Unravelling the spectrum of von Willebrand factor variants in quantitative von Willebrand disease: results from a German cohort study.

BACKGROUND: Von Willebrand disease (VWD), the most prevalent hereditary bleeding disorder, results from deficiency of von Willebrand factor (VWF). OBJECTIVES: This large cohort study aims to offer a comprehensive exploration of mutation spectra and laboratory features in quantitative VWF deficiencies, shedding light on genetic underpinnings and genotype-phenotype associations. METHODS: Our cohort consisted of 221 Caucasian index patients with quantitative VWD, along with 47 individuals whose plasma VWF levels fell within the lower normal boundaries (50-70 IU/dL). We conducted comprehensive VWF assays and genetic analyses, encompassing VWF gene sequencing, copy number variation investigations, and bioinformatic assessments. RESULTS: Following International Society on Thrombosis and Haemostasis-Scientific and Standardization Committee VWF guidelines, 77 index patients were characterized as having type 1 VWD (VWF antigen [VWF:Ag] < 30 IU/dL), 111 as having type 1 VWD (VWF:Ag, 30-50 IU/dL), and 33 as having type 3 VWD. Mutation detection rates were 88%, 65%, and 92%, respectively. Notably, blood group O overrepresentation was evident in type 1 with VWF:Ag of 30 to 50 IU/dL, particularly among mutation-negative patients, suggesting a potential causal role of blood group O. A total of 223 VWF variants, comprising 147 distinct variations, were identified in quantitative VWD patients, of which 57 were novel variants (39%). Additionally, approximately 70% of individuals with VWF levels within the lower normal boundaries (50-70 IU/dL) displayed VWF variants. CONCLUSION: Our data advance our understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying quantitative VWD, offering valuable insights for future research and clinical management. Distinct mutation patterns were observed among subgroups, particularly the contrast between type 1 VWD (VWF:Ag < 30 IU/dL) and type 1 VWD (VWF:Ag, 30-50 IU/dL), an area with limited prior investigation.

Patient perspective on living with mild hemophilia in Germany: results from a nationwide survey.

Introduction: The disease burden and bleeding risk of patients with mild hemophilia may be underestimated. Their health-related quality of life (QoL) may be negatively impacted by insufficient treatment and bleed-related joint damage connected to a potentially delayed diagnosis. Aim: This study aims to gain information on the care reality and QoL of patients aged ≥12 years with mild hemophilia in Germany. Methods: An anonymous cross-sectional patient survey using standardized questionnaires was conducted in a validated electronic patient-reported outcome system. Medical specialists, hemophilia centers, patient organizations, and support groups across Germany invited the patients. Results: A total of 43 patients (35 patients with hemophilia A, 5 patients with hemophilia B, and 3 patients for whom the information was missing) with a median age of 33 years were analyzed. The median age at diagnosis was 6.0 years (interquartile range [IQR] 2.0-15.0), and the median factor activity was 14.0% (IQR 12.0-25.0). Nearly 85% of the patients received factor concentrates in the past, and the most common reasons for the treatment were surgery or joint bleeding (each 65.6%). Half of the patients who provided feedback experienced complications during bleeding episodes. Prophylactic treatment with factor concentrates was rare (10.3%). The patients had minor problems regarding their health status. Conclusion: Bleeding complications and joint bleeding, in particular, may be highly underestimated in patients with mild hemophilia, highlighting a medical need in this population. Patients with a potential benefit from prophylaxis need to be identified. Mild hemophilia has a negative impact on patients' QoL. Hemophilia centers satisfied the patients' needs. Further research is needed to address the current lack of awareness and improve adequate treatment in the future.

Congenital fibrinogen disorders: a retrospective clinical and genetic analysis of the Prospective Rare Bleeding Disorders Database.

ABSTRACT: Congenital fibrinogen deficiency (CFD) is a rare bleeding disorder caused by mutations in FGA, FGB, and FGG. We sought to comprehensively characterize patients with CFD using PRO-RBDD (Prospective Rare Bleeding Disorders Database). Clinical phenotypes, laboratory, and genetic features were investigated using retrospective data from the PRO-RBDD. Patients were classified from asymptomatic to grade 3 based on their bleeding severity. In addition, FGA, FGB, and FGG were sequenced to find causative variants. A total of 166 CFD cases from 16 countries were included, of whom 123 (30 afibrinogenemia, 33 hypofibrinogenemia, 55 dysfibrinogenemia, and 5 hypodysfibrinogenemia) were well characterized. Considering the previously established factor activity and antigen level thresholds, bleeding severity was correctly identified in 58% of the cases. The rates of thrombotic events among afibrinogenemic and hypofibrinogenemic patients were relatively similar (11% and 10%, respectively) and surprisingly higher than in dysfibrinogenemic cases. The rate of spontaneous abortions among 68 pregnancies was 31%, including 86% in dysfibrinogenemic women and 14% with hypofibrinogenemia. Eighty-six patients received treatment (69 on-demand and/or 17 on prophylaxis), with fibrinogen concentrates being the most frequently used product. Genetic analysis was available for 91 cases and 41 distinct variants were identified. Hotspot variants (FGG, p.Arg301Cys/His and FGA, p.Arg35Cys/His) were present in 51% of dysfibrinogenemia. Obstetric complications were commonly observed in dysfibrinogenemia. This large multicenter study provided a comprehensive insight into the clinical, laboratory, and genetic history of patients with CFDs. We conclude that bleeding severity grades were in agreement with the established factor activity threshold in nearly half of the cases with quantitative defects.

Cases of less-than-expected FVIII activity in previously treated patients during post-marketing surveillance of N8-GP.

INTRODUCTION: Turoctocog alfa pegol (N8-GP) is a glycoPEGylated, extended half-life (EHL), human recombinant factor VIII (FVIII) approved for the treatment and prevention of bleeding episodes in patients with haemophilia A. Since its launch in August 2019, > 800 patients have been treated worldwide. AIM: To present data from identified post-marketing cases of less-than-expected FVIII activity in previously treated patients (PTPs) without inhibitors after switching to N8-GP. METHODS: The post-marketing safety database was searched using keywords such as 'coagulation FVIII level decreased'. Identified cases reported prior to 13 October 2021 were included in this report. Cases in which patients had FVIII inhibitors were excluded. RESULTS: Here we report 14 cases of less-than-expected FVIII activity. Details varied greatly amongst the cases. At presentation, FVIII activity ranged from 1% (15 min post-dose) to 51% (2 days post-dose). Seven patients experienced bleeding episodes after switching to N8-GP with heterogeneity in bleeding presentations. Six out of seven patients who were tested for anti-PEG IgG and/or IgM antibodies were positive. In all known cases, FVIII activity returned to the expected range when switched to an alternative FVIII replacement product. CONCLUSION: In conclusion, the 14 reported cases of less-than-expected FVIII activity, without presence of detectable FVIII inhibitors, presented with heterogenous characteristics, and wide variations in FVIII activity and anti-PEG antibody titre. FVIII activity returned to the expected range after switching to alternative FVIII products. In line with WFH guidelines, monitoring of FVIII activity can ensure FVIII activity in the expected range. The safety surveillance of N8-GP continues.

Design of a Real-World Observational Study in Previously Untreated and Minimally Treated Hemophilia A Patients: Protect-NOW.

Background The efficacy, safety, and immunogenicity of each of Octapharma's factor VIII (FVIII) products, Nuwiq, octanate, and wilate, have been investigated in previously untreated patients (PUPs) with severe hemophilia A in prospective clinical trials. The aim of the Protect-NOW study is to evaluate the effectiveness, safety, and utilization patterns of Nuwiq, octanate, and wilate in PUPs and minimally treated patients (MTPs; <5 exposure days [EDs] to FVIII concentrates or other blood products containing FVIII) with severe hemophilia A in a real-world setting. Real-world data provide valuable information that complement data obtained from interventional clinical trials. Methods Protect-NOW (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT03695978; ISRCTN identifier: 11492145) is a real-world study in PUPs and MTPs treated with either the human cell line-derived recombinant FVIII Nuwiq (simoctocog alfa) or a plasma-derived FVIII concentrate containing von Willebrand factor (octanate or wilate). It is a prospective and (partly) retrospective, observational, international, noncontrolled, noninterventional study. A total of 140 PUPs and MTPs with severe hemophilia A will be enrolled across around 50 specialized centers worldwide and followed for either 100 EDs or a maximum period of 3 years from ED1. The primary objectives are to assess effectiveness in the prevention and treatment of bleeding episodes and overall safety, including inhibitor development. The secondary objectives are to assess utilization patterns (including dosage and frequency of administration) and the effectiveness in surgical prophylaxis. Conclusions The Protect-NOW study will provide information on the treatment of PUPs and MTPs in routine clinical practice, which will help guide clinical decision making for treating these patients in the future.

Genotype-Phenotype Relationship among 785 Unrelated White Women with Inherited Congenital Factor VII Deficiency: A Three-Center Database Study.

BACKGROUND: Congenital factor VII (FVII) deficiency, a rare bleeding disorder resulting from mutations in the F7 gene with autosomal recessive inheritance, exhibits clinical heterogeneity that lacks a strong correlation with FVII:C levels. The objective of this study was to discern genetic defects and assess their associations with the clinical phenotype in a substantial cohort comprising 785 white women exhibiting FVII:C levels below the age-dependent cut-off percentage. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Individuals with verified inherited factor VII deficiency underwent i) genotyping using the Sanger method and multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification (MLPA) to identify F7 mutations, including common polymorphic variants. Additionally, they were ii) categorized based on clinical bleeding scores (BS). Thrombophilic variants and blood groups were also determined in the study participants. RESULTS: The probands in this study encompassed both asymptomatic individuals (referred for a laboratory investigation due to recurrent prolonged prothrombin time; n = 221) and patients who manifested mild, moderate, or severe bleeding episodes (n = 564). The spectrum of bleeding symptoms included epistaxis, gum bleeding, gastrointestinal bleeding, hematuria, postoperative bleeding, and gynecologic hemorrhage. The median ISTH bleeding score (BS) recorded within a two-year period prior to the work-up was 2 (0-17). Notably, this score was significantly higher in symptomatic women compared to their asymptomatic counterparts (3 versus 0; p < 0.001). The corresponding PBAC score before hormonal treatment stood at 225 (5-1200), exhibiting a positive correlation with the ISTH BS (rho = 0.38; p = 0.001). Blood group O was more prevalent in symptomatic women compared to asymptomatic individuals (58 versus 42%; p = 0.01). Among the 329 women (42%), known and novel mutations in the F7 gene, encompassing coding regions, exon/intron boundaries, and the promoter region, were identified, while common polymorphisms were detected in 647 subjects (95%). Logistic regression analysis, adjusted for clinical and laboratory data (including blood group, FVII activity, the presence of F7 gene mutations and/or polymorphisms, thrombophilia status, and additional factor deficiencies) revealed that older age at referral (increase per year) (odds/95% CI: 1.02/1.007-1.03), the presence of blood group O (odds/95% CI: 1.9/1.2-3.3), and the coexistence of further bleeding defects (odds/95% CI: 1.8/1.03-3.1) partially account for the differences in the clinical bleeding phenotype associated with FVII deficiency. CONCLUSION: The clinical phenotype in individuals with FVII deficiency is impacted by factors such as age, blood group, and the concurrent presence of other bleeding defects.

Sixth Åland Island Conference on von Willebrand disease.

INTRODUCTION: The sixth Åland Islands Conference on von Willebrand disease (VWD) on the Åland Islands, Finland, was held from 20 to 22 September 2018. AIM: The meeting brought together experts in the field of VWD from around the world to share the latest advances and knowledge in VWD. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: The topics covered both clinical aspects of disease management, and biochemical and laboratory insights into the disease. The clinical topics discussed included epidemiology, diagnosis and treatment of VWD in different countries, management of children with VWD, bleeding control during surgery, specific considerations for the management of type 3 VWD and bleeding control in women with VWD. Current approaches to the management of acquired von Willebrand syndrome were also discussed. Despite significant advances in the understanding and therapeutic options for VWD, there remain many challenges to be overcome in order to optimise patient care. In comparison with haemophilia A, there are very few registries of VWD patients, which would be a valuable source of data on the condition and its management. VWD is still underdiagnosed, and many patients suffer recurrent or severe bleeding that could be prevented. Awareness of VWD among healthcare practitioners, including non-haematologists, should be improved to allow timely diagnosis and intervention. Diagnosis remains challenging, and the development of fast, simple assays may help to facilitate accurate and rapid diagnosis of VWD.

Screening and diagnosis of hemoglobinopathies in Germany: Current state and future perspectives.

This monocentric study conducted at the Pediatric and Adult Hemoglobinopathy Outpatient Units of the University Hospital of Essen summarizes the results of hemoglobinopathies diagnosed between August 2018 and September 2021, prior to the introduction of a general newborn screening (NBS) for SCD in Germany (October 2021). In total, 339 patients (pts.), 182 pediatric [50.5% males (92/182)] and 157 adult pts. [75.8% females (119/157)] were diagnosed by molecular analysis. The most common (parental) descent among affected pts. were the Middle Eastern and North African/Turkey (Turkey: 19.8%, Syria: 11.8%, and Iraq: 5.9%), and the sub-Saharan African region (21.3%). Median age at diagnosis in pediatric carriers [N = 157; 54.1% males (85/157)] was 6.2 yrs. (range 1 (months) mos.-17.8 yrs.) and 31 yrs. (range 18-65 yrs.) in adults [N = 53; 75.2% females (115/153)]. Median age at diagnosis of homozygous or compound-heterozygous disease in pediatric pts. (72% (18/25) females) was 3.7 yrs., range 4 mos.-17 yrs. (HbSS (N = 13): 2.5 yrs., range 5 mos.-7.8 yrs.; HbS/C disease (N = 5): 8 yrs., range 1-8 yrs.; homozygous/compound heterozygous ß-thalassemia (N = 5): 8 yrs., range 3-13 yrs.), in contrast to HbH disease (N = 5): 18 yrs. (median), range 12-40 yrs. Hemoglobinopathies represent a relevant health problem in Germany due to immigration and late diagnosis of second/third generation migrants. SCD-NBS will accelerate diagnosis and might result in reduction of disease-associated morbidity. However, diagnosis of carriers and/or disease-states (i.e. thalassemic syndromes) in newly immigrated and undiagnosed patients will further be delayed. A first major step has been taken, but further steps are required.

Safety of intramuscular COVID-19 vaccination in patients with haemophilia.

BACKGROUND: Guidelines recommend that patients with haemophilia should preferably receive vaccination subcutaneously. COVID-19 and other vaccines, however, are only licenced for intramuscular application. AIMS: To assess the safety of intramuscular COVID-19 vaccination in patients living with haemophilia. METHODS: Part A of this prospective observational study enrolled consecutive patients with haemophilia A (HA) and B (HB) of all ages and severities and assessed injection site bleeding and other complications within 30 days of vaccination. Part B enrolled patients providing informed consent for detailed data collection including medication and prophylaxis around the time of vaccination. Logistic regression was performed to assess potential risk factors for bleeding. RESULTS: Four hundred and sixty-one patients were enrolled into part A. The primary endpoint injection site bleeding occurred in seven patients (1.5%, 95% confidence interval .7-3.1%). Comprehensive analysis of 214 patients (404 vaccinations, part B) revealed that 97% of patients with severe haemophilia had prophylaxis before vaccination, either as part of their routine prophylaxis or using additional doses. 56% and 30% of patients with moderate and mild haemophilia, respectively, received prophylaxis before vaccination. Among the seven bleeds recorded, three occurred when intramuscular vaccination was done without prophylaxis (odds ratio 12). CONCLUSIONS: This is the first prospective study reporting on the safety of intramuscular vaccination in haemophilia. The rate of injection site bleeding was low in mild haemophilia, and in moderate and severe haemophilia if patients received factor prophylaxis.

New Anticoagulants in Neonates, Children, and Adolescents.

Thrombotic events are an increasing challenge in pediatrics. Standard-of-care anticoagulants for pediatric thrombosis have several disadvantages which could be overcome by using direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs). Until recently, there was not enough evidence from clinical trials to recommend for or against the use of any of the four DOACs in children with thrombosis. In this literature review, we looked at the latest clinical trials in this field. On clinicaltrials.gov, we found 13 current studies with published results. For two of the four DOACs, namely dabigatran and rivaroxaban, we found successful phase III studies which led to the approval for the use in children. The results of these pivotal phase III studies allow to finally recommend rivaroxaban and dabigatran for the prophylaxis and treatment of thrombotic events in children.

Consensus Recommendations for Intramuscular COVID-19 Vaccination in Patients with Hemophilia.

BACKGROUND: Currently available coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccines are approved for intramuscular injection and efficacy may not be ensured when given subcutaneously. For years, subcutaneous vaccination was recommended in patients with hemophilia to avoid intramuscular bleeds. Therefore, recommendations for the application of COVID-19 vaccines are needed. METHODS: The Delphi methodology was used to develop consensus recommendations. An initial list of recommendations was prepared by a steering committee and evaluated by 39 hemophilia experts. Consensus was defined as ≥75% agreement and strong consensus as ≥95% agreement, and agreement as a score ≥7 on a scale of 1 to 9. After four rounds, a final list of statements was compiled. RECOMMENDATIONS: Consensus was achieved that COVID-19 vaccines licensed only for intramuscular injection should be administered intramuscularly in hemophilia patients. Prophylactic factor replacement, given on the day of vaccination with a maximum interval between prophylaxis and vaccination of 24 hours (factor VIII and conventional factor IX concentrates) or 48 hours (half-life extended factor IX), should be provided in patients with moderate or severe hemophilia. Strong consensus was achieved that patients with mild hemophilia and residual factor activity greater than 10% with mild bleeding phenotype or patients on emicizumab usually do not need factor replacement before vaccination. Swelling, erythema, and hyperthermia after vaccination are not always signs of bleeding but should prompt consultation of a hemophilia care center. In case of injection-site hematoma, patients should receive replacement therapy until symptoms disappear. CONCLUSIONS: Consensus was achieved on recommendations for intramuscular COVID-19 vaccination after replacement therapy for hemophilia patients depending on disease severity.

[Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on Medical Care of Patients with Inherited Bleeding Disorders]. / Auswirkungen der COVID-19 Pandemie auf die medizinische Versorgung von Patienten mit angeborenen Blutungsneigungen.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Chronic diseases, such as inherited bleeding disorders (IBD) are often associated with high costs of medical care. COVID-19 containment measures, including isolation and triage, led to restrictions in the health care of chronically ill patients. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the health care of IBD patients. METHODS: In this multicentre cross-sectional study to evaluate the effects of COVID-19 on the mental health and quality of care of patients with inherited bleeding disorder, an ad hoc questionnaire was sent to 586 patients/parents of children with haemophilia A, B or von Willebrand syndrome type 3. In addition to demographic and clinical data, patients/parents of patients with inherited bleeding disorders were asked about their thoughts, concerns and experiences regarding their medical care during the COVID-19 pandemic. Differences between clinical subgroups were calculated. RESULTS: Significant differences were found between subgroups (severity, type of therapy, product class, comorbidities) with regard to the transmission of COVID-19 through plasma products, the effects of COVID-19 positive test results, fear of getting COVID-19, delayed drug supply and physiotherapy treatment. DISCUSSION: The medical care of patients with inherited bleeding disorders, who need a continuous supply of essential drugs, is a particular challenge in times of pandemics. Therefore, worries and fears of IBD patients should be taken seriously and innovative communication channels established to maintain therapy standards and quality of care.

Quality of electronic treatment records and adherence to prophylaxis in haemophilia and von Willebrand disease: Systematic assessments from an electronic diary.

INTRODUCTION: HaemoassistTM 2 is an electronic system designed for people with bleeding disorders and their physicians to record prophylactic infusions and treatment of bleeds. It aims to improve adherence by permitting reminders and accuracy of documentation by facilitating real-time reporting. AIM: To assess documentation quality and adherence to prophylactic regimens in patients with haemophilia A, haemophilia B or von Willebrand disease who are using HaemoassistTM 2. METHODS: Ten centres enrolled consecutive patients, who had been using HaemoassistTM 2 for ≥ 3 months (Cohort 1, 'quality of documentation'). Of these, patients who had a specified prophylactic regimen in HaemoassistTM 2 for ≥ 3 months were eligible for inclusion in Cohort 2 ('adherence to prophylaxis'). RESULTS: Cohort 1 comprised 796 patients (71% with severe haemophilia A; median 20.5 months of HaemoassistTM 2 use). The most common method of documentation for patients was using the mobile app; the median time between infusion and documentation was 4 hours using the app, compared with 85 hours using a web portal on a stationery device. The median total annualised number of infusions was consistent in the first and last 3 months of documentation (128; IQR: 70-184 and 120; IQR 64-176, respectively). Cohort 2 comprised 202 patients (79% severe haemophilia A; median of 13 months on prophylactic regimen in HaemoassistTM 2). The rate of adherence to prophylaxis was 83%; median deviation between planned and actual infusion time was ± 2 hours. CONCLUSION: HaemoassistTM 2 was used consistently over prolonged periods of time and allowed for precise analysis of adherence to prophylaxis.

Evaluation of the U.S. Adherence Questionnaires VERITAS-PRO and VERITAS-PRN for Use in Patients with Hemophilia in the German Healthcare System.

AIM: Since the U.S. adherence instruments VERITAS-PRO and VERITAS-PRN were developed in another healthcare system, we assumed that they are not appropriate for the German solidarity healthcare system. This study aims to evaluate the relevance of these instruments for the German healthcare system both by people with hemophilia (PWH) and by healthcare professionals (HCP). METHODS: A total of 50 PWH (23 adult hemophilia patients and 27 parents of children with hemophilia) and 25 HCP rated the relevance of the single items of the VERITAS-PRO and VERITAS-PRN on a 5-point Likert scale. In addition, both groups were asked to make suggestions for additional adherence questions. To investigate the relevance of these instruments, the accordance between the raters' evaluations was determined calculating the content validity index (CVI) and the content validity ratio (CVR) based on the critical values of the CVR (CVRcritical) to exclude chance and subjectivity. RESULTS: CVI (CVR) calculations revealed three (5) "very important" items for PWH and six (11) items for HCP. Only two (3) "very important" items were evaluated by both groups. Four domains were considered not important by both groups. Six PWH made 14 suggestions and 14 HCP made 24 suggestions for additional adherence questions. CONCLUSION: VERITAS-PRO and VERITAS-PRN have only very limited benefits for the German healthcare system. Since nonadherence has a great impact on the morbidity of PWH and on the costs for the healthcare system, there is a need for adherence instruments that are adapted to the specific needs of PWH in the German healthcare system.

Impact of COVID-19 pandemic on mental health of patients with inherited bleeding disorders in Germany.

BACKGROUND: The worldwide pandemic spread of SARS-CoV-2 can lead to either respiratory infection or containment-associated isolation with possible higher impact on chronic diseases such as inherited bleeding disorders (IBD). The aim of the study was to evaluate the impact of COVID-19 on patients and caregivers of IBD patients regarding their concerns and worries related to own health, access to treatment and availability of factor concentrates and their experiences related to medical care. METHODS: Multicentre, cross-sectional study evaluating the impact of COVID-19 on mental health of IBD patients. An ad hoc questionnaire was developed and sent to 586 patients/caregivers with haemophilia A, haemophilia B and VWD type III. The survey included information on demographic and clinical data, needs, concerns and experiences regarding medical care during COVID-19 pandemic. RESULTS: In total, 355 of the IBD-Group (200 patients, 155 caregivers) completed the survey (61.7% response rate). Most patients suffered from haemophilia A (73.8%) and were severely affected (64.7%). Eleven patients were in quarantine due to suspected COVID-19; none had symptoms. One quarter worried (very) strongly about getting the coronavirus, 71.3% asked themselves what will happen to them when they will get COVID-19, 40.1% felt unchanged, and 18.9% worried about delivery difficulties of their IBD treatment product. In 52.8%, medical appointments were postponed. Significant differences between caregivers and patients were found in most aspects. DISCUSSION: The IBD patients affected by a chronic disorder have particular thoughts and worries regarding COVID-19. Haemophilia specialists should be committed to address these concerns and guarantee treatment despite containment strategies.

Standardizing care to manage bleeding disorders in adolescents with heavy menses-A joint project from the ISTH pediatric/neonatal and women's health SSCs.

BACKGROUND: Bleeding disorders (BD) are under-recognized in adolescents with heavy menstrual bleeding (HMB). OBJECTIVES: The lack of clinical guidelines and variable symptomatic management of HMB created the imperative to standardize HMB care to identify and manage BD in adolescents. METHODS: We convened an international working group (WG), utilized the results of a literature review to define knowledge gaps in HMB care, and used the collective clinical experience of the WG to develop care considerations for adolescents with BD and HMB. We then solicited input on the appropriateness of HMB care considerations from expert stakeholders representing hematology, adolescent medicine, and obstetrics-gynecology. We conducted an expert panel online, using the ExpertLens platform. During a three-round online modified-Delphi process, the expert panel rated the appropriateness of 21 care considerations using a 9-point scale to designate care as appropriate (7-9), uncertain (4-6), or inappropriate (1-3) covering screening for BD, the laboratory work-up, and management of adolescents with BD that present with HMB. We used the RAND/UCLA appropriateness method to determine the existence of consensus among the interdisciplinary panel of experts. RESULTS: Thirty-nine experts participated in the panel. The experts rated fifteen HMB care considerations as appropriate, six as uncertain, and none as inappropriate. CONCLUSIONS: The HMB care statements represent the first set of HMB care considerations in adolescents with BD, developed with broad expert input on appropriateness. Although likely to be of interest to a range of clinicians who routinely manage adolescents with HMB, additional research is required in many key areas.

Practical Guidance of the GTH Haemophilia Board on the Use of Emicizumab in Patients with Haemophilia A.

Emicizumab has been approved for bleeding prophylaxis in patients with haemophilia A (PWHAs) with or without inhibitors. Because of substantial differences between factor VIII (FVIII) and Emicizumab, the 'Ständige Kommission Hämophilie' of the German, Austrian, Swiss Society for Thrombosis and Haemostasis Research (GTH) established a practical guidance for the use of Emicizumab in PWHAs. A systematic literature research was conducted in PubMed. Based on this and on personal experience, this practical guidance has been developed. Each single statement has been discussed among members of the 'Ständige Kommission Hämophilie' and revised accordingly. The final set of recommendations has been approved by all authors analogous to the Delphi method. This practical guidance is provided for physicians treating PWHAs with regard to general aspects, patient education, bleeding treatment, surgery, use of Emicizumab in previously untreated patients (PUPs), patients with newly diagnosed inhibitors and elderly patients. Patients should be treated in expert centres and adequate laboratory tests to monitor Emicizumab levels, FVIII replacement and inhibitors should be available. Early experience of immune tolerance induction protocols integrating Emicizumab is reviewed, and the limited experience in PUPs and very young children is described. So far, no thromboembolic complications have been reported with the concomitant use of FVIII or recombinant activated FVII for bleeding treatment or surgery. Activated prothrombin complex concentrate doses of >100 U/kg for >24 hours should be avoided whenever possible because of the high risk of thrombosis and/or thrombotic microangiopathy. In conclusion, this study is designed to support haemophilia physicians using Emicizumab in physicians treating hemophilia and using (PWHAs). With further post-marketing experience and trials, regular updates are necessary.

Long-Term Safety and Efficacy of Recombinant Coagulation Factor IX Albumin Fusion Protein (rIX-FP) in Previously Treated Pediatric Patients with Hemophilia B: Results from a Phase 3b Extension Study.

INTRODUCTION: A phase 3b extension study evaluated the long-term safety and efficacy of a recombinant fusion protein-linking coagulation factor IX (FIX) with albumin (rIX-FP) for the routine prophylaxis and on-demand treatment of bleeding in pediatric hemophilia B patients. METHODS: Previously treated patients aged <12 years with moderate to severe hemophilia B enrolled in a 3-year extension study following a phase 3 pivotal study in which they received weekly rIX-FP prophylaxis. In the extension study, they could maintain or extend their prophylaxis interval to every 10 or 14 days if they were well controlled on the 7-day regimen. RESULTS: Compared with their initial regimen, by the end of the study, dosing intervals were the same, extended, and shortened in 16, 4, and 4 patients, respectively. Very low annualized spontaneous bleeding rates (AsBRs) were observed; median AsBR was 0.0 for the 7- and 10-day regimens, and 1.1 for the 14-day regimen. The 7- and 14-day regimens were comparable in preventing spontaneous bleeds; mean (95% confidence interval) difference in AsBR of -1.2 (-2.6 to 0.3) bleeding episodes/year/subject. Overall, 96% of bleeding episodes were successfully treated with one or two injections of rIX-FP. Patients on a 14-day regimen maintained a mean steady-state trough FIX level of >7.2 IU/dL. No patient developed an inhibitor. CONCLUSION: This extension study demonstrated the long-term safety and efficacy of weekly rIX-FP in pediatric patients. Additionally, it showed that adequate bleed protection can be achieved with 10- or 14-day rIX-FP regimens in selected pediatric patients while maintaining safety.