Articles tagged with Hematology
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.
Patients with acute myeloid leukemia who received VIDAZA had significantly increased overall survival compared to those treated with conventional care regimens. Approximately half of the AML patients treated with VIDAZA survived at least two years, compared to just 16% of those receiving conventional chemotherapy.
Phase II trials demonstrate significant activity of pomalidomide in MM and myelofibrosis, with disease improvement or stabilization in 76% of patients. Pomalidomide also shows promise in patients who previously did not respond to REVLIMID therapy.
A new analysis of the AZA-001 phase III clinical trial shows that Vidaza significantly improves response rates for higher-risk MDS patients. Continued treatment with Vidaza leads to improved responses in nearly half of patients, offering hope for those who initially have a weak response.
Researchers evaluated REVLIMID's clinical benefit in relapsed/refractory diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) patients, demonstrating improved response durations and safety profiles. The study's results support the use of REVLIMID as a treatment option for these patients.
The American Society of Hematology honors Clara D. Bloomfield, Kenneth Anderson, and Robert Kyle for their significant contributions to the understanding of hematologic diseases. Drs. Bloomfield and Anderson will be recognized for their work on acute myelogenous leukemia and multiple myeloma, respectively.
The American Society of Hematology has introduced a new grant program to provide protected research time for medical fellows, aiming to improve their training and skills. The ASH Research Training Award for Fellows supports junior researchers in pursuing careers in academic hematology.
The American Society of Hematology has launched an initiative to provide increased support for training programs in hematology-related disciplines. Three grant recipients will develop new curricula that integrate emerging technologies into traditional training programs, addressing the need for clinicians and clinical researchers with s...
The American Society of Hematology's Clinical Research Training Institute is providing a unique year-long education and mentoring program for promising hematologists. Participants will receive tools to develop their research skills and work on proposed clinical projects with expert faculty guidance.
The American Society of Hematology has selected 15 minority medical students for its 2008 Minority Medical Student Award Program. The program provides research mentorship, career development support, and travel stipends to attend medical meetings.
A study suggests that expectant women treated with imatinib for chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) may be at moderate risk of developing fetal abnormalities. The majority of pregnancies resulted in normal live infants, but some were born with congenital abnormalities, including exomphalos, renal agenesis, and hemivertebrae.
Two European hematologists will pursue research projects in the US through the EHA-ASH International Fellowship Award. Lapo Alinari and Serena Kimi Perna will gain invaluable experience and advance their careers in hematology, with funding support from the American Society of Hematology.
Researchers are using patients' own bone marrow stem cells to treat cardiac muscle damage after a heart attack. The study, funded by biotech company Amorcyte, has progressed halfway through its four planned groups of patients and aims to assess the safety and feasibility of harvesting bone marrow cells.
A new study by Brandeis University researchers finds that many pediatric oncologists lack the necessary training to build bridges with families of critically ill children through religion and spirituality. The study suggests that providing this type of training could improve patient outcomes.
A study of 454 patients with chronic-phase CML taking imatinib for over six years found a high estimated six-year survival rate of 76 percent and strong correlation between overall survival rates and cytogenetic response. The incidence of serious side effects was low, with no long-term new toxicities observed.
Dr. Wise Young, a world-renowned expert in spinal cord injury, is being recognized for his groundbreaking research and passionate support of stem cell therapy. He will receive the Melvyn H. Motolinsky Research Foundation’s Distinguished Service Award for his compassionate approach to science.
A study estimates nearly one-third of hospitalized US patients are vulnerable to VTE, which can lead to dire complications. Researchers stress the need for reinforcing national guidelines and monitoring compliance with hospital protocols for VTE prevention, as well as educating outpatients on preventive measures.
ChemGenex's lead compound Ceflatonin demonstrates clinical activity against Gleevec-resistant CML patients with the T315I Bcr-Abl mutation. A significant reduction in T315I levels and complete disappearance of the mutation were observed, indicating a potential therapeutic alternative for these patients.
Two promising blood cancer researchers, Giovanni Roti and Marta Crespo, will each receive $75,000 to fund their research in the US. The EHA-ASH International Fellowship Award aims to build stronger ties between European and North American scientific communities.
Researchers at Mayo Clinic Cancer Center have led efforts to test new therapies in multiple myeloma, improving effectiveness and reducing toxicity. Studies show high response rates with lenalidomide and bortezomib, and a synergistic effect when targeting both tumor cells and microenvironment.
Dr. E. Richard Stanley has been recognized with the 2006 E. Donnall Thomas Prize for his groundbreaking research on CSF-1, which plays a crucial role in regulating cell proliferation, differentiation, and function in various diseases. His studies have also shed light on the roles of CSF-1 and its receptor in development and cancer.
A recent study found that elevated lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) levels can define a subgroup of sickle cell patients at risk for serious complications such as pulmonary hypertension and leg ulcerations. Patients with high LDH values had reduced survival rates compared to those with lower LDH values.
Hematologists say coagulation-factor concentrates from plasma are now deemed safe from most infectious agents, but challenges from new agents remain. Recombinant products offer a risk-free alternative, but safety studies have not definitively made the case for either.
ASH's Minority Medical Student Award Program (MMSAP) aims to motivate minority medical students to enter the field of hematology. The program provides a research experience for students from the US and Canada, with the goal of increasing diversity in hematology.
Recent studies have shown that treatment of chronic myeloid leukemia has improved significantly, with a focus on reducing residual disease through continued therapy and new treatment options. These advances have led to better prognosis for patients, providing substantial prolongation of normal life.
A new study shows that hydroxyurea is an efficient and safe treatment option for young children with sickle cell anemia, improving spleen function and reducing acute chest syndrome incidents
A large study comparing thalidomide and traditional chemotherapy in multiple myeloma patients found that thalidomide was more effective, with 76% of patients achieving at least partial remission. The treatment also had fewer side effects, particularly deep vein thrombosis compared to granulocytopenia.
A new diagnostic test is being developed to target a range of blood disorders by detecting a single point mutation in the JAK2 gene. The mutation was found in virtually all patients with polycythaemia vera, as well as half of those with essential thrombocythaemia and idiopathic myelofibrosis.
Researchers developed T cells targeting Epstein Barr virus antigens to treat advanced nasopharyngeal carcinoma. Six out of ten patients remained disease-free after treatment, with some experiencing partial remission.
The McMaster researchers developed a detailed bleeding history questionnaire to discriminate between patients with QPD and those without. The tool helps identify higher likelihoods of bleeding that leads to lifestyle changes, bruises or bleeding in joints, providing valuable clues for doctors diagnosing the condition.
A USC/Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center study reveals significant differences in survival rates between HIV-related lymphoma types, including DLCL and SNC. The research suggests that optimal therapy may differ for these sub-types of disease.
The study found that low- and intermediate-risk MDS patients benefit from delayed bone marrow transplantation after diagnosis, while high- and intermediate-risk patients may maximize overall survival with immediate transplantation. This research provides valuable insights for managing myelodysplasia patients.
Researchers found that higher doses of imatinib were more effective in achieving complete cytogenetic response (CCR) and complete molecular response, with a CCR rate of 90% compared to 60-75%. The high dosage was also well-tolerated with similar side effects as standard dose imatinib.
The American Society of Hematology has awarded Gary Gilliland and Janet Rowley for their significant contributions to hematology research. Dr. Gilliland's work on the molecular pathogenesis of leukemia and discovery of a cause for hypereosinophilic syndrome have provided new ways to understand cancer, while Dr. Rowley's discoveries of ...
The study found that adding rituximab to the CHOP regimen as a first-line treatment did not significantly impact overall response rates or early disease progression. Maintenance rituximab showed promise in prolonging time-to-treatment failure, but had no effect on overall survival.
A new direct thrombin inhibitor, ximelagatran, has shown promising results in preventing recurrent venous thromboembolism in patients with acute deep vein thrombosis. The study found that oral ximelagatran was as effective as enoxaparin/warfarin in preventing this condition, while also reducing major bleeding and mortality rates.
The American Society of Hematology presents the 2003 Public Service Award to Sen. Dianne Feinstein for her leadership on medical research and patient care issues. ASH also awards Dr. Claude Lenfant with its first-ever Lifetime Service Award for his decades-long dedication to hematology research and training.
Decitabine, an antimetabolite drug, has been found to improve fetal hemoglobin levels and reduce symptoms in patients with sickle cell disease who are resistant or intolerant of hydroxyurea. The study suggests that decitabine could be a viable alternative therapy for these patients.