Articles tagged with Hematology
A majority of hematologic oncologists report that end-of-life discussions happen too late, with most discussions occurring when death was clearly imminent. The delay may be attributed to the curative potential of many advanced hematologic cancers, leading to a lack of clear distinction between curative and palliative care phases.
A new antibody called ACE910 has shown promising results in reducing the need for frequent injections in patients with severe hemophilia A. The study found that ACE910 is safe and effective in preventing excessive bleeding, even in patients who develop antibodies to existing treatments.
A study found that sirolimus successfully resolved autoimmune conditions in children with ALPS without adverse side effects. The treatment improved blood cell counts and quality of life for patients, making it a potential early therapy option.
A study found that patients with persistent Coxiella burnetii infections, which cause Q fever, are at a higher risk of developing non-Hodgkin lymphoma. The researchers discovered that these patients often have overproduction of interleukin-10, allowing the cancer cells to evade immune detection.
Patients with light-chain (AL) amyloidosis treated with high-dose chemotherapy and autologous stem cell transplantation have the greatest success for long-term survival. Nearly one-third of patients achieved up to 20-year survival after treatment.
A Phase 2 open-label study found that brentuximab vedotin achieved a high response rate, including complete remissions, in older Hodgkin lymphoma patients unfit for chemotherapy. The treatment was generally well-tolerated, with peripheral sensory neuropathy being the most common adverse event.
A McMaster University hematologist has identified various limb loss syndromes, including symmetric peripheral gangrene and venous limb gangrene, which can be caused by septic shock, cancer, and blood clotting disorders. The treatment for these conditions involves the use of blood thinners and replacement of protective factors.
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 new study published in The Lancet Haematology found that PET-CT is more accurate than conventional CT scanning in measuring response to treatment and predicting survival in patients with follicular lymphoma. The findings suggest that PET-CT should be used routinely in clinical practice to improve patient outcomes.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Researchers developed a drug regimen that eradicated CRE colonization in 44% of patients, significantly reducing mortality rates. The treatment was found to be safe and effective for eliminating the carrier state, which can reduce patient-to-patient transmission.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Researchers propose a novel risk stratification model for bladder cancer patients treated with radical cystectomy, utilizing clinico-pathological and pre-operative hematological factors. The study found that low hemoglobin and high C-reacted protein levels are independent prognostic indicators for disease-specific survival.
An ASH international clinical network collaboration improved APL survival rates by replicating a high cure rate of 85% in patients in Central and South America. The standard-of-care protocol, including oral ATRA and daunorubicin-based chemotherapy, showed promising results with low cumulative incidence of relapse.
Researchers have identified a new approach to treating lymphoma by combining a toll-like receptor agonist with radiation, resulting in durable anti-tumor immune responses. Additionally, scientists have developed model-based decision rules to predict the safety of therapy discontinuation for patients with chronic myeloid leukemia.
A new study reveals cultural and social factors that hinder minority participation in stem cell donation, leading to lower patient success rates. Minority donors are more likely to opt-out due to concerns about health complications and mistrust of the medical system.
A survey of American researchers at the ASH annual meeting found that 63% relied on NIH funding for their studies. This reliance is seen across both U.S. and international respondents, with 75% expressing extreme concern about potential budget cuts.
Researchers present promising results from a Phase II study on quizartinib, a targeted therapy that may turn treatment-resistant leukemia into manageable conditions. The study shows great potential in turning fatal disease subtypes into chronic conditions with regular treatment.
Researchers found that ibrutinib effectively treats CLL with high response rates and durable remissions, particularly in elderly patients. The study also showed manageable toxicities, with only non-severe side effects observed.
Researchers examined current treatment standards for patients with clotting disorders, aiming to reduce toxicities and relapse rates. Maintaining hematocrit levels below 45% was associated with a lower risk of thrombosis compared to a more liberal approach.
Dr. Margaret A. Goodell is awarded the 2012 William Dameshek Prize for her groundbreaking work on hematopoietic stem cells and their role in regulating the immune response.
Dr. James George is recognized for his pioneering work on platelet glycoproteins, diagnosis and clinical management of idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) and thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP). He has also made significant contributions to education, research, and practice through various initiatives.
Researchers found that the CyBorD/CVD regimen can lead to complete hematologic response and may make AL amyloidosis patients eligible for stem cell transplants. This effective multiple myeloma treatment is already widely used, offering a potential therapy for those with few treatment options.
For the first time, researchers have successfully injected cultured red blood cells (cRBCs) created from human hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) into a human donor. The cRBCs were capable of progressing through the full maturation process and demonstrated survival rates comparable to conventional native red blood cells.
A pilot project aims to improve the accuracy of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) diagnoses in Mexico by standardizing cytogenetic testing. Four Mexican laboratories will participate in the project, which includes a two-year program with oversight from ASH, AMEH, and NCI experts.
A study published in Blood reveals that imatinib treatment has no significant impact on the outcome of chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) patients aged 65 and older. The research found that complete hematologic response rates, cytogenetic response rates, and overall survival rates were similar between younger and older patients treated wit...
A study published in Blood demonstrates that newborn screening and early diagnosis of Severe Combined Immunodeficiency (SCID) can improve survival rates. Babies diagnosed at birth and receiving a hematopoietic stem cell transplant have significantly reduced infections and improved survival outcomes.
The American Society of Hematology awards $100,000 to fellows and $150,000 to junior faculty for a two- to three-year research period. The 2011 Scholar Award recipients include Basic Research Fellow Omar I. Abdel-Wahab, MD, and Clinical/Translational Research Fellow Samantha M. Jaglowski, MD.
Researchers have made significant strides in understanding the optimal use of BCR-ABL inhibitors for acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) and chronic myeloid leukemia (CML). A new gene target has also been identified, showing a long-term survival advantage for patients treated with imatinib earlier in the treatment protocol.
Researchers investigate genetic predictors of stroke in pediatric sickle cell disease patients, validating biomarkers and identifying new risk factors. Additionally, a potential breakthrough may inhibit malaria transmission, offering hope for controlling the disease.
The updated guideline advises physicians to discuss individual risks and benefits of ESAs with cancer patients, recommending cautious use due to associated risks of thromboembolism and tumor progression. ESAs are still effective in reducing red blood cell transfusions, which can impact quality of life.
Two Elsevier medical titles, Color Atlas of Clinical Hematology and Kumar & Clark's Clinical Medicine, won first prize in their respective categories at the BMA Medical Book Competition. The awards recognize the quality and expertise in these medical texts.
The American Society of Hematology (ASH) has developed recommendations for advancing regenerative medicine. The key focus areas include recognizing regenerative medicine as a priority at the National Institutes of Health (NIH), re-examining clinical trial methodologies, and improving communication between basic and clinical scientists.
The American Society of Hematology will honor six scientists with significant contributions to the understanding and treatment of hematologic diseases. Volker Diehl, Sanford Shattil, David T. Scadden, Leonard I. Zon, Barry S. Coller, and Joel S. Bennett will receive awards for their pioneering research in Hodgkin lymphoma, platelet cel...
A study found that more than 40% of patients with treatment-resistant CLL enjoyed long-term freedom from relapse after receiving allogeneic stem cell transplants. The transplants were associated with significant risks but offered a potential cure for this patient population.
A new study of 1,960 White-Americans and 368 Black-Americans with VTE found that Blacks had a significantly higher proportion with pulmonary embolism and idiopathic PE, as well as a higher incidence of VTE. The study suggests that true causes for these racial differences remain unknown and warrant further investigation.
A Phase II clinical trial of eliglustat tartrate, an oral therapy, demonstrates significant improvements in spleen volume, hemoglobin level, and platelet count. The treatment also normalizes glucosylceramide plasma levels and improves bone mineral density.
Researchers have developed a new protocol to improve the survival of patients with acute promyelocytic leukemia and chronic myeloid leukemia, particularly in developing countries. The study found a significant improvement in early mortality and long-term outcomes, with high rates of complete remission.
Researchers found that omacetaxine achieved durable responses in CML patients with the T315I mutation, who have limited treatment options. The injectable drug works by a different mechanism than current therapies and has shown promise for expanded use.
The American Society of Hematology recognizes outstanding abstract presenters with the 2009 Merit Award, offering $500 honorariums to the best trainees in hemostasis and thrombosis. The winners include Kimberly Fan, Kyle Eash, Hélène Moniz, An De Weer, Suparna Nanua, MD, PhD, Jian Xu, PhD, and Rudy Fuentes.
The American Society of Hematology recognizes Stuart H. Orkin, MD, and Arthur W. Nienhuis, MD, for their significant contributions to mentoring in hematology. Drs. Orkin and Nienhuis will receive the Mentor Award for Basic Science and Clinical Investigation, respectively.
Arthur Nienhuis, M.D., of St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, received the 2009 ASH Mentor Award for his dedication to mentoring trainees and colleagues. His expertise in bone marrow transplantation and gene therapy paved the way for many advances in hematological disorders.
A new study demonstrates the effectiveness of immunotherapy using specialized white blood cells to prevent or treat EBV-lymphoma in patients who have received a hematopoietic stem cell transplant. The therapy achieved sustained complete remission in 85% of treated patients and long-term protection for up to nine years.
A study of 7,689 admissions found that early intensive care unit admission significantly reduces mortality in critically ill patients with haematological malignancy. Factors associated with increased risk of death include bone marrow transplantation and severe sepsis.
The American Society of Hematology is honoring six scientists for their significant contributions to hematologic diseases, including the diagnosis and treatment of lymphomas and leukemia. The awards recognize pioneering research achievements and outstanding leadership in advancing the field of hematology.
A study of 678 pesticide users found a double risk of developing MGUS compared to the general population. The research suggests exposure to certain pesticides increases the risk of this abnormal blood condition, which requires lifelong monitoring as it can lead to multiple myeloma.
A new study published in American Journal of Hematology finds that iron chelation therapy is not a reliable predictor of patient survival. Instead, degree of anemia and need for red blood cell transfusion at diagnosis are stronger predictors.