Extended half-life recombinant factor VIII treatment of hemophilia A in Brazil: an expert consensus statement

Introduction Treatment of hemophilia A in Brazil is offered to all patients at no cost. However, several unmet medical needs exist. Method In this study, we applied the Delphi method to discuss with seven hemophilia A specialists the challenges that patients and the health system face regarding hemophilia A treatment and opportunities for improvement. Results A consensus was obtained regarding the number of weekly infusions and patient adherence to treatment. The bleeding profile, unfavourable pharmacokinetics (PKs), low adherence and high daily activity were patient profiles that would benefit from using the extended half-life (EHL) recombinant factor VIII (rFVIII). The advantages of treatment with the EHL rFVIII were the lower number of infusions per week, which could increase patient adherence and decrease the risk of bleeds, due to a more constant plasma level, a lower value. Additionally, the EHL rFVIII could improve quality of life, especially in patients with high daily activity, such as adolescents and young adults. The panelists mentioned that EHL rFVIII, if available, could be offered first to the priority group (adolescents between 12 and 19 years old), followed by adults (20 to 64 years old) and elderly people (over 65 years old). Conclusion In summary, the EHL rFVIII offers the optimal prophylaxis by decreasing the dose frequency, increasing the treatment adherence and improving the QoL, without compromising safety and efficacy.

Sobreexpresión del factor VIII, riesgo de trombosis y tratamiento / Overexpression of factor VIII: risk for thrombosis and treatment

Introducción: la trombosis venosa profunda (TVP) es una enfermedad multifactorial, la cual se ha relacionado con estados de hipercoagulabilidad, alteraciones del flujo sanguíneo y lesiones vasculares endoteliales. Se ha estimado una tasa de incidencia de 1 a 2 casos por mil habitantes año, y casi 2 millones de nuevos casos anuales en Estados Unidos. Existen factores de riesgo establecidos y las trombofilias parecen ocupar un lugar importante en su etiología y los estados de hipercoagulabilidad secundarios a niveles elevados de factor de coagulación VIII asociado a disfunción endotelial, y al incremento de adhesión plaquetaria confieren también una gran predisposición a la aparición de trombosis. Presentación del caso: paciente de 24 años de edad, sin antecedentes de importancia. Consulta por una masa indurada en región axilar derecha, que resultó ser TVP de la vena yugular externa, confluente yugulosubclavio, vena supraclavicular axilar y humeral con alto riesgo de embolización; a su vez se documentó tromboembolia pulmonar y se sospechó trombosis cerebral. La búsqueda de estados procoagulantes no arrojó ningún resultado, posteriormente se mide Factor VIII con sobreexpresión de 223% del valor normal y tras una revisión literaria del tratamiento documentada en el presente artículo se determina que el tratamiento más adecuado es warfarina

Introduction: Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a multifactorial medical condition that has been related to hypercoagulable states, alterations in blood flow and lesions in vessel endothelium. The incidence of DVT ranges between 1 and 2 cases per 1000 people and almost two million new cases per year in the United States. Some risk factors have been identified. Thrombophilias seem to play an important role in DVT etiology. Hypercoagulability states secondary to high blood coagulation factor VIII levels associated with endothelial dysfunction and increased platelet adhesion, pose a higher predisposition for thrombosis. Case report: we present the case of a 24-year-old male patient, with no relevant past history, who presented with an indurated mass in the right axillary region, which turned out to be a DVT of the external jugular vein, jugulo-subclavian confluence, supraclavicular, axillary and humeral veins with high risk of embolism. Pulmonary thromboembolism was documented and cerebral venous thrombosis was suspected. The search for procoagulant states yielded no results. Factor VIII levels were measured revealing an overexpression of factor VIII at 223% [normal range 50 ­ 200%]. A literature review determined warfarin to be the proper treatment

Inducción de tolerancia inmune en menores de 18 años con hemofilia A: experiencia en Uruguay, 2009-2020 / Induction of immune tolerance in children of under 18 years of age with hemophilia A: experience in uruguay, 2009-2020 / Indução de tolerância imune em crianças menores de 18 anos com hemofilia A: experiência no uruguai, 2009-2020

Introducción: el desarrollo de inhibidores contra el factor VIII (FVIII) es la complicación más seria del tratamiento en la hemofilia A. La inducción de tolerancia inmune (ITI) permite utilizar nuevamente el concentrado de FVIII para profilaxis o tratamiento. Objetivos: describir la experiencia con la ITI en menores de 18 años con hemofilia A severa (HAS) en un prestador integral de salud pública. Material y métodos: estudio descriptivo, retrospectivo, de menores de 18 años con HAS, concentraciones de inhibidores de FVIII ≥ a 5 UB, a quienes se les realizó ITI y seguimiento completo entre 2009 y 2020. Para la ITI se utilizó concentrado de FVIII derivado plasmático. El beneficio se expresa como la tasa de éxito definido por la negativización del inhibidor. Resultados: se incluyeron seis pacientes. Edad promedio al diagnóstico de inhibidor 2,96 años, luego de 24,4 días de exposición (DDE) a concentrados de FVIII. Media de inicio de ITI 3,76 niños y el tiempo de latencia del diagnóstico de inhibidor y el inicio de la ITI fue de 10,33 meses. El pico máximo del título pre-ITI fue en promedio de 114,7 UB. Cuatro pacientes iniciaron el régimen de ITI con títulos de inhibidor menor a 10 UB. El título del inhibidor se negativizó en 8,2 meses y el porcentaje de recuperación in vivo >65% se logró con una media de 15,7 meses. La ITI fue exitosa en 83% de los casos. Conclusiones: en niños con hemofilia A e inhibidores de alto título, la ITI tiene un elevado éxito, tal como ocurrió en esta serie. Dado que el tiempo de respuesta es variable, la ITI debe ser individualizada.

Introduction: the development of inhibitors against factor VIII is the most serious complication of treatment in hemophilia A. Immune tolerance induction (ITI) enables the factor VIII concentrate to be used again for prophylaxis or treatment. Objectives: describe the experience with ITI in children of under 18 years of age with severe hemophilia A (SAH) in a health care provider. Material and methods: descriptive, retrospective study of children under 18 years of age with SAH, concentrations of FVIII inhibitors ≥ 5BU, who underwent ITI and full follow-up between 2009-2020. For ITI, we used plasma derived FVIII concentrate. The benefit is expressed as the success rate defined by the inhibitor's negativization. Results: 6 patients were included. Mean age at diagnosis of inhibitor 2,96 years, after 24,4 days of exposure (DAE) to FVIII concentrates. Mean ITI onset was 3,76 years and latency time from inhibitor diagnosis and ITI onset was 10,33 months. Maximum peak of the pre ITI title was an average of 114,7 UB. Four patients started the ITI regimen with inhibitors titers less than 10 BU. The inhibitor titer negative in 8,2 months and in vivo recovery rate >65% was achieved with a mean of 15,7 months. The ITI was successful in 83% of the cases. Conclusions: ITI is highly successful in children with hemophilia A and high-titer inhibitors, as this case suggests. Since the response time is variable, the ITI must be individualized.

Introdução: o desenvolvimento de inibidores contra o fator VIII é a complicação mais grave do tratamento da hemofilia A. A indução de tolerância imunológica (ITI) permite que o concentrado de fator VIII seja novamente utilizado para profilaxia ou tratamento. Objetivos: descrever a experiência com ITI em crianças menores de 18 anos com hemofilia A grave (HAS) em um serviço de saúde pública abrangente. Material e métodos: estudo descritivo e retrospectivo de crianças menores de 18 anos com HAS, concentrações de inibidor do FVIII ≥ 5 BU), que realizaram ITI e acompanhamento completo entre 2009-2020. Concentrado de FVIII derivado de plasma foi utilizado para ITI. O benefício é expresso como a taxa de sucesso definida pela negativação do inibidor. Resultados: 6 pacientes foram incluídos. Idade média no diagnóstico do inibidor 2,96 anos, após 24,4 dias de exposição (DDE) a concentrados de FVIII. A média de início da ITI foi de 3,76 crianças e o tempo de latência do diagnóstico do inibidor e início da ITI foi de 10,33 meses. O pico máximo do título pré-ITI foi em média 114,7 BU. Quatro pacientes iniciaram o regime ITI com títulos de inibidor inferiores a 10 BU. O título do inibidor tornou-se negativo em 8,2 meses e a percentagem de recuperação in vivo >65% foi alcançada com uma média de 15,7 meses. O ITI foi bem-sucedido em 83% dos casos. Conclusões: em crianças com hemofilia A e inibidores de títulos elevados, a ITI é altamente bem sucedida, como ocorreu nesta série. Como o tempo de resposta é variável, o ITI deve ser individualizado.

Clinical profile of hemophilia children admitted in a tertiary care hospital in South India: a cross sectional study

Background: Hemophilia is a rare inherited genetic blood disorder that needs a high index of suspicion and appropriate laboratory facilities for diagnosis. Unfortunately, it has not received the same patronage as other bleeding disorders like thalassemia and sickle cell anemia. Its management is expensive and requires lifelong treatment.Methods: This is a hospital-based cross-sectional study done at a hemophilia treatment center in a tertiary hospital in South India to study the clinicoepidemiological profile and complications in hemophilia children admitted during the period of January 2022 to June 2023.Results: 40 children with hemophilia were included in the study, and all of them had Hemophilia A with the majority being of severe type (62.5%). The mean age of diagnosis was 10 months. Hemarthrosis was the presenting complaint in about 50 % of children at admission while the majority had bruises and ecchymosis as clinical presentation at the time of first diagnosis (40%). 5 children tested positive for inhibitors among those tested. Intracranial hemorrhage was the most common occurring complication (17.5%). Knee (60%), elbow (47.5%) and ankle (40%) were the most common target joints.Conclusions: There is a need for awareness of this disease among clinicians and people for appropriate diagnosis. The government should ensure the availability of factor replacement therapy and other treatment modalities even at District hospitals for easy accessibility of patients. Management goals should shift from on-demand therapy to prophylactic therapy for hemophilia children for better living standards and prevent complications like arthropathy in these patients.

Hemofilia adquirida tipo A

La hemofilia adquirida es un trastorno hemostático causado por la presencia de autoanticuerpos inhibidores contra el F VIII de la coagulación. Clínicamente se presenta como sangrado espontáneo, principalmente en piel y tejidos blandos, y a diferencia de la hemofilia congénita, la hemartrosis es rara. Se presenta el caso de un paciente de sexo masculino, de 60 años, previamente sano, que acude a consulta por cuadro de 8 días de evolución de aparición de hematomas a nivel de miembro superior e inferior. Durante su evolución presenta TTPA alargado y concentraciones bajas de F VIII.

Acquired hemophilia is a hemostatic disorder caused by the presence of inhibitory autoantibodies against coagulation F VIII. Clinically it presents as spontaneous bleeding, mainly in the skin and soft tissues, and unlike congenital hemophilia, hemarthrosis is rare. We present the case of a 60-year-old male patient, previously healthy, who came to the clinic due to an 8-day history of hematomas on the upper and lower limbs. During its evolution it presents prolonged APTT and low concentrations of F VIII.

Seroprevalence of hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and human immunodeficiency virus in hemophilia A patients: A descriptive study

Background: Hemophilia A (Factor VIII deficiency) is a X-linked coagulopathy that affects approximately 1/10,000 male live births. In the past, the treatment of hemophilia A consisted of cryoprecipitated plasma and purified factor preparations. As a result, they experienced unusually high incidence of hepatitis and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) seroconversion. Aims and Objectives: The aims of this study were to find out the seroprevalence of hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis C virus (HCV), and HIV infection, among hemophiliacs attending a tertiary care center in Kerala, southern India. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on hemophilia A patients who attended the departments of medicine and paediatrics. Demographic details and treatment history were obtained by questionnaire. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was used to detect HBV surface antigen, HCV antibodies, and HIV. The statistical data analysis was performed using SPSS software version. Results: Out of 90 hemophilia A patients who underwent testing for the seroprevalence of transfusion-transmitted viral infections, one (1.1%) patient tested positive for HIV, two (2.2%) for HCV, and one (1.1%) for HBV. Among patients with hemophilia A, the prevalence of transfusion-transmitted infection was 4.4%. Patients with HIV- and HCV-positive tests belonged to the severe hemophilia A group. Moreover, the HBV-positive patient belonged to moderate hemophilia A. Conclusion: The present paradigm of management of hemophilia A patients is with plasma-derived or recombinant Factor VIII concentrates, cryoprecipitates, and fresh frozen plasma. Due to the risk, however remote, of transfusion-transmitted viral infections, all hemophiliacs should receive the hepatitis B vaccine and undergo routine testing for HIV, HCV, and HBV viruses.

Clinical profile of Hemophilia A patients in a tertiary care hospital in Kerala, India: A cross-sectional study

Background: Deficiency of factor VIII (FVIII) (Hemophilia A) and factor IX (Hemophilia B) are the most frequent coagulation defects. The incidence of hemophilia A varies in different regions of India. Aims and Objectives: The present study was done to classify hemophilia A patients by estimating FVIII levels in them and to describe the clinical profile of the patients attending a tertiary care hospital in southern part of India, Kerala. Materials and Methods: A hospital-based cross-sectional study was done on patients with hemophilia A, attending Department of Medicine and Department of Pediatrics from March 2012 to September 2013. Demographic and clinical details were collected using per forma and quantitative assessment of FVIII levels were done using semi-automated blood coagulation analyzer. Results: Out of 90 cases studied, majority of the patients had severe hemophilia (85.6%), followed by mild (10%) and moderate hemophilia (4.4%). Positive family history was seen in 67.8% patients. Median age of the patients at diagnosis was 1 years of age. Most common clinical presentation was found to be hemarthrosis (84.4%) followed by bleeding into muscle (56.7%). Knee joint (75.6%) was the predominantly affected joint. Bony ankylosis (30%), intracranial bleed (14.4%), and retroperitoneal bleed (24.4%) were the most common complications noted. Bleeding manifestations such as gum bleed (24.4%), epistaxis (12.2%), hematuria (37.8%), and ecchymosis (15.6%) were also reported among them. Conclusion: Proportion of severe hemophilia among hemophilia A patients was found to be higher in number than in other parts of the country. Serious complications can result from bleeding into the joints, muscles, brain, or other internal organs. Therefore, promotion of low cost, regular availability of factor concentrates, prophylactic factor replacement, establishing comprehensive care center, and regular training of medical and paramedical staff will help in reducing the complications due to this disease.

Novel gene mutation causing type 3 Von Willebrand disease: a case report and review of literature

Von Willebrand disease (VWD) Type 3 is an uncommon bleeding disorder, resulting from the near absence of Von Willebrand factor (VWF) and extremely low factor-VIII levels. It is a close differential diagnosis of hemophilia. A wide heterogeneity of VWD mutations are reported in the literature. We report a 16-year-old girl with hemarthrosis, finally diagnosed with Type 3 VWD. Clinical exome sequencing confirmed the diagnosis, revealing a homozygous mutation c.4387G>T (p. Glu1463Ter) in exon 28 of the VWF gene, a unique mutation not yet reported in the literature.

Evaluación de profilaxis con factor VIII de origen plasmático en pacientes con hemofilia A severa / Evaluation of factor VIII prophylaxis of plasmatic origin in patients with severe hemophilia A / Avaliação da profilaxia do fator VIII de origem plasmática em pacientes com hemofilia A grave

Introducción: la hemofilia A severa (HAS) es una enfermedad hemorrágica hereditaria causada por un déficit de factor VIII (FVIII) menor al 1%. Se presenta principalmente con sangrados articulares, los cuales provocan una artropatía hemofílica que afecta su independencia funcional. El uso de la profilaxis terciaria con FVIII ofrece beneficios en adultos disminuyendo la tasa anual de sangrado (TAS) y mejorando la independencia funcional. Objetivo: determinar el porcentaje de pacientes que logran mantener un nivel de FVIII mayor al 1%, conocer si existe una mejora en la independencia funcional, así como una disminución en la TAS con el régimen profiláctico empleado. Métodos: estudio observacional, analítico. Se incluyó a los pacientes con HAS que se controlaron en el Hospital de Clínicas "Dr. Manuel Quintela" durante 2020 en profilaxis con FVIII durante 12 meses. Se obtuvieron tres muestras separadas en el tiempo para dosificación de FVIII y se evaluó la TAS y la independencia funcional en cada paciente. Resultados: se analizaron ocho pacientes, todos presentaron valores de FVIII superiores al 1% a la hora y 24 horas posterior a la administración de FVIII. Los episodios de sangrado se redujeron 4,76 veces con el uso de la profilaxis (p = 0,019). La independencia funcional mostró que 5/8 pacientes mejoraron al menos 1 punto del score. Conclusiones: la profilaxis terciaria en estos pacientes fue beneficioso en reducir la TAS y mejorar su capacidad funcional.

Summary: Introduction: severe hemophilia A (SAH) is an hereditary hemorrhagic disease, caused by a factor VIII (FVIII) deficiency of less than 1%. It presents with joint bleeding mainly, which causes a hemophilic arthropathy, which affects its functional independence. The use of tertiary prophylaxis with FVIII offers benefits in adults by decreasing the annual bleeding rate (ABR) and improving functional independence. Objective: to determine the percentage of patients who manage to maintain an FVIII level greater than 1%, to know if there is an improvement in functional independence, as well as a decrease in the ABR with the prophylactic regimen used. Methods: observational, analytical study. Patients with SAH who were controlled at the Hospital de Clínicas "Dr. Manuel Quintela", during the year 2020, in prophylaxis with FVIII for 12 months were included. Three samples separated in time for FVIII dosing were obtained and the ABR and functional independence were evaluated in each patient. Results: 8 patients were analyzed, all presented FVIII higher than 1% at one hour and 24 hours after the administration of FVIII. The bleeding episodes were reduced 4.76 times with the use of Prophylaxis (p = 0.019). Functional independence showed that 5/8 patients improved at least 1 point in the Score. Conclusions: tertiary prophylaxis in these patients was beneficial in reducing SAD and improving their functional capacity.

Introdução: a hemofilia A grave (HAS) é uma doença hemorrágica hereditária, causada pela deficiência do fator VIII (FVIII) inferior a 1%. Apresenta-se principalmente com sangramento articular, que causa artropatia hemofílica, que afeta sua independência funcional. O uso de profilaxia terciária com FVIII oferece benefícios em adultos, reduzindo a taxa de sangramento anual (TAS) e melhorando a independência funcional. Objetivos: determinar a porcentagem de pacientes que conseguem manter um nível de FVIII maior que 1%, identificar uma possível melhora da independência funcional, bem como uma diminuição da TAS com o esquema profilático utilizado. Métodos: estudo observacional, analítico de pacientes com HAS controlados no Hospital das Clínicas "Dr. Manuel Quintela", durante o ano de 2020, em profilaxia com FVIII durante 12 meses. Foram obtidas três amostras separadas no tempo para dosagem de FVIII e avaliação da TAS e da independência funcional de cada paciente. Resultados: foram analisados 8 pacientes, todos apresentaram FVIII maior que 1% em uma hora e 24 horas após a administração do FVIII. Os episódios de sangramento foram reduzidos 4,76 vezes com o uso da profilaxia (p = 0,019). A independência funcional mostrou que 5/8 pacientes melhoraram pelo menos 1 ponto do escore FISH. Conclusões: a profilaxia terciária nesses pacientes foi benéfica na redução da TAS e na melhora da capacidade funcional.

Hemofilia A adquirida: un diagnóstico de infarto / Acquired Hemophilia A: a heart attacking diagnosis

Resumen La hemofilia A adquirida es una entidad poco reportada y potencialmente fatal, que se asocia con la aparición de autoanticuerpos contra el factor VIII de la coagulación. Si bien puede estar subestimada, se calcula una incidencia aproximada de 1 a 1.5 casos por millón de habitantes con una mortalidad reportada entre el 9 y el 33%. Se manifiesta con equimosis extensas espontáneas y sangrado en mucosas, tracto gastrointestinal o en el periodo postparto. Se debe sospechar en adultos a partir de la cuarta década de la vida con sangrados espontáneos y un tiempo parcial de tromboplastina prolongado en ausencia de anticoagulante lúpico. Se reporta el caso de un adulto mayor con cardiopatía isquémica, en quien, en el contexto de un evento coronario agudo, se diagnosticó hemofilia A adquirida ante la presencia de sangrado subcutáneo extenso en cuello, con compresión de faringe y laringe que amenazó su vida representando un verdadero reto terapéutico.

Abstract Acquired hemophilia A is an underreported and potentially fatal entity that is associated with the formation of autoantibodies against coagulation factor VIII. Although it may be underestimated, the estimated incidence is between 1-1.5 cases per million people with a reported mortality between 9 and 33%2. It presents with extensive spontaneous ecchymosis, mucosal, gastrointestinal, or postpartum bleeding. It should be suspected in adults from the fourth decade of life with spontaneous bleeding and prolonged TPT in the absence of lupus anticoagulant. We report the case of an older adult with ischemic heart disease in the context of an acute coronary syndrome, who was diagnosed with acquired hemophilia A and presented with significant cervical subcutaneous bleeding with pharyngeal and laryngeal compression that threatened his life, constituting a real therapeutic challenge.

A CASE REPORT ON ANTENATAL MOTHER – THE HEMOPHILIA CARRIER

BACKGROUND Hemophilia is a rare bleeding disorder which is due to the de?ciency of a coagulation protein- the most important factor VIII.The incidence of Hemophilia- A is 1 in 5000 male births. This is a case report on an antenatal mother, who is a known case of Hemophilia-A, carrier admitted for safe confinement. CASE PRESENTATION : We report a case of 37-year-old G4P2L1A1 at 38 weeks and 4 days period of gestation, a Hemophilia- A carrier was admitted for safe confinement.She had family history of Hemophilia-A. All her three off-springs had Hemophilia-A. The patient was taken up for an Elective Caesarian section and she delivered an aliveterm boy baby. The baby was advised by the Paediatric Hematologist to review at the age of 6 months for factor VIII assay. In CONCLUSION: some parts of developing countries like India reducing the mortality rate of Hemophilia is still a hindrance due to the scarce availability of healthcare facilities and poor follow-up. When we diagnose Hemophilia, we should include the family history, active carrier status, clinical manifestations as well as laboratory testing. There should be equal coordination between the Obstetrician, Hematologist, Immunologist, Genetics department, and Psychologist.

Perfil epidemiológico de pacientes com Hemofilia A e doenças associadas ao uso do fator VIII/recombinante / Epidemiological profile of patients with Hemophilia A and diseases associated with the use of factor VIII/recombinant

Introdução: o Brasil é o quarto país em casos de Hemofilia A. O tratamento é infundir o fator de coagulação ausente. Reações ao uso do fator podem incluir manifestações alérgicas, doenças virais transfusionais e aloanticorpos. Objetivo: analisar o perfil epidemiológico de pacientes com Hemofilia A, e as doenças associadas ao uso do fator VIII e fator VIII recombinante. Metodologia: estudo transversal descritivo e retrospectivo. A coleta de dados foi realizada nos prontuários de pacientes com diagnóstico de hemofilia A, preenchidos com mais de 70% das informações, na Fundação Hospitalar de Hematologia e Hemoterapia do Amazonas, Brasil. Resultados: o Ministério da Saúde identificou no Estado do Amazonas, o registro de 276 indivíduos com diagnóstico de Hemofilia A. Incluídos para análise neste estudo 164 prontuários. Características sociodemográficas: homens 99,4%, adolescentes (28%) e jovens (26,8%); de cor parda 67,1%, ensino fundamental incompleto 28,6% e, exercendo a ocupação de estudante 42,7%. Condição clínica: 36,6% classificados com hemofilia A grave. Todos os pacientes tiveram diagnóstico clínico e laboratorial. O parentesco mais comum é o de irmãos com 35,3%. Sintomas predominantes: hemartrose 45,4%; dor 31,9%; edema 24% e artropatia 8,5%. O fator VIII recombinante, administrado em 34,8% dos pacientes, enquanto o fator VIII plasmático em 28,0%. Administrados doses de 2000UI a 2999UI. As complicações: artralgia 77,4% e hemorragia 77,4%. Conclusão: cuidados qualificados dos profissionais de saúde auxiliam na prevenção de complicações sérias, resultando em qualidade de vida ao hemofílico.

Introduction: Brazil is the fourth country in cases of Hemophilia A. The treatment is to infuse the missing clotting factor. Reactions to the use of the factor can include, allergic manifestations, transfusion viral diseases and alloantibodies. Objective: analyze the epidemiological profile of patients with Hemophilia A, and the diseases associated with the use of factor VIII and recombinant factor VIII. Methodology: descriptive and retrospective cross-sectional study. Data collection was carried out in the medical records of patients diagnosed with hemophilia A, filled with more than 70% of the information, at the Fundação Hospitalar de Hematologia e Hemoterapia do Amazonas, Brazil. Results: in the Ministry of Health of Brazil, it was identified, for the State from Amazonas, the registry of 276 individuals diagnosed with Hemophilia A. Included in the analysis for this study, 164 medical records. Sociodemographic characteristics: male, 99.4%, adolescents (28%) and young people (26.8%), brown skin color, 67.1%, incomplete elementary school, 28.6%, and working as a student, 42.7%. Clinical condition: 36.6% classified with severe hemophilia A. All patients had a clinical and laboratory diagnosis. The most common kinship is that of brothers, 35.3%. Predominant symptoms: hemarthrosis 45.4%, pain 31.9%, edema 24% and arthropathy 8.5%. Recombinant factor VIII, administered in 34.8% of patients, while plasma factor VIII in 28.0%. Doses of 2000 IU to 2999 IU were administered. Complications: arthralgia 77.4% and hemorrhage 77.4%. Conclusion: qualified care by health professionals helps to prevent serious complications, resulting in quality of life for the hemophiliac.

Estudio de la relación entre el grupo sanguíneo eritrocitario ABO con los niveles del factor von Willebrand en pacientes diagnosticados con la enfermedad / Study of the relationship between the ABO erythrocyte blood group with the von Willebrand factor levels in patients diagnosed with the disease

Resumen La presencia o ausencia de los antígenos del sistema ABO entre otros factores se han relacionado con los niveles plasmáticos del factor von Willebrand (VWF) debido a su influencia en la proteólisis por la ADAMTS 13; la actividad de este sistema eritrocitario puede incidir en eventos trombóticos o hemorrágicos. El propósito de este estudio fue determinar si los pacientes diagnosticados con la enfermedad de von Willebrand pertenecían al grupo sanguíneo O y si los niveles de VWF y FVIII eran más bajos que los de los grupos no-O. El grupo sanguíneo fue identificado por un método directo en tubo y el VWF y FVIII se midieron mediante ensayos de coagulación. Se analizó un total de 64 pacientes, el 29,4% eran mayores de 40 años, el 100% presentaron valores más bajos del VWF que los grupos no-O, el 64% de los pacientes presentaron una concentración del FVIII de 6-49% inferior al rango normal establecido y el 78,51% fueron tipificados como del grupo sanguíneo O. El análisis estadístico demostró una relación estadísticamente significativa entre los niveles de VWF y el grupo sanguíneo. Se determinó que existe una relación entre el sistema ABO y el VWF-FVIII (p<0,05); sin embargo, esto no significa que sea la única causa de la existencia de un nivel bajo del factor. Estos datos indican la necesidad de mayores estudios en la población de pacientes con la enfermedad y la necesidad de determinar los tipos de von Willebrand y su relación con el grupo sanguíneo.

Abstract The presence or absence of antigens of the ABO system, among other factors, have been related to plasma levels of von Willebrand factor (VWF) due to its influence on proteolysis by ADAMTS 13. The activity of this erythrocyte system may influence on thrombotic or hemorrhagic events. The purpose of this study was to determine if the patients diagnosed with von Willebrand disease belonged to the O blood group and the VWF and FVIII levels were lower than those of the other blood groups. The blood group was identified by direct tube method and the VWF and FVIII were measured by coagulation tests. A total of 64 patients were analised, 29.4% were older than 40, 100% presented lower values of VWF than the non-O groups. A total of 64% of the patients presented a lower concentration of 6-49% in FVIII at the established normal range and 78.51% were typified as blood group O. Statistical analysis showed a statistically significant relationship between VWF levels and blood group. It was determined that there is a relationship between the ABO system and the VWF-FVIII (p<0.05). However, this does not mean that is the only cause of the existence of a low level of these factors. These data indicate the need for further studies in the population of patients with von Willebrand disease in order to determine the von Willebrand types and their relationship with the blood group.

Resumo A presença ou ausência dos antígenos do sistema ABO, entre outros fatores, tem sido relacionada aos níveis plasmáticos do fator de von Willebrand (VWF) devido à sua influência na proteólise pelo ADAMTS 13; a atividade desse sistema eritrocitário pode afetar eventos trombóticos ou hemorrágicos. O objetivo deste estudo foi determinar se os pacientes com diagnóstico de doença de von Willebrand pertenciam ao grupo sanguíneo O e se os níveis de VWF e FVIII eram inferiores aos dos grupos não-0. O grupo sanguíneo foi identificado por um método direto em tubo e o VWF e o FVIII foram medidos por testes de coagulação. Foram analisados 64 pacientes, 29,4% tinham idade superior a 40 anos, 100% apresentaram valores mais baixos do VWF que os grupos não-O e 64% dos pacientes apresentaram concentração de FVIII 6-49% menor à faixa normal estabelecida, e 78,51% foram tipificados como do grupo sanguíneo O. A análise estatística mostrou uma relação estatisticamente significativa entre os níveis de VWF e o grupo sanguíneo. Foi determinado que existe uma relação entre o sistema ABO e o VWF-FVIII (p<0,05), no entanto, isso não significa que seja a única causa da existência de um baixo nível do fator. Esses dados indicam a necessidade de novos estudos na população de pacientes com a doença e a necessidade de determinar os tipos de von Willebrand e sua relação com o grupo sanguíneo.

Hemofilia adquirida como manifestación inicial de recidiva de adenocarcinoma colorrectal / Acquired hemophilia as the initial manifestation of colorectal cancer's recurrence

Resumen Presentamos el caso de un varón de 86 años con un hematoma espontáneo en el músculo ilíaco izquierdo y diagnóstico previo de cáncer de colon en 1998 (estadio pT3N0M0), tratado quirúrgicamente mediante colectomía transversal, considerado en remisión completa. Tras realización de estudios complementarios se demostró la presencia de autoanticuerpos inhibidores del Factor VIII que confirmaron el diagnóstico de hemofilia adquirida. Durante el ingreso el paciente presentó un sangrado digestivo bajo que conllevó al descubrimiento de recidiva del adenocarcinoma colorrectal tratado previamente. Respondió de forma favorable a la terapia inicial con corticoides sistémicos y el complejo coagulante anti inhibidor que incluye el Factor VII activado [FEIBA].

Abstract We report the case of an 86-year-old man presenting with a spontaneous hematoma in the left iliac muscle and previous diagnosis of colon cancer in 1998 (stage pT3N0M0) treated with transverse colectomy and considered in complete remission. After a complete study, it was possible to identify the presence of Factor VIII inhibitors antibodies that confirmed the presence of acquired hemophilia. During hospitalization the patient presented a lower gastrointestinal bleeding leading to the diagnosis of recurrence of a previously treated colorectal adenocarcinoma. He responded to initial therapy with systemic corticoids and anti-inhibitory coagulant complex which includes activated VII Factor [FEIBA].

Hemofilia A: una enfermedad huérfana / Hemophilia A: a rare disease

La hemofilia A es una enfermedad hereditaria ligada al cromosoma X, causada por mutaciones en el gen F8 del factor VIII de la coagulación. Se considera una enfermedad huérfana, ya que su prevalencia es baja, de 26,6 por cada 100.000 nacidos vivos de sexo masculino. Los pacientes con hemofilia A tienen fases de inicio y amplificación de la coagulación relativamente normales y son capaces de formar el tapón plaquetario inicial en el lugar de la hemorragia, pero debido a la deficiencia del factor VIII, son incapaces de generar una cantidad de trombina en la superficie de las plaquetas, que sea suficiente para estabilizar el coágulo de fibrina. En un paciente masculino con hemorragias inusuales debe descartarse un trastorno de coagulación tipo hemofilia A, y se debe solicitar un recuento de plaquetas y un tiempo de protrombina (TP), los cuales usualmente son normales, y un tiempo de tromboplastina parcial activado (TPT) que se presenta prolongado. Para el diagnóstico diferencial con otras coagulopatías se realiza la medición de factores de coagulación, y pruebas de corrección cuando existe la sospecha de un inhibidor o de una hemofilia adquirida. Los pacientes afectados pueden presentar formas leves, moderadas o severas de la enfermedad, según el nivel plasmático del factor. En Colombia y en el mundo, la hemofilia fue reconocida como una enfermedad huérfana que representa un problema de salud pública, debido a su proceso de atención altamente especializado, que incrementa los costos asociados con la asistencia sanitaria, y afecta la calidad de vida de los pacientes y de aquellos que los rodean, además de que representa un reto diagnóstico que requiere constante actualización, para que pueda ser tratada de manera efectiva

Hemophilia A is an X-linked inherited disease caused by mutations in the coagulation factor VIII F8 gene. It is considered a rare disease, as its prevalence is 26.6 per 100,000 live male births. Patients with hemophilia A have a relatively normal coagulation onset and amplification phases, and are able to form the initial platelet plug at the site of hemorrhage; but due to factor VIII deficiency, they are unable to generate a sufficient amount of thrombin on the platelet surface to stabilize the fibrin clot. In a male patient with unusual bleeding, a hemophilia A-type coagulation disorder should be ruled out, and blood tests such as a platelet count and prothrombin time (PT), which are usually normal, and an activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT), which is prolonged, should be requested immediately. For differential diagnosis with other coagulopathies, measurement of coagulation factors and correction tests are performed when there is suspicion of an inhibitor or acquired hemophilia. Affected patients may present mild, moderate or severe forms of the disease, depending on the plasma level of the factor. In Colombia and worldwide, hemophilia was recognized as a rare disease that represents a public health problem due to its highly specialized care, which increases the costs associated with health care, and affects the quality of life of patients and those around them, as well as representing a diagnostic challenge that requires constant updating, so that it can be treated effectively

Efectividad de inducción de tolerancia inmune en niños con hemofilia A y aloanticuerpos neutralizantes / Immunotolerance induction effectivity in hemophilia A children and neutralizing alloantibodies

Resumen: Introducción: El desarrollo de aloanticuerpos neutralizantes anti-factor VIII en hemofilia A es la complicación más seria relacionada al tratamiento. La inducción de tolerancia inmune (ITI) o inmunotolerancia es el único tratamiento que erradica inhibidores, permitiendo utilizar nuevamente factor VIII para el tratamiento o profilaxis de eventos hemorrágicos. Objetivo: reportar la experiencia en niños sometidos a inmunotolerancia en la red pública del país. Pacientes y Método: Análisis retrospectivo y descriptivo de 13 niños con Hemofilia A severa e inhibidores persistentes de alto título, que recibieron ITI y seguimiento completo. Se utilizó concentrado de FVIII plasmático en dosis de 70-180 UI/Kg/diarias, definiendo éxito como la negativización del inhibidor y recu peración de la vida media del FVIII. Resultados expresados en media (rango). Resultados: En 13 pacientes se identificó el inhibidor, a una edad de 17,6 meses (2-48), tras 35,2 días (9-112) de exposición a FVIII. Once pacientes (84,6%) recuperaron la vida media del FVIII, tras 49,6 meses (26-70) de tratamiento. En los pacientes que respondieron, el título del inhibidor se negativizó en 7,3 meses (1-20). Conclusiones: En niños con hemofilia A e inhibidores persistentes de alto título, la ITI tiene un elevado éxito. Dado que el tiempo de respuesta es variable, la inmunotolerancia debe ser personalizada.

Abstract: Introduction: The development of anti-factor VIII neutralizing antibodies in hemophilia A is the most severe com plication related to treatment. Immune tolerance induction (ITI) is the only known treatment for eradicating inhibitors. A successful ITI allows using factor VIII (FVIII) again for the treatment or prophylaxis of hemorrhagic events. Objective: To report the experience of pediatric patients who underwent ITI in the country's public health care network. Patients and Method: Retrospective and descriptive analysis of 13 pediatric patients with severe Hemophilia A and high-titer inhibitors persis tence who underwent ITI and complete follow-up. Plasma-derived FVIII concentrate was used at 70 180 IU/kg/day doses. The success of the treatment is defined by achieving a negative titer and a half life recovery of the FVIII. The results were expressed in median (range). Results: In 13 patients, the inhibitor was identified at an average age of 17.6 months, after 35.2 days of exposure to the FVIII. 11 patients (84.6%) recovered the half-life of FVIII after 49.6 months of treatment. In the patients who responded to treatment, the inhibitor titer was negative at 6 months on average. Conclusions: ITI is the treatment of choice for patients with hemophilia A and inhibitors persistence. ITI must be perso nalized since the time response is variable in each patient.

Evaluation of factor VIII value in normal women and whom encountered recurrent pregnancy loss: is there any significant difference?

Background: Recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) is a serious problem on the women, it defined as two or more consecutive pregnancy losses before the fetus has reached birth. The aim of this study is to evaluate the association between the elevation in the factor VIII and RPL. Because women who have thrombophilia have increased risk of fetal loss in most studies.Methods: A total 72 women were recruited in this case control study. They divided into two groups: the RPL group included 41 women with a history of recurrent pregnancy loss and the control group included 31 healthy women, who had at least one successful pregnancy and none of them had a history of fetal loss or complicated pregnancy.Results: A majority of the patients of this study didn't have a high level of factor VIII, 9 of 41 (22%) patients of RPL group in comparison with 21 of 32 (65,6%) of control group, that suffer from the increase rate of FVIII, this means that factor VIII doesn't effect on RPL.Conclusions: The present study showed that the serum elevation in the factor VIII is not significantly associated with RPL.

Screening and quantitative estimation of factor VIII inhibitors by Nijmegen-Bethesda assay in hemophilia a patient of Southern Odisha, India

Background: The current treatment of haemophilia is replacement of factor VIII or IX which is effective till development of inhibitor against factors. There has been no study on factor VIII inhibitors in Southern Odisha using Nijmegen朆ethesda assay. This study was planned with objectives to screen factor VIII inhibitors in hemophilia-A patients, to do quantitative estimation of it using Nijmegen-Bethesda assay and to explore factors associated with development of inhibitors. Methods: This cross-sectional study was carried out from September 2016 to August 2018 in Department of pathology, MKCG medical college, Berhampur. Haemophilia-A patients coming to MKCG medical college and registered Haemophilia-A cases under Haemophilia society of Berhampur were included. Patients denying consent and having multiple clotting factors deficiencies were excluded. 1.8ml blood was collected. Mixing study was done to screen factor VIII inhibitors and then in positive cases inhibitors level measured by Nijmegen-Bethesda method. All data were analysed using SPSS (version 16.0).Results: 70 cases of Hemophilia-A patients were studied. Majority (50%) were with severe hemophilia-A. 7 patients developed inhibitors where 3 were high and 4 were low responders. Inhibitor level ranged from 0.8 to 64 Nijmegen-Bethesda units. Patients with severe hemophilia A, more than 10 transfusions and who switched to receive recombinant FVIII from other blood products developed inhibitors which were significant.Conclusions: Severity of hemophilia, increase frequency of transfusion and switching of blood products significantly increases chances of inhibitor development and hence intensive inhibitor screening is needed in these cases. Quantification of inhibitor is needed to monitor treatment and to manage bleeding episodes effectively.

Hemofilia adquirida / Acquired hemophilia

Resumen La hemofilia adquirida (HA) es un trastorno hemostático autoinmune ocasionado por autoanticuerpos dirigidos contra el factor VIII: C. En 52 % de los casos, la causa se desconoce o no se asocia con otra entidad patológica; en el resto, existen factores concomitantes: lupus, artritis reumatoide, cáncer, embarazo y medicamentos. En México no existe registro ni conciencia de la enfermedad entre el personal de salud. Los grupos de mayor incidencia son las mujeres en edad reproductiva y los individuos mayores de 70 años. Se caracteriza por hemorragia grave, sobre todo posterior a traumatismos y parto o cesárea, y equimosis grandes en tronco y extremidades. La sospecha es simple, basta que concurran hemorragia súbita, grave y un TTPa prolongado que no se corrige con plasma. El tratamiento consiste en lograr la hemostasia y erradicar el anticuerpo; lo primero se logra con el factor VII activado recombinante o concentrado del complejo de protrombínico activado. La ciclofosfamida, prednisona o rituximab sirven para erradicar el anticuerpo. La mayoría de los casos no son diagnosticados y la mortalidad es alta. Ya que los médicos desconocen el problema, no se sospecha, no se diagnostica y no se trata. Este documento revisa los datos más recientes de la HA y abunda en el diagnóstico y tratamiento.

Abstract Acquired hemophilia (AH) is an autoimmune hemostatic disorder mediated by autoantibodies directed against factor VIII: C. In 52% of cases, the cause is unknown or is not associated with other pathological entities; in the rest, there are concomitant factors: lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, cancer, pregnancy, and medications. In Mexico, there is not a registry of AH, and awareness of the disease among health personnel is low. The groups with the highest incidence are women of childbearing age and individuals older than 70 years. It is characterized by severe bleeding, especially after trauma and normal childbirth or cesarean delivery, and large ecchymoses in the trunk and extremities. The suspicion is simple, it just takes for sudden, severe hemorrhage and a prolonged activated partial thromboplastin time that is not corrected with plasma to concur in an individual. Treatment involves achieving hemostasis and eradicating the antibody. The former is achieved with recombinant activated factor VII or activated prothrombin complex concentrate. Cyclophosphamide, prednisone or rituximab are used to eradicate the antibody. Most cases of AH are not diagnosed, which translates into a high mortality rate. Given that awareness about the disease among physicians is low, it is not suspected, neither diagnosed, and nor is it treated. This document reviews the most recent data on AH and expands on its diagnosis and treatment.

Elimination of a disulfide bond in the light chain of coagulation factor VIII improves secretion of a BDD-FVIII variant with an engineered inter-chain disulfide / 药学学报

The coagulation VIII factor (FVIII) contains eight pairs of disulfide bonds, which are involved in maintaining its structure and function. It has been demonstrated that the disulfide bond between Cys1899/Cys1903 of the A3 domain in the light chain impedes secretion. In our previous work, an engineered inter-chain disulfide in the B domain-deleted FVIII (BDD-FVIII) promoted heterodimer assembly and secretion of separately expressed heavy and light chains. In this study, we constructed two BDD-FVIII variants, one of which contains an engineered inter-chain disulfide bond (F8C) between Met662 > Cys and Asp1828 > Cys mutations and another contains an endogenous A3 domain with a disrupted disulfide bond from F8C (F8CG) by replacement of Cys1899 and Cys1903 with Gly in F8C. We explored their function and secretion. By transducing F8C and F8CG into HEK293 and COS-7 cells, the formation of disulfide bonds and the secretion and coagulation activity of the two variants in the culture media and their binding affinity for von Willebrand factor (vWF) could be observed. The results show that variants F8C and F8CG are mainly the disulfide bonded heavy and light chain dimer, while the wild type BDD-FVIII (F8) is dominated by the easily dissociated heavy and light chain dimer. The secretion and activity of F8C was significantly higher than that of F8, while the secretion and activity of F8CG was significantly higher than that of F8C. The vWF binding of the two variants is similar to F8. This indicates that the BDD-FVIII variant F8CG may be attractive molecule for protein replacement and as a transgene in gene-therapy strategies. These findings are encouraging for future studies targeting disulfide bond elimination for further enhancement of FVIII secretion.