study analyzed data from 1973 to 2010, showing a significantly decreased five-year overall survival rate of 41.8 percent for African-Americans compared to 60.8 percent for Caucasians.
A study found that approximately 25% of children with acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL) are missing too many doses of essential maintenance medication, which minimizes the risk of relapse. Nonadherence triples relapse risk, with African Americans and Asians being more prone to non-adherence than non-Hispanic whites.
A new study has discovered how ibrutinib resistance develops in CLL patients, identifying key gene mutations that weaken the drug's ability to bind with Bruton's tyrosine kinase. This understanding is crucial for developing effective alternative treatments for patients who develop resistance.
Dr. Neal Meropol, Chief of Hematology and Oncology at Case Western Reserve University, is honored as an ASCO Fellow for his exceptional volunteer service and dedication to cancer care. He has served on the ASCO Board of Directors and various committees, contributing to the organization's mission to improve cancer care.
A new assessment tool for young adults with sickle cell disease has been developed to gauge their readiness for adult care. The tool, which was found to be effective in pinpointing areas of need, includes a comprehensive guidebook addressing personal concerns and knowledge gaps.
A new study published in Blood journal found that adhering to a Mediterranean diet is associated with lower levels of platelets and white blood cells, two markers of inflammation. This eating plan is linked to reduced inflammation and heart disease risk, particularly among healthy individuals.
A comprehensive 'roadmap' of blood cells has been presented by researchers, pinpointing the location of key genetic regulators that determine cell development and function. This robust genetic catalog will enable hematologists to trace the development of blood cells and identify potential triggers for malignancies.
A recent study found that the ICD-10 transition led to significant information loss, affecting about 8 percent of Medicaid codes. Financial implications also emerged, with 39 codes accounting for 2.9 percent of total Medicaid reimbursements and 5.3 percent of UI Cancer Center billing charges.
A new pill called idelalisib shows promise in treating relapsed leukemia and lymphoma patients, with a significant response rate of 72% for CLL patients. However, MCL patients experienced less favorable responses, highlighting the need for further research to improve this therapy.
Researchers at Ohio State University confirm that ibrutinib targets Bruton's tyrosine kinase (BTK), a critical molecule in chronic lymphocytic leukemia cell growth and proliferation. Inhibiting BTK delayed CLL development and improved overall survival in mouse models.
Dr. Katherine High's groundbreaking research in gene therapy has led to novel approaches to correcting hemophilia, with ongoing studies in a current NIH-funded clinical trial. The E. Donnall Thomas Prize recognizes her remarkable contributions to the field, transforming the notion of using genetically engineered mechanisms for treatment.
Researchers identify novel genetic mutations in the CALR gene that are common in patients with myeloproliferative neoplasms, improving diagnosis and treatment decisions. The study also explores the use of lenalidomide and idelalisib to strengthen rituximab treatment for pre-treated patients.
A new technology grows cord blood stem cells in a lab before transplant, increasing survival rates by 9.6% compared to traditional methods. Patients who received the StemEx transplants engrafted faster and were less vulnerable to infections and bleeding.
Scientists at The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia reprogrammed gene expression to produce fetal hemoglobin, which is unaffected by the genetic defect in sickle cell disease. This approach may open the door to a new treatment option for patients with this debilitating blood disorder.
Researchers present new pain management treatment for SCD patients using selectin inhibitors, while also exploring targeted gene therapy strategies to produce healthy hemoglobin. These advances aim to improve the long-term outlook and quality of life for hundreds of thousands of patients worldwide.
Researchers have developed genetically engineered cell therapies demonstrating early efficacy and safety in patients with blood disorders. The treatments use a patient's own re-engineered cells to attack their disease, offering an innovative approach to precision medicine.
Researchers have made significant strides in expanding transplant eligibility and improving long-term success rates, particularly for older patients. Studies have shown that haploidentical transplants and cord blood cells can be viable alternatives to fully matched donors.
The American Society of Hematology has released a list of common hematology tests, treatments, and procedures that are not always necessary. The list highlights five tests or procedures to question, including limiting surveillance CT scans in asymptomatic patients following curative-intent treatment for aggressive lymphoma.
A new report illustrates a surprisingly large global burden of anemia, characterized by low hemoglobin levels and impaired oxygen delivery to the body. Despite decreasing prevalence between 1990 and 2010, anemia remains a significant health issue, particularly among young children and women in low- and middle-income regions.
A study by the American Society of Hematology found that bone marrow transplant is linked to diminished sexual health in both men and women. Chronic graft-versus-host disease and total body irradiation are particularly damaging, with men experiencing a decline in libido and dysfunction.
Research reveals an inherited genetic defect in the interleukin-10 (IL-10) pathway is associated with a higher risk of developing certain types of blood cancer, such as diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, in infants and children. The study suggests that chronic intestinal inflammation may play a role in cancer development.
New research shows hydroxyurea treatment can lower medical costs for children with sickle cell disease by preventing complications and reducing hospitalizations. The study found that children treated with hydroxyurea incurred $3,000 less in medical costs per year compared to those who received standard therapy plus placebo.
A recent study published in Critical Reviews in Oncology/Hematology found that calcium and vitamin D supplements do not prevent bone mineral density loss in women undergoing breast cancer treatment. Women with breast cancer experience a higher rate of bone loss than healthy counterparts, increasing their risk of fractures.
Researchers found that a combination of calorie restriction and targeted therapy may increase cancer survival. Calorie restriction decreased Mcl-1 protein activity, sensitizing lymphoma cells to treatment. This study suggests a potential new approach to improve cancer treatment efficacy.
Researchers at Weill Cornell Medicine discovered that pretreating patients with low doses of azacitidine, a targeted drug, can enhance chemotherapy's ability to kill cancer cells. This approach has the potential to change the standard of care for patients with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma and may be applicable to other tumor types.
Kenneth Kaushansky and David J. Kuter are honored with the 2013 Ernest Beutler Lecture for their significant advances in thrombopoietin, a growth factor regulating platelet production. Drs. Kaushansky and Kuter will present their lecture on December 9 at the 55th ASH Annual Meeting.
Nancy Andrews, MD, PhD, was recognized for her work on iron homeostasis and erythropoiesis, while Elaine Jaffe, MD, received the award for her clinical/traslational research on lymphoma. Both scientists have made significant contributions to their respective fields.
Katherine A. High, MD, receives the 2013 E. Donnall Thomas Lecture and Prize for her pioneering research on gene therapy for hemophilia and inherited retinal degenerative diseases. Her work has led to sustained clinical improvements using adeno-associated virus vectors.
Dr. Andrew S. Weyrich receives the 2013 William Dameshek Prize for his seminal work on the cellular and molecular causes of blood clots, revolutionizing our understanding of platelet function. His research has far-reaching implications in hematology and beyond.
Researchers used MFC and RQ-PCR to monitor minimal residual disease in patients with Ph+ ALL, finding that a negative reading was associated with prolonged survival. The study suggests that these technologies may be effective in predicting patient outcomes and guiding treatment decisions.
Hyundai Hope on Wheels has awarded a $75,000 Hyundai Scholar Grant to Dr. Vivian Chang at UCLA's Children's Discovery and Innovation Institute to support her research on DNA sequencing technology for identifying cancerous genes in children. The grant will enable oncologists to design personalized surveillance programs using advanced to...
A new liposomal formulation of anthracycline-based chemotherapy has shown promising results in treating pediatric leukemia patients, with high survival rates and minimal heart toxicity. The treatment regimen was found to be effective at higher-than-standard doses without causing added cardiotoxicity.
The increasing cost of leukemia treatments in the US is leaving many patients under- or untreated due to unaffordable care. CML experts call for a long-term solution to manage treatment costs, balancing investments from various parties.
A new study identifies osteopontin as a potential new leukemia treatment target. The protein helps leukemia cells avoid the effects of chemotherapy by appearing dormant in the bone marrow environment.
A large population-based study found that stillbirth and pre-term birth are associated with a significantly increased risk of blood clots after pregnancy. The study identified several factors that increase the risk of blood clots, including obesity, caesarian section delivery, and pre-term birth.
A study published in Blood journal found that cord blood stem cells are effective and safe alternatives to matched donor bone marrow stem cells in treating children with Hurler's syndrome. The research showed improved engraftment rates, enzyme levels, and survival rates among patients who received cord blood transplants compared to tho...