Disseminated intravascular coagulation in acute leukemia

The ISTH DIC-score predicts early mortality in patients with non-promyelocitic acute myeloid leukemia

Coagulation disorders frequently complicate the clinical course of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) patients. This study examined the frequency and prognostic significance, with regards of early mortality, of the presence of overt disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) at AML diagnosis and its correlation with clinical and biological characteristics. A retrospective analysis of 351 newly diagnosed non-promyelocytic AML patients was conducted, utilizing the 2018 ISTH DIC-Score criteria to evaluate the presence of overt DIC at AML onset. The study cohort had a median age of 65 years with a predominance of male gender (59 %). Overt DIC was present in 21 % of cases and was associated with advanced age, comorbidities, poor performance status, hyperleukocytosis, LDH levels, NPM1 mutations, expression of CD33 and CD4, and lack of expression of CD34. With a median follow-up of 72 months (3-147 months), the 6-year overall survival (OS) was 17.4 %, with patients having overt DIC showing significantly poorer outcomes (7.2 % compared to 20.3 % of those without DIC, p < 0.001). Patients with overt DIC showed markedly high early mortality rates at 30 (42.5 % vs 8 %), 60 (49.3 % vs 16.9 %), and 120 days (64.4 % vs 25.6 %) from disease onset. In multivariate analysis overt DIC retained its independent prognostic value for early mortality. In conclusion, the prevalence and clinical relevance of DIC in non-promyelocytic AML is not negligible, underlining its potential as an unfavorable prognostic marker. In newly diagnosed patients with AML, early recognition and measure to counteract coagulation disturbances might help mitigate the elevated mortality risk associated with DIC.

Influence of cytokines on early death and coagulopathy in newly diagnosed patients with acute promyelocytic leukemia

Introduction

Acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL) is a subtype of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) with a better prognosis. But early death (ED) rate remains high. APL patients are simultaneously accompanied by coagulopathy and hyperinflammation at the onset. It is not known what effects cytokines have on ED and coagulopathy in these patients. Therefore, the purposes of this study are to explore the clinical differences between APL and other types of AML, the link between cytokines and coagulopathy in newly diagnosed APL, and their roles in the ED for APL.

Methods

This study retrospectively collected the information of 496 adult patients with AML (age ≥14 years at admission) newly diagnosed in the First People's Hospital of Yunnan Province between January 2017 to February 2022, including 115 APL patients. The difference of clinical manifestations between two groups [APL and AML (non-APL)] was statistically analyzed. Then, the factors affecting ED in APL patients were screened, and the possible pathways of their influence on ED were further analyzed.

Results

The results indicate APL at the onset have a younger age and higher incidence of ED and DIC than other types of AML. Intracranial hemorrhage (ICH), age, and PLT count are found to be independent factors for ED in newly APL, among which ICH is the main cause of ED, accounting for 61.54% (8/13). The levels of cytokines in newly APL are generally higher than that in AML (non-APL), and those in the group of ED for APL were widely more than the control group. IL-17A and TNF-β are directly related to the ED in newly APL, especially IL-17A, which also affects ICH in these patients. Moreover, the increase of IL-17A and TNF-β cause the prolongation of PT in APL patients, which reflected the exogenous coagulation pathway. However, they have no effect on APTT prolongation and FIB reduction. Thus, it is speculated that IL-17A leads to early cerebral hemorrhage death in newly APL by inducing tissue factor (TF) overexpression to initiate exogenous coagulation and further leading to excessive depletion of clotting factors and prolongation of PT.

Conclusions

In conclusion, compared with other types of AML, APL patients have a younger age of onset and high inflammatory state, and are more likely to develop into DIC and die early. Age, and PLT count at diagnosis are independent factors for ED of APL, especially ICH. IL-17A is confirmed to be an independent risk factor for ED and ICH of newly APL. Hence, IL-17A may serve as a predictor of ED in newly diagnosed APL patients, and controlling its expression probably reduce ED in these patients.

Prevalence and risk factors of disseminated intravascular coagulation in childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia

BACKGROUND

Few studies have examined disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) in childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). Our aims were to evaluate the prevalence, risk factors and outcomes of DIC at ALL presentation and during induction chemotherapy.

METHODS

The medical records of ALL patients aged <15 years were retrospectively reviewed. Logistic regression analysis was used to identify risk factors. The Kaplan-Meier method was used to depict survival.

RESULTS

Of the 312 patients, 48 (15.4%) and 76 (24.4%) had DIC at presentation and during induction chemotherapy, respectively. Risk factors for DIC at presentation (OR and 95% CI) were antibiotics prior to admission 2.34 (1.17-4.89), white blood cell count ≥100 × 10⁹/L 2.39 (1.04-5.72), platelets <100 × 10⁹/L 5.44 (1.84-23.4) and high National Cancer Institute (NCI) risk 2.68 (1.08-6.62). Risk factors for DIC during induction chemotherapy were antibiotics prior to admission 1.86 (1.07-3.27), high peripheral blasts 1.01 (1.00-1.02) and transaminitis 2.02 (1.18-3.48). Five-year overall survival of patients who had DIC was significantly lower than those who did not (45.0% vs. 74.1%, p <0.001).

CONCLUSION

Antibiotics prior to admission, hyperleukocytosis, thrombocytopenia and high NCI risk were risk factors of DIC at presentation. Antibiotics prior to admission, high peripheral blasts and transaminitis were risk factors of DIC during induction chemotherapy.

IMPACT

There are only two studies, both published before 2000, evaluating risk factors of DIC in pediatric ALL patients without reporting outcomes. DIC was associated with lower remission and survival rates in pediatric ALL patients. We identified the risk factors of DIC at presentation as antibiotics prior to admission, hyperleukocytosis, thrombocytopenia and high NCI risk. The risk factors of DIC during induction chemotherapy were antibiotics prior to admission, high peripheral blasts and aspartate transaminitis. Pediatric ALL patients who have the aforementioned risk factors should be closely monitored for DIC secondary to infection, and early treatment with appropriate antimicrobial agents is recommended.

Rare Presentation of FLT3-ITD-Positive Acute Myeloid Leukemia With Monocytic Differentiation: A Case Report

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a hematological malignancy that affects adults and has various presenting symptoms, the most common being shortness of breath, bleeding, and infection. Thrombosis is also believed to be a rare presenting symptom of AML; however, information about the association between AML and thrombosis is scarce. Here, we report the case of a 27-year-old female who presented with extensive coagulation disturbances leading to various thromboembolic complications (including multiple strokes and renal and splenic infarcts) and was eventually diagnosed with AML. Owing to the patient's functional status at diagnosis, chemotherapy induction was withheld, and close observation along with supportive treatment was initiated. The findings, in this case, provide useful information on the presentation of such unusual cases, so we aim to enrich and contribute to medical evolution.

Prediction of life-threatening and disabling bleeding in patients with AML receiving intensive induction chemotherapy

Bleeding in patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) receiving intensive induction chemotherapy is multifactorial and contributes to early death. We sought to define the incidence and risk factors of grade 4 bleeding to support strategies for risk mitigation. Bleeding events were retrospectively assessed between day-14 and day +60 of induction treatment according to the World Health Organization (WHO) bleeding assessment scale, which includes grade 4 bleeding as fatal, life-threatening, retinal with visual impairment, or involving the central nervous system. Predictors were considered pretreatment or prior to grade 4 bleeding. Using multivariable competing-risk regression analysis with grade 4 bleeding as the primary outcome, we identified risk factors in the development cohort (n = 341), which were tested in an independent cohort (n = 143). Grade 4 bleeding occurred in 5.9% and 9.8% of patients in the development and validation cohort, respectively. Risk factors that were independently associated with grade 4 bleeding included baseline platelet count ≤40 × 109/L compared with >40 × 109/L, and baseline international normalized ratio of prothrombin time (PT-INR) >1.5 or 1.3 > 1.5 compared with ≤1.3. These variables were allocated points, which allowed for stratification of patients with low- and high-risk for grade 4 bleeding. Cumulative incidence of grade 4 bleeding at day+60 was significantly higher among patients with high- vs low-risk (development: 31 ± 7% vs 2 ± 1%; P < .001; validation: 25 ± 9% vs 7 ± 2%; P = .008). In both cohorts, high bleeding risk was associated with disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) and proliferative disease. We developed and validated a simple risk model for grade 4 bleeding, which enables the development of rational risk mitigation strategies to improve early mortality of intensive induction treatment.

Frequency and risk factors for thrombosis in acute myeloid leukemia and high-risk myelodysplastic syndromes treated with intensive chemotherapy: a two centers observational study

The frequency of thrombosis in AML has been evaluated only in a few studies and no validated predictive model is currently available. Recently, DIC score was shown to identify patients at higher thrombotic risk. We aimed to evaluate the frequency of thromboembolism in AML patients treated with intensive chemotherapy and to assess the ability of genetic and clinical factors to predict the thrombotic risk. We performed a retrospective observational study including 222 newly diagnosed adult AML (210) and high-risk MDS (12), treated with intensive chemotherapy between January 2013 and February 2020. With a median follow-up of 44 months, we observed 50 thrombotic events (90% were venous, VTE). The prevalence of thrombosis was 22.1% and the 6-months cumulative incidence of thrombosis was 10%. The median time to thrombosis was 84 days and 52% of the events occurred within 100 days from AML diagnosis. Khorana and DIC score failed to stratify patients according to their thrombotic risk. Only history of a thrombotic event (p = 0.043), particularly VTE (p = 0.0053), platelet count above 100 × 10⁹/L at diagnosis (p = 0.036) and active smoking (p = 0.025) significantly and independently increased the risk of thrombosis, the latter particularly of arterial events. AML genetic profile did not affect thrombosis occurrence. Results were confirmed considering only thromboses occurring within day 100 from diagnosis. DIC score at diagnosis, but not thrombosis, was independently associated with reduced survival (p = 0.004). Previous VTE, platelet count above 100 × 10⁹/L and active smoking were the only factors associate with increased thrombotic risk in AML patients treated intensively, but further studies are needed to validate these results.

Clinical Features of Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation According to the French-American-British Classification in Patients With Acute Leukemia and Thrombomodulin Alfa Treatment-A Cohort Study Using a Postmarketing Surveillance Database

The aims of this study were to analyze the clinical features of a large number of cases with disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) associated with acute leukemia and to assess the safety and efficacy of thrombomodulin alfa (TM-α) using the French-American-British (FAB) classification of hematological malignancies. We retrospectively examined 644 patients with acute leukemia in postmarketing surveillance for TM-α. M3, M2, M4, M1, and M5 subtypes of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and L2 and L1 subtypes of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) have been found more frequently among patients with DIC. Bleeding symptoms at baseline were more frequent in M3 and M7 subtypes. Fibrinogen concentrations were lower, and plasmin-plasmin inhibitor complex values were higher in M3 and Philadelphia-positive (Ph+) ALL. Overall DIC resolution rate was 60.2%, higher in L1 and Ph+ ALL, lower in M1, and generally higher in ALL than in AML. Overall survival rate was generally high, at 79.8%, with higher rates in L3, Ph+ ALL, and M3. Regardless of FAB subgroup, TM-α showed improved bleeding symptoms and DIC scores in clinical practice for DIC patients with acute leukemia.

Acute promyelocytic leukemia presenting as recurrent venous and arterial thrombotic events: a case report and review of the literature

Acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL) is a distinct subtype of acute myeloid leukemia characterized by a translocation of chromosomes 15 and 17, creating an alternation in the retinoic acid receptor-alpha (RAR-alpha) gene. This leads to excessive medullary production of promyelocytic blasts, which are frequently associated with the hemorrhagic complications seen in APL. In contrast, APL-associated thrombosis occurs much less frequently and is an underappreciated life-threatening manifestation of the disease. Most thrombotic events occur during induction chemotherapy with all-transretinoic acid and are rarely seen as the initial presentation on APL. Here we report an exceedingly rare case of a patient with recurrent venous and arterial thrombotic events, including deep vein thrombosis, bilateral segmental pulmonary embolism, an ischemic stroke, splenic infarcts, and renal infarcts, later found to have APL. We aim to discuss the most recent understanding of the pathogenesis of APL-associated thrombosis and to summarize the literature of this rare presentation of APL.

Pathophysiology of Coagulopathy in Hematological Malignancies and in COVID-19

Many severe illnesses with a systemic impact may cause activation of coagulation. While systemic activation of coagulation leads to a coagulopathy that follows many common activation pathways and failure of endogenous regulatory anticoagulant systems, underlying conditions may utilize distinctive pathogenetic routes and may vary in clinical manifestations of the coagulopathy. The coagulation derangement associated with hematological malignancies and the coagulopathy of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) clearly demonstrate such differences. Malignancies are associated with venous thromboembolism due to the biological effect of malignant cells, frequent medical interventions, or the presence of indwelling vascular catheters. The underlying pathogenesis of cancer-associated coagulopathy relies on tissue factor-mediated activation of coagulation, cytokine-controlled defective anticoagulant pathways, fibrinolytic changes, and dysfunctional endothelium. There is an additional risk caused by anti-cancer agents including chemotherapy and immunotherapy. The underlying pathogenetic factor that contributes to the thrombotic risk associated with chemotherapy is endothelial cell injury (or loss of protection of endothelial integrity, for example, by vascular endothelial growth factor inhibition). In addition, individual anti-cancer agents may have specific prothrombotic effects. One of the remarkable features of severe COVID-19 infections is a coagulopathy that mimics but is not identical to the disseminated intravascular coagulation and thrombotic microangiopathy and has been identified as a strong marker for an adverse outcome. Severe COVID-19 infections cause inflammation-induced changes in coagulation in combination with severe endothelial cell injury. This coagulopathy likely contributes to pulmonary microvascular thrombosis, bronchoalveolar fibrin deposition (which is a hallmark of acute respiratory distress syndrome) and venous thromboembolic complications.

Management of Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation in Acute Leukemias

Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) is characterized by the intravascular activation of coagulation with loss of localization arising from different causes, and is diagnosed using scoring systems which rely upon the presence of an underlying disorder compatible with DIC alongside hemostatic derangements such as low platelet count, prolonged prothrombin time, and elevated fibrinogen degradation products. DIC is common in patients with acute leukemia, with prevalence ranging from 17 to 100% in acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL) and 8.5 to 25% in acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) and non-APL acute myeloid leukemia (AML). The pathophysiology is complex and varies between the leukemia subtypes, and is not fully reflected by the laboratory markers currently used to classify DIC. Similarly, the clinical consequence of DIC in acute leukemia also varies across the types of leukemia. DIC is primarily associated with bleeding in APL, while thrombosis is the dominant phenotype in ALL and non-APL AML. The cornerstone of managing DIC is the treatment of the underlying disease, as exemplified by the important role of early administration of all-trans retinoic acid in APL. Other aspects of management focus on supportive care aimed at minimizing the risk of bleeding, via transfusion of blood products. The use of blood products is more liberal in APL, due to the hemorrhagic phenotype and unacceptably high rates of early hemorrhagic death. This review will focus on the pathophysiology, risk factors, clinical implications, and the management of DIC in patients across the spectrum of acute leukemias.

Trends and outcomes of venous thromboembolism in adult hospitalizations with acute myeloid leukemia: analysis of nationwide inpatient sample from 2010 to 2014

Background: Venous thromboembolism (VTE) occurs frequently in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) patients. There are no population-based studies from the United States (U.S.) analyzing this association. The study aims to analyze the trends, predictors of mortality, and outcomes of VTE in AML patients.Methods: We analyzed the publicly available Nationwide Inpatient Sample (NIS) for years 2010-2014. Hospitalizations due to AML were identified by previously validated International Classification of Diseases, 9th Revision, Clinical Modification (ICD-9-CM) codes as the primary diagnosis. VTE was identified by ICD-9-CM codes as secondary diagnosis. Hospitalizations with age less than 18 years of age were excluded. The trends and outcomes were determined using Chi-squared (χ2) test and multivariate regression models.Results: From 2010 to 2014, there were 313,282 hospitalizations with a primary diagnosis of AML and 1,633 hospitalizations (0.1%) had VTE as a concurrent diagnosis. There was a significant increase in the proportion of AML hospitalizations with VTE from 0.47% in 2010 to 0.56% in 2014 (P = 0.014). Multivariable regression analysis showed that the odds of in-hospital mortality were not higher in AML hospitalizations with VTE (odds ratio [OR] 1.11; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.81-1.52; P = 0.5) than those without VTE. Age group above 84 years carried the highest risk of mortality (OR 3.20; 95% CI 2.77-3.70; P < 0.0001) in AML-VTE patients. Black (OR 1.23; 95% CI 1.13-1.35; P < 0.0001) and uninsured patients (OR 1.50; 95% CI 1.31-1.73; P < 0.0001) were at significantly higher odds of in-hospital mortality amongst the AML-VTE hospitalizations.Conclusion: The proportion of AML hospitalizations with VTE continues to rise in the U.S. After adjusting for confounders, increasing age, Black race, and lack of insurance were found to have higher risk of in-hospital mortality in the AML-VTE cohort. The odds of in-hospital mortality in AML hospitalizations with VTE are not higher than those without VTE.

Management of hemostatic complications in acute leukemia: Guidance from the SSC of the ISTH

Patients with acute leukemia frequently develop thrombocytopenia and hemostatic complications caused by coagulopathy. Coagulopathy complicates the management of these patients and can lead to significant morbidity and mortality. This guidance document aims to review and provide guidance on the management of hemostatic complications in adult patients with acute leukemia, addressing four main issues, including platelet transfusion, disseminated intravascular coagulation, L-asparaginase-related hypofibrinogenemia, and the use of antifibrinolytic agents.

Oncologic Emergencies: Traditional and Contemporary

The recognition and management of oncologic emergencies are becoming increasingly relevant in the intensive care unit, particularly in the era of novel biologic therapies. Early recognition and multidisciplinary collaboration are essential to improving patient outcomes. This article discusses aspects of diagnosis and management for important malignancy-associated emergencies.

Disseminated intravascular coagulation in children with cancer: A systematic review

Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) may complicate malignant disease. Numerous studies have investigated this association in adults, however only sparse knowledge exists on DIC in pediatric cancer patients. The objective of this article was to systematically review the literature regarding DIC in pediatric malignancies. PubMed and Embase were searched for relevant articles on January 31, 2020. In total, 6,070 articles were identified out of which 24 articles met inclusion and exclusion criteria. These were included in the qualitative synthesis. The National Institutes of Health's Quality Assessment Tools was used to assess bias in the included articles. The studies were of only moderate quality mainly based on medical charts and demonstrated high heterogeneity, especially as regards to diagnostic criteria. DIC was reported most frequently in patients with acute leukemia, particularly the subtype acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL). Standard coagulation parameters were used as diagnostic laboratory tests supporting the diagnosis of DIC. Hemorrhage was the predominant clinical manifestation, whereas thromboembolic events and organ failure were reported less frequently. Unfractionated heparin, platelet concentrate and fresh frozen plasma were the most frequently used supportive treatment agents. Hemorrhage accounted for the majority of deaths in children with acute leukemia and solid tumors. In conclusion, only a limited number of studies, being heterogenous and of moderate quality, have investigated DIC in pediatric malignancy. Notably, this entity seems to be complicated mainly by hemorrhage. High quality studies are needed to evaluate diagnosis, clinical manifestations and optimal treatment of DIC in childhood cancers.

Bleeding Disorders Associated with Cancer

Cancer can be associated with several distinct coagulation defects which can lead to bleeding complications. The primary hyperfibrinolytic syndrome associated with acute promyelocytic leukemia has been well recognized and is one of the most severe bleeding disorders. Acquired hemophilia, while rare and not only seen in the oncology setting, can be triggered by a malignancy and must be promptly recognized in order to prevent catastrophic hemorrhage. Other, less serious coagulopathic states have been linked to cancer, including acquired von Willebrand disease. Finally, several anti-neoplastic drugs can alter hemostasis and increase the risk of bleeding. A good understanding of this field can help mitigate the risk of complications in the cancer patient.

[Clinical evaluation of Chinese disseminated intravascular coagulation scoring system (version 2017) in patients with acute promyelocytic leukemia]

目的

探索2017年版中国DIC诊断积分系统（CDSS）在急性早幼粒细胞白血病（APL）DIC诊断中的适用性。

方法

回顾性分析2004年1月至2018年2月就诊于中国医学科学院血液病医院并行诱导治疗的220例APL患者病历资料，采用CDSS、国际血栓与止血协会（ISTH）DIC积分系统和日本卫生福利部（JMHW）DIC积分系统分别进行评价及比较分析。

结果

220例APL患者中，男114例，女106例，中位年龄38.5（12~70）岁，其中低/中危组173例，高危组47例。11例患者诱导治疗期死亡。CDSS、ISTH、JMHW三种标准诊断DIC阳性率分别为62.27%、54.09%、69.09%。CDSS和ISTH诊断DIC的一致率为78.10%，CDSS和JMHW诊断DIC的一致率为88.32%。ROC曲线比较三者互为参照的敏感度及特异度，敏感度JMHW>CDSS>ISTH，特异度ISTH>CDSS>JMHW。CDSS DIC（+）和DIC（−）组患者PT、APTT、纤维蛋白原（FIB）、D-二聚体及纤维蛋白原/纤维蛋白降解产物（FDP）之间差异均有统计学意义（P值均<0.05）；但采用ISTH诊断积分系统时DIC（−）组的D-二聚体水平高于DIC（+）组[26.3（0.6~488.7）mg/L对21.9（1.2~477.1）mg/L，χ²=1.871，P=0.002]；采用JMHW诊断积分系统时DIC（+）与DIC（−）组的APTT差异无统计学意义[27.05（18.0~181.0）s对26.15（18.2~35.5）s，χ²=1.162，P=0.134]。CDSS DIC（+）和DIC（−）组患者的年龄及性别差异无统计学意义（P>0.05）；单因素Logistic回归显示患者起病时WBC、骨髓中异常早幼粒细胞比例对DIC的发生存在影响（P<0.05），而多因素分析显示在CDSS中起病时WBC>3×10⁹/L是DIC发生的独立危险因素（OR=3.525，95%CI 1.875~6.629，P<0.001）。

结论

2017年版CDSS诊断DIC的敏感度高于ISTH DIC积分系统，特异度优于JMHW DIC积分系统。CDSS较ISTH、JMHW对于DIC相关指标具有较好区分度，适用于中国APL患者的DIC诊断。

Analysis of the role of thrombomodulin in all-trans retinoic acid treatment of coagulation disorders in cancer patients

BACKGROUND

Clinical studies have shown that all-trans retinoic acid (RA), which is often used in treatment of cancer patients, improves hemostatic parameters and bleeding complications such as disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC). However, the mechanisms underlying this improvement have yet to be elucidated. In vitro studies have reported that RA upregulates thrombomodulin (TM) expression on the endothelial cell surface. The objective of this study was to investigate how and to what extent the TM concentration changes after RA treatment in cancer patients, and how this variation influences the blood coagulation cascade.

RESULTS

In this study, we introduced an ordinary differential equation (ODE) model of gene expression for the RA-induced upregulation of TM concentration. Coupling the gene expression model with a two-compartment pharmacokinetic model of RA, we obtained the time-dependent changes in TM and thrombomodulin-mRNA (TMR) concentrations following oral administration of RA. Our results indicated that the TM concentration reached its peak level almost 14 h after taking a single oral dose (110 [Formula: see text]) of RA. Continuous treatment with RA resulted in oscillatory expression of TM on the endothelial cell surface. We then coupled the gene expression model with a mechanistic model of the coagulation cascade, and showed that the elevated levels of TM over the course of RA therapy with a single daily oral dose (110 [Formula: see text]) of RA, reduced the peak thrombin levels and endogenous thrombin potential (ETP) up to 50 and 49%, respectively. We showed that progressive reductions in plasma levels of RA, observed in continuous RA therapy with a once-daily oral dose (110 [Formula: see text]) of RA, did not affect TM-mediated reduction of thrombin generation significantly. This finding prompts the hypothesis that continuous RA treatment has more consistent therapeutic effects on coagulation disorders than on cancer.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results indicate that the oscillatory upregulation of TM expression on the endothelial cells over the course of RA therapy could potentially contribute to the treatment of coagulation abnormalities in cancer patients. Further studies on the impacts of RA therapy on the procoagulant activity of cancer cells are needed to better elucidate the mechanisms by which RA therapy improves hemostatic abnormalities in cancer.

Cancer-Associated Thrombosis: An Overview of Mechanisms, Risk Factors, and Treatment

Cancer-associated thrombosis is a major cause of mortality in cancer patients, the most common type being venous thromboembolism (VTE). Several risk factors for developing VTE also coexist with cancer patients, such as chemotherapy and immobilisation, contributing to the increased risk cancer patients have of developing VTE compared with non-cancer patients. Cancer cells are capable of activating the coagulation cascade and other prothrombotic properties of host cells, and many anticancer treatments themselves are being described as additional mechanisms for promoting VTE. This review will give an overview of the main thrombotic complications in cancer patients and outline the risk factors for cancer patients developing cancer-associated thrombosis, focusing on VTE as it is the most common complication observed in cancer patients. The multiple mechanisms involved in cancer-associated thrombosis, including the role of anticancer drugs, and a brief outline of the current treatment for cancer-associated thrombosis will also be discussed.

How I treat disseminated intravascular coagulation

Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) is a condition characterized by systemic activation of coagulation, potentially leading to thrombotic obstruction of small and midsize vessels, thereby contributing to organ dysfunction. At the same time, ongoing consumption of platelets and coagulation proteins results in thrombocytopenia and low concentrations of clotting factors, which may cause profuse hemorrhagic complications. DIC is always secondary to an underlying condition, such as severe infections, solid or hematologic malignancies, trauma, or obstetric calamities. A reliable diagnosis of DIC can be made through simple scoring algorithms based on readily available routine hemostatic parameters. The cornerstone of supportive treatment of this coagulopathy is management of the underlying condition. Additionally, administration of heparin may be useful, and restoration of physiological anticoagulants has been suggested, but has not been proven successful in improving clinically relevant outcomes so far. In patients with major bleeding or at risk for hemorrhagic complications, administration of platelet concentrates, plasma, or coagulation factor concentrates should be considered.

In Vitro Assessment of Nanoparticle Effects on Blood Coagulation

Blood clotting is a complex process which involves both cellular and biochemical components. The key cellular players in the blood clotting process are thrombocytes or platelets. Other cells, including leukocytes and endothelial cells, contribute to clotting by expressing the so-called pro-coagulant activity (PCA) complex on their surface. The biochemical component of blood clotting is represented by the plasma coagulation cascade, which includes plasma proteins also known as coagulation factors. The coordinated interaction between platelets, leukocytes, endothelial cells, and plasma coagulation factors is necessary for maintaining hemostasis and for preventing excessive bleeding. Undesirable activation of all or some of these components may lead to pathological blood coagulation and life-threatening conditions such as consumptive coagulopathy or disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC). In contrast, unintended inhibition of the coagulation pathways may lead to hemorrhage. Thrombogenicity is the property of a test material to induce blood coagulation by affecting one or more elements of the clotting process. Anticoagulant activity refers to the property of a test material to inhibit coagulation. The tendency to cause platelet aggregation, perturb plasma coagulation, and induce leukocyte PCA can serve as an in vitro measure of a nanomaterial's likelihood to be pro- or anticoagulant in vivo. This chapter describes three procedures for in vitro analyses of platelet aggregation, plasma coagulation time, and activation of leukocyte PCA. Platelet aggregation and plasma coagulation procedures have been described earlier. The revision here includes updated details about nanoparticle sample preparation, selection of nanoparticle concentration for the in vitro study, and updated details about assay controls. The chapter is expanded to describe a method for the leukocyte PCA analysis and case studies demonstrating the performance of these in vitro assays.

Complications and management of coagulation disorders in leukemia patients

Patients with leukemia are predisposed to various coagulation abnormalities. Thrombosis and bleeding continue to be a major cause of morbidity and mortality in leukemias. The pathophysiology of these disorders is unique, and not only the disease but also the treatment and other factors play a role. There has been an increase in the understanding of these disorders in leukemias. However, it is still difficult to predict when and which patients will have these complications. The evidence for the management of coagulation abnormalities in leukemias is still evolving and not as established as in solid malignancies. The management of these disorders is complex, and making clinical decisions is often challenging. In the era of specialization, where there are different hematologists looking after benign- and malignant-hematology patients, opinions of thrombosis experts are often sought by leukemia specialists. This review aims to bridge the gap in the knowledge of these disorders between these specialists.

A Revised Fibrinogen Cutoff Value in the Chinese Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation Scoring System May Provide a Better Prognostic Value for Hematological Malignancies

To retrospectively validate the prognostic value of the latest Chinese disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) scoring system (CDSS) in hematological malignancies, 260 patients with confirmed hematological malignancies and suspected DIC in West China Hospital between 2011 and 2015 were included in this study. We evaluated via univariate and multivariate analyses the diagnostic biomarkers, and the cutoff levels used in the CDSS, except those for fibrinogen, were found to be valid. In subgroup analyses, the value of fibrinogen was found to be mainly unfit for the acute promyelocytic leukemia group. Forty-six patients (17.7%) had elevated fibrinogen levels (>4 g/L) and tended to have a poor prognosis, and thus we redetermined the cutoff value of fibrinogen (<1 g/L or >4 g/L was defined as abnormal). As a result, all of the markers used in the CDSS had prognostic value (including for the promyelocytic leukemia group); meanwhile, this modification also resulted in a larger area under the receiver operating characteristic curve compared to the CDSS and the International Society on Thrombosis and Haemostasis score. We believe that, with regard to prognosis prediction, this cutoff value modification for fibrinogen is preferable for DIC patients with a tendency toward severe hypofibrinogenemia. However, a multicenter, prospective study is needed to validate this possibility.

Evaluation of the safety and efficacy of recombinant soluble thrombomodulin for patients with disseminated intravascular coagulation associated with acute leukemia: multicenter prospective study by the Tohoku Hematology Forum

It has been suggested that use of recombinant soluble thrombomodulin (rTM) is superior to conventional drugs in treatment of disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) complicating acute leukemia. However, its safety and efficacy have not been fully examined in prospective studies. Here, we performed a multicenter prospective study to examine outcomes of rTM treatment for DIC in patients with acute leukemia. Of 33 patients registered in this study, 13 had acute myeloid leukemia (AML), three had acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), and 17 had acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL). The cumulative rates of DIC resolution at day 7 and day 35 were 56 and 81% in AML/ALL and 53 and 77% in APL, respectively. The median time from the initiation of rTM to DIC resolution was 4 days in AML/ALL and 6 days in APL patients. Adverse events related to hemorrhage occurred in two AML/ALL patients (13%) and three APL patients (18%). Of these, one AML/ALL patient died with intracranial hemorrhage, and two APL patients died with intracranial hemorrhage and pulmonary hemorrhage. These results suggest that rTM may improve the survival of acute leukemia patients with DIC by inhibiting early death related to hemorrhagic events, as reported previously.

Rifampicin-induced disseminated intravascular coagulation in pulmonary tuberculosis treatment: A case report and literature review

RATIONALE

Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) induced by daily rifampicin therapy is rare, especially the patient is absent of malignancy, severe infection, and prior exposure to rifampicin.

PATIENT CONCERNS

We report a case of DIC induced by daily rifampicin treatment for pulmonary tuberculosis. A 22-year-old, previously healthy man received an anti-tuberculosis therapy consisting of isoniazid, rifampicin, ethambutol, and pyrazinamide on the daily dose recommended by the World Health Organization tuberculosis guidelines after a diagnosis of pulmonary tuberculosis. Two weeks later, he was transferred to the West China Hospital with nasal hemorrhage for 1 week, hematochezia, hematuria, and petechiae for 5 days.

DIAGNOSES

Laboratory data and symptoms on admission indicated DIC.

INTERVENTIONS

The anti-tuberculosis drugs were discontinued after admission and he was initiated with targeted treatment for DIC, omeprazole and polyene hosphatidylcholine infusion, as well as nutrition supportive treatment. Five days after admission, ethambutol, moxifloxacin, and amikacin were added to the patient without further active hemorrhage. Eight days after admission, the platelet count had risen gradually. Isoniazid was administered on 24 days after admission, while his liver function tests and platelet counts returned to normal. No recurrence of DIC occurred. The diagnosis of rifampicin-induced DIC was confirmed.

OUTCOMES

The patient recovered and left hospital with isoniazid, ethambutol, levofloxacin, and streptomycin after 4 weeks of hospitalization. There was no recurrence of DIC or hemorrhage during the 8 months of follow-up. The literature review revealed that there were 10 other cases of rifampicin-induced DIC. Only 4 cases received rifampicin on a daily basis for pulmonary tuberculosis treatment and the others were on intermittent dosing schedule for pulmonary tuberculosis or leprosy treatment.

LESSONS

As a rare adverse effect, DIC induced by rifampicin occurs irregularly and unpredictably, which is reported to be more associated with the intermittent usage of rifampicin, but can occur with rifampicin daily administration. Identification of early symptoms, drug discontinuation, supportive management, and regular monitoring are the key points to correct this adverse effect, which may contribute to severe even fetal results in patients and deserves more attention.

Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation in Acute Leukemia at Presentation and During Induction Therapy

Between January 2001 and December 2003, 67 patients with acute leukemia were evaluated prospectively for hemostatic abnormality at presentation, of which 43 (64.2%) had acute lymphoblastic leukemia and 24 (35.8%) had acute myelogenous leukemia. At presentation, 27 patients (40.3%) had bleeding manifestations. Thrombocytopenia was present in 57 patients (85%), and 33(49.3%) had some abnormality of global coagulation markers. Disseminated intravascular coagulation was defined by International Society of Thrombosis and Hemostasis criteria. Disseminated intravascular coagulation was more often associated with bleeding manifestations in acute myelogenous leukemia cases than in acute lymphoblastic leukemia cases. Two patients presented disseminated intravascular coagulation on day 7 of chemotherapy, without any bleeding manifestations. Four of 15 evaluated cases who had a bleeding or infection complication after day 7 of induction therapy also had disseminated intravascular coagulation. It is recommended that all patients with leukemia be investigated for disseminated intravascular coagulation at presentation.

Disseminated intravascular coagulation at diagnosis is a strong predictor for thrombosis in acute myeloid leukemia

Venous thromboembolism is a common complication in patients with cancer, but only limited data are available in acute myeloid leukemia (AML). In a prospective study in a cohort of 272 adult patients (aged 18-65) and an independent validation cohort of 132 elderly adults (aged >60) with newly diagnosed AML, we assessed markers of disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) (fibrinogen, D-dimer, α-2-antiplasmin, antitrombin, prothrombin time, and platelet count) and the DIC score according the International Society of Thrombosis and Haemostasis and their associations with the occurrence of venous and arterial thrombosis during follow-up. The prevalence of thrombosis was 8.7% (4.7% venous, 4.0% arterial) in the younger adults over a median follow-up of 478 days and 10.4% (4.4% venous, 5.9% arterial) in elderly patients. Most thrombotic events (66%) occurred before the start of the second course of chemotherapy. The calculated DIC score significantly predicted venous and arterial thrombosis with a hazard ratio (HR) for a high DIC score (≥5) of 4.79 (1.71-13.45). These results were confirmed in the validation cohort of elderly patients with AML (HR 11.08 [3.23-38.06]). Among all DIC parameters, D-dimer levels are most predictive for thrombosis with an HR of 12.3 (3.39-42.64) in the first cohort and an HR of 7.82 (1.95-31.38) in validation cohort for a D-dimer >4 mg/L vs ≤4 mg/L. It is concluded that venous and arterial thrombosis may develop in ∼10% of AML patients treated with intensive chemotherapy, which to a large extent can be predicted by the presence of DIC at time of AML diagnosis.

Pre-treatment with oral hydroxyurea prior to intensive chemotherapy improves early survival of patients with high hyperleukocytosis in acute myeloid leukemia

Acute myeloid leukemia with high white blood cell count (WBC) is a medical emergency. A reduction of tumor burden with hydroxyurea may prevent life-threatening complications induced by straight chemotherapy. To evaluate this strategy, we reviewed medical charts of adult patients admitted to our institution from 1997 to 2011 with non-promyelocytic AML and WBC over 50 G/L. One hundred and sixty patients were included with a median WBC of 120 G/L (range 50-450), 107 patients received hydroxyurea prior to chemotherapy, and 53 received emergency induction chemotherapy (CT). Hospital mortality was lower for patients treated with hydroxyurea (34% versus 19%, p = 0.047) even after adjusting for age (p < 0.01) and initial WBC count (p = 0.02). No evidence of any difference between treatment groups in terms of WBC decline kinetics and disease free survival (p = 0.87) was found. Oral hydroxyurea prior to chemotherapy seems a safe and efficient strategy to reduce early death of hyperleukocytic AML patients.

Alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma with massive disseminated intravascular coagulopathy treated with systemic chemotherapy

It is uncommon for pediatric patients with rhabdomyosarcoma to present with clinical and/or laboratory features of disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC). We report a case of metastatic alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma with severe bleeding because of DIC in a 13-year-old boy. He experienced persistent oozing at the site of a previous operation, gross hematuria, and massive epistaxis. Two weeks after initiating combination chemotherapy consisting of vincristine, doxorubicin, and cyclophosphamide, the patients' laboratory indications of DIC began to resolve. During this period, the patient received massive blood transfusion of a total of 311 units (26 units of red blood cells, 26 units of fresh frozen plasma, 74 units of platelet concentrates, 17 units of single donor platelets, and 168 units of cryoprecipitate), antithrombin-III and a synthetic protease inhibitor. Despite chemotherapy and radiation therapy, he died 1 year later because of disease progression. In children with metastatic rhabdomyosarcoma and massive DIC, prompt chemotherapy and aggressive supportive care is important to decrease malignancy-triggered procoagulant activities.

Heat stroke

Heat stroke is a life-threatening condition clinically diagnosed as a severe elevation in body temperature with central nervous system dysfunction that often includes combativeness, delirium, seizures, and coma. Classic heat stroke primarily occurs in immunocompromised individuals during annual heat waves. Exertional heat stroke is observed in young fit individuals performing strenuous physical activity in hot or temperature environments. Long-term consequences of heat stroke are thought to be due to a systemic inflammatory response syndrome. This article provides a comprehensive review of recent advances in the identification of risk factors that predispose to heat stroke, the role of endotoxin and cytokines in mediation of multi-organ damage, the incidence of hypothermia and fever during heat stroke recovery, clinical biomarkers of organ damage severity, and protective cooling strategies. Risk factors include environmental factors, medications, drug use, compromised health status, and genetic conditions. The role of endotoxin and cytokines is discussed in the framework of research conducted over 30 years ago that requires reassessment to more clearly identify the role of these factors in the systemic inflammatory response syndrome. We challenge the notion that hypothalamic damage is responsible for thermoregulatory disturbances during heat stroke recovery and highlight recent advances in our understanding of the regulated nature of these responses. The need for more sensitive clinical biomarkers of organ damage is examined. Conventional and emerging cooling methods are discussed with reference to protection against peripheral organ damage and selective brain cooling.

Treatment for disseminated intravascular coagulation in patients with acute and chronic leukemia

BACKGROUND

Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) is an acquired syndrome characterized by systemic intravascular activation of coagulation, leading to deposition of fibrin in the bloodstream. It may occur in patients with acute and chronic leukemia and is particularly associated with acute promyelocytic leukemia (a subtype of acute myeloid leukemia).

OBJECTIVES

To assess the clinical benefits and harms of any pharmacological intervention for treating DIC in patients with acute or chronic leukemia.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) (the Cochrane Library 2015, Issue 05), MEDLINE (1946 to 7 May 2015), LILACS (1982 to 7 May 2015) and African Index Medicus (7 May 2015). There was no language restrictions. We sought additional randomized controlled trials (RCTs) from the World Health Organization International Clinical Trials Registry Platform and the reference lists of primary studies identified.

SELECTION CRITERIA

RCTs assessing the clinical benefits and harms of interventions for treating DIC in patients with acute and chronic leukemia.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two review authors independently performed trial selection, 'Risk of bias' assessment and data extraction. Primary outcomes were overall mortality, in-hospital mortality from any cause (15-day and 30-day) and adverse events.

MAIN RESULTS

In this Cochrane Review update we did not include any new RCT compared with the first review version. Accordingly, four RCTs (388 participants) met the inclusion criteria. These trials evaluated the human activated protein C, recombinant human soluble thrombomodulin, tranexamic acid and dermatan sulphate. Included trials reported data on mortality and bleeding. The studies were conducted in Japan, Italy and the Netherlands. We classified the included trials as: 1) including patients with or without leukemia which did not report data for the leukemia subgroup (366 participants); and 2) only including patients with leukemia (22 participants). Overall, the risk of bias of the included trials was high, since the trial authors did not provide a detailed description about trial design and execution.According to the GRADE recommendations, we judged the overall quality of the body of evidence for all prefixed outcomes as 'very low', due to methodological limitations and very small sample size.One trial, including 10 participants with leukemia and comparing dermatan sulphate with heparin, reported no deaths during trial treatment.In terms of bleeding data, we were unable to pool results from two studies that were only conducted with leukemia patients due to the inconsistency in the measurement and reporting of this outcome. One trial, including 12 participants with leukemia, found very low quality evidence that tranexamic acid can reduce the cumulative hemorrhagic score in participants compared with those assigned to placebo (P = 0.0015, very low quality evidence). On the contrary, there is no evidence that dermatan sulphate compared with placebo reduces new events of hemorrhagic diathesis (1/5 (20%) versus 2/5 (40%); RR 0.50; 95% CI 0.06 to 3.91; P = 0.51, very low quality evidence).No thromboembolic complications were reported in either trial that included patients with leukemia only (very low quality evidence). The safety profile was inconclusive.The included trials did not assess overall mortality, resolution of respiratory failure, renal failure or shock.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Due to a lack of new RCTs, our conclusions in this Cochrane Review update are the same as the previous review version. We included four RCTs which reported mortality and bleeding data. It is not possible to determine whether human activated protein C, recombinant human soluble thrombomodulin, tranexamic acid and dermatan sulphate are effective or harmful for patients presenting with DIC related to acute or chronic leukemia. The quality of the evidence was low to very low. Therefore, prescription of these interventions for treating DIC in patients with acute and chronic leukemia can neither be supported nor rejected, unless new evidence from a large high-quality trial alters this conclusion.

Venomous snake bites: clinical diagnosis and treatment

Snake bites are life-threatening injuries that can require intensive care. The diagnosis and treatment of venomous snake bites is sometimes difficult for clinicians because sufficient information has not been provided in clinical practice. Here we review the literature to present the proper management of bites by mamushi, habu, and yamakagashi snakes, which widely inhabit Japan and other Asian countries. No definite diagnostic markers or kits are available for clinical practice; therefore, definitive diagnosis of snake-venom poisoning requires positive identification of the snake and observation of the clinical manifestations of envenomation. Mamushi (Gloydius blomhoffii) bites cause swelling and pain that spreads gradually from the bite site. The platelet count gradually decreases due to the platelet aggregation activity of the venom and can decrease to <100,000/mm(3). If the venom gets directly injected into the blood vessel, the platelet count rapidly decreases to <10,000/mm(3) within 1 h after the bite. Habu (Protobothrops flavoviridis) bites result in swelling within 30 min. Severe cases manifest not only local signs but also general symptoms such as vomiting, cyanosis, loss of consciousness, and hypotension. Yamakagashi (Rhabdophis tigrinus) bites induce life-threatening hemorrhagic symptoms and severe disseminated intravascular coagulation with a fibrinolytic phenotype, resulting in hypofibrinogenemia and increased levels of fibrinogen degradation products. Previously recommended first-aid measures such as tourniquets, incision, and suction are strongly discouraged. Once airway, breathing, and circulation have been established, a rapid, detailed history should be obtained. If a snake bite is suspected, hospital admission should be considered for further follow-up. All venomous snake bites can be effectively treated with antivenom. Side effects of antivenom should be prevented by sufficient preparation. Approved antivenoms for mamushi and habu are available. Yamakagashi antivenom is used as an off-label drug in Japan, requiring clinicians to join a clinical research group for its use in clinical practice.

Cancer-related coagulopathies

The association between cancer and thrombosis is known for years. Besides the well-recognized connection between venous thromboembolism and malignancies, there are, however, also other manifestations of cancer-related activation of coagulation and (micro)vascular dysfunction. In fact, coagulation derangements and vascular disturbances in patients with cancer cover a wide spectrum of diseases and various clinical manifestations. In this review we will highlight the mechanisms that play a role in the systemic activation of coagulation in cancer patients, in its most severe form manifested as disseminated intravascular coagulation. Clinically, disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) in cancer has in general a less fulminant presentation than the types of DIC complicating sepsis and trauma. A more gradual, but also more chronic, systemic activation of coagulation can proceed subclinically. The relationship between venous thromboembolism and cancer as a consequence of the hypercoagulability will be discussed as well. Furthermore, the role of perturbed endothelium in the pathogenesis of microvascular dysfunction and microangiopathy in particular in the setting of cancer and chemo- or radiotherapy will be reviewed.

Potentially fatal coagulopathy secondary to yamakagashi (Rhabdophis tigrinus) bites that completely recovered with antivenom treatment

Case

A healthy 40-year-old man was admitted with severe coagulopathy that developed after Rhabdophis tigrinus bites. On admission, he showed significantly elevated levels of thrombin-antithrombin III complex (60 ng/mL), plasmin-alpha 2-plasmin inhibitor complex (22.3 μg/mL), and fibrinogen degradation products (592 μg/mL). He subsequently developed severe hypofibrinogenemia (50 mg/dL).

Outcome

Antivenom was given 28 h after the patient was bitten, following which his hemorrhagic symptoms resolved. By day 3 of admission, scabs had formed over the bite wounds. Furthermore, his fibrinogen levels increased to >100 mg/dL, while his thrombin-antithrombin III complex, plasmin-alpha 2-plasmin inhibitor complex, and fibrinogen degradation product levels normalized. He was discharged on day 6 of admission.

Conclusion

Rhabdophis tigrinus bites induced disseminated intravascular coagulation with a fibrinolytic phenotype, which completely recovered with antivenom treatment.

Management of Acute Myeloid Leukemia in the Intensive Care Setting

Patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) who are newly diagnosed or relapsed and those who are receiving cytotoxic chemotherapy are predisposed to conditions such as sepsis due to bacterial and fungal infections, coagulopathies, hemorrhage, metabolic abnormalities, and respiratory and renal failure. These conditions are common reasons for patients with AML to be managed in the intensive care unit (ICU). For patients with AML in the ICU, providers need to be aware of common problems and how to manage them. Understanding the pathophysiology of complications and the recent advances in risk stratification as well as newer therapy for AML are relevant to the critical care provider.

Bleeding and thrombosis in the cancer patient

There is an increased risk not only of bleeding but also of thrombosis in the cancer patient. The double jeopardy creates an additional problem in their management and requires special attention. This review provides information on pathophysiology in the regulation of hemostasis, leading to bleeding and thrombotic complications. The process is complex with multiple factors being involved. In addition to the pathogenesis, a number of clinical syndromes, diagnostic methods and the management of hemostatic abnormalities in the cancer patient are presented. Potential effects of cancer treatment on these risks magnify the hazards encountered by the managing team. Wherever management is discussed, emphasis is placed on the scientific basis for the rationale of the therapeutic approach.

Microparticle bearing tissue factor: a link between promyelocytic cells and hypercoagulable state

Patients with hematological malignancies have a 28-fold increased risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE). Among patients with acute myelogenous leukemia (AML), the 2-year cumulative incidence of VTE is 5.2%. Several studies suggest that microvesicles (MVs) harboring TF may play a role in VTE and disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) in acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL). The aim of this study was to assess the capacity of untreated (APL) cells to shed procoagulant MVs. APL cells (NB4 and HL-60 cell lines) and MVs were separated by filtration (0.1-0.22-0.45-0.65 μm). The procoagulant activity (PCA) was assessed by thrombin generation assay (TGA). Alternatively, MVs were incubated with anti-Tissue Factor (TF) antibodies, with annexin V to assess the contribution of TF and phospholipids (PL) to the PCA, respectively. NB4 cells had a high PCA mainly triggered by MVs of size under 0.45 μm. The PCA of MVs was related to the expression of active TF and PL. HL-60 cells had a weaker PCA since TF is mostly present in its inactive form. Moreover, HL-60 do not produce MVs<0.65 μm associated with PCA. MVs could have a predicting value for VTE and DIC in patients with acute promyelocytic leukemia and could inform physicians about the optimal use of a thromboprophylaxis.

Chronic subdural hematoma in a child with acute myeloid leukemia after leukocytosis

Severe complications that develop in the early stages in patients with acute leukemia have a mortal course. Bleeding, leukostasis, and less frequently, infections are responsible for early mortality. Hemorrhage is most common in acute leukemia and usually leads to death. Hemorrhage may occur due to chemotherapy or bone marrow transplantation in patients with acute leukemia. Leukocytosis, thrombocytopenia, sepsis, and coagulopathy increase the risk of bleeding. There may be multiple etiologic factors. Subdural or subarachnoid hemorrhage is less common than an intra-axial hemorrhage. The incidence of spontaneous subdural hematoma is higher in patients with leukemia. Although advances in the treatment of platelet transfusion and disseminated intravascular coagulation have decreased the incidence of hemorrhagic complications in patients receiving chemotherapy for acute leukemia, intracranial hemorrhage-related deaths are a significant problem. We discussed the etiology and management of chronic subdural hematoma detected in a two-year-old male patient with Acute Myeloid Leukemia and hyperleukocytosis.

Heat-related illness: a hot topic in critical care

With current predictions of climate change, the incidence of heat-related illnesses is projected to increase. Heat-related illnesses occur on a continuum from mild symptoms to fatalities. To prevent heat-related illnesses, nurses should have comprehension of persons at risk. Primary treatment of heat-related illness centers on cooling, but not overcooling, the patient. Heatstroke involves coagulopathies and cytokines, and can result in systemic inflammatory response syndrome and multiple organ dysfunction. Critical care nursing intervention requires more than effective cooling to support bodily processes that have been damaged or destroyed by the pathophysiology of heatstroke.

Low ADAMTS-13 activity during hemorrhagic events with disseminated intravascular coagulation

Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) is a life-threatening complication, and its control is essential for therapeutic success. Recombinant human soluble thrombomodulin alfa (rTM) is a novel therapeutic agent for DIC. The efficacy of rTM in the treatment of DIC is reportedly superior to that of conventional anti-DIC treatments, such as unfractionated heparin or low molecular weight heparin, but hemorrhagic events occasionally interfere with the therapeutic benefits of rTM. We assessed the clinical features of 20 consecutive patients who were given rTM for DIC associated with various hematologic disorders. Eight patients achieved remission of both primary disease and DIC, eight died due to progression of the primary disease, and four died of various hemorrhagic complications. Assessment of 16 biomarkers for coagulation showed that the four patients who died of hemorrhagic complications despite remission of their primary disease showed lower ADAMTS-13 (a disintegrin and metalloproteinase with a thrombospondin Type 1 motif, member 13) plasma activity than other patients (P = 0.016). The optimal cut-off level of ADAMTS-13 for predicting risk of hemorrhagic complications was 42 % (P = 0.007). Plasma ADAMTS-13 activity determined at diagnosis of DIC may help predict the risk of hemorrhagic events during and/or following DIC treatment with hematologic disorders.

Disseminated intravascular coagulation: a review for the internist

Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) is a syndrome characterized by systemic intravascular activation of coagulation, leading to widespread deposition of fibrin in the circulation. Recent knowledge on important pathogenetic mechanisms that may lead to DIC has resulted in novel preventive and therapeutic approaches to patients with DIC. The diagnosis of DIC can be made by sensitive laboratory tests; however, most of these tests are not readily available in a clinical setting. A reliable diagnosis can also be made on the basis of a small series of laboratory tests that can be combined in a scoring algorithm. The cornerstone of the management of DIC is the specific and vigorous treatment of the underlying disorder. Strategies aimed at the inhibition of coagulation activation may theoretically be justified and have been found beneficial in experimental and clinical studies. These strategies comprise inhibition of tissue factor-mediated activation of coagulation or restoration of physiological anticoagulant pathways.

The biochemistry and regulation of S100A10: a multifunctional plasminogen receptor involved in oncogenesis

The plasminogen receptors mediate the production and localization to the cell surface of the broad spectrum proteinase, plasmin. S100A10 is a key regulator of cellular plasmin production and may account for as much as 50% of cellular plasmin generation. In parallel to plasminogen, the plasminogen-binding site on S100A10 is highly conserved from mammals to fish. S100A10 is constitutively expressed in many cells and is also induced by many diverse factors and physiological stimuli including dexamethasone, epidermal growth factor, transforming growth factor-α, interferon-γ, nerve growth factor, keratinocyte growth factor, retinoic acid, and thrombin. Therefore, S100A10 is utilized by cells to regulate plasmin proteolytic activity in response to a wide diversity of physiological stimuli. The expression of the oncogenes, PML-RARα and KRas, also stimulates the levels of S100A10, suggesting a role for S100A10 in pathophysiological processes such as in the oncogenic-mediated increases in plasmin production. The S100A10-null mouse model system has established the critical role that S100A10 plays as a regulator of fibrinolysis and oncogenesis. S100A10 plays two major roles in oncogenesis, first as a regulator of cancer cell invasion and metastasis and secondly as a regulator of the recruitment of tumor-associated cells, such as macrophages, to the tumor site.