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Abstract
BACKGROUND Acquired haemophilia A is a rare bleeding disorder caused by the development of specific autoantibodies against coagulation factor VIII. Standard treatment, usually steroids alone, or in combination with cyclophosphamide, aims to stop acute bleeds by using haemostatic agents to promote clotting. Rituximab may be an alternative approach to the treatment of acquired haemophilia by eradicating FVIII autoantibodies. This is an update of a previously published Cochrane Review. OBJECTIVES To assess the efficacy and adverse effects of rituximab for treating people with acquired haemophilia A. SEARCH METHODS We searched the Cochrane Cystic Fibrosis and Genetic Disorders Group's trials registers, comprising references identified from comprehensive electronic database searches and handsearches of relevant journals and conference proceedings (January 2021). We also undertook searches of CENTRAL, MEDLINE and online trial registries (January 2021). SELECTION CRITERIA Randomised and quasi-randomised controlled trials of rituximab for people with acquired haemophilia A, with no restrictions on gender, age or ethnicity. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS No trials matching the selection criteria were eligible for inclusion. MAIN RESULTS No trials matching the selection criteria were eligible for inclusion. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS We found no randomised clinical trials of rituximab for acquired haemophilia A. Thus, we are not able to draw any conclusions or make any recommendations on rituximab for eradicating inhibitors in people with acquired haemophilia A based on the highest quality evidence. Given that undertaking randomised controlled trials in this field is a complex task, we suggest that, while planning such trials, clinicians treating the disease continue to base their choices on alternative, lower-quality sources of evidence. In a future update of this review, we plan to appraise and incorporate eligible randomised controlled trials, as well as other high-quality, non-randomised studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tracey Remmington
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Sherie Smith
- Division of Child Health, Obstetrics & Gynaecology (COG), School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
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Dewarrat N, Gavillet M, Angelillo-Scherrer A, Naveiras O, Grandoni F, Tsakiris DA, Alberio L, Blum S. Acquired haemophilia A in the postpartum and risk of relapse in subsequent pregnancies: A systematic literature review. Haemophilia 2021; 27:199-210. [PMID: 33550699 DOI: 10.1111/hae.14233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2020] [Revised: 12/05/2020] [Accepted: 12/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND About 1%-5% of acquired haemophilia A cases affect mothers in the postpartum setting. AIMS This study delineates the characteristics of this disease, specific to the postpartum setting, notably relapse in subsequent pregnancies. METHODS Report of two cases and literature study (1946-2019), yielding 73 articles describing 174 cases (total 176 cases). RESULTS Patients were aged 29.9 years (17-41) and 69% primigravidae. Diagnosis was made at a median of 60 days after delivery (range 0-308). Bleeding types were obstetrical (43.4%), cutaneous (41.3%), and muscular (36.7%). In >90% of the cases, FVIII at diagnosis was <1% (range 0%-8%). FVIII inhibitor was documented in 75.4% cases (median titre of 20 BU/ml, range 1-621). Haemostatic treatment was necessary in 57.1% using fresh frozen plasma (16%), factor concentrate (27.6%) and/or bypassing agents (37.4%). Immunosuppressive treatment was administered in 90.8%, mostly steroids (85.3%), alone or combined with immunosuppressants (27%). Rituximab was used mostly as a second line treatment. Only 24 patients (13.6%) had documented subsequent pregnancies and 6 (22.2%) suffered haemophilia recurrence during pregnancy. CONCLUSION This study allows better definition of: (1) clinical and laboratory characteristics of postpartum acquired haemophilia, (2) response to therapy, and (3) the risk of relapse for subsequent pregnancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natacha Dewarrat
- Service and Central Laboratory of Haematology, Department of Oncology and Department of Laboratories and Pathology, Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV), University of Lausanne (UNIL), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Mathilde Gavillet
- Service and Central Laboratory of Haematology, Department of Oncology and Department of Laboratories and Pathology, Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV), University of Lausanne (UNIL), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Anne Angelillo-Scherrer
- Department of Haematology and Central Haematology Laboratory, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Olaia Naveiras
- Service and Central Laboratory of Haematology, Department of Oncology and Department of Laboratories and Pathology, Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV), University of Lausanne (UNIL), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Francesco Grandoni
- Service and Central Laboratory of Haematology, Department of Oncology and Department of Laboratories and Pathology, Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV), University of Lausanne (UNIL), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | | | - Lorenzo Alberio
- Service and Central Laboratory of Haematology, Department of Oncology and Department of Laboratories and Pathology, Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV), University of Lausanne (UNIL), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Sabine Blum
- Service and Central Laboratory of Haematology, Department of Oncology and Department of Laboratories and Pathology, Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV), University of Lausanne (UNIL), Lausanne, Switzerland
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Acquired Haemophilia A: An Intriguing Disease. Mediterr J Hematol Infect Dis 2020; 12:e2020045. [PMID: 32670523 PMCID: PMC7340240 DOI: 10.4084/mjhid.2020.045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2020] [Accepted: 06/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract. Acquired Haemophilia A is a rare acquired bleeding disorder caused by Factor VIII autoantibodies, which neutralise FVIII activity. These inhibitors differ from alloantibodies against FVIII, which can occur in congenital Haemophilia A after repeated exposures to plasma-derived or recombinant FVIII products. In most cases, the disease occurs suddenly in subjects without a personal or familiar history of bleedings, with symptoms that may be mild, moderate, or severe. However, only laboratory alterations are present in ~ 30% of patients. The incidence varies from 1 to 4 cases per million/year; more than 80% of patients are elderly, males and females are similarly affected. There is a small peak of incidence related to pregnancy in young women aged 20–40 years. The disease may be underdiagnosed in the elderly. The diagnostic algorithm is based on an isolated prolonged activated partial thromboplastin time, normal thrombin time, absence of Lupus Anticoagulant, and a mixing test that reveals the presence of an inhibitor: the finding of reduced FVIII activity and the detection of neutralising autoantibodies against FVIII lead to the diagnosis. The disease is idiopathic in 44%–63% of cases, while in the others etiological factors are present. Bleeding prevention and treatment are based on therapeutic tools as by-passing agents, recombinant porcine FVIII concentrate or, in a limited number of cases, FVIII concentrates and desmopressin. As soon as the diagnosis has been made, immunosuppressive therapy must be started to eradicate the inhibitor. Better knowledge of the disease, optimal management of bleeding and eradication of the inhibitor have significantly reduced morbidity and mortality in most patients.
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Kruse-Jarres R, Kempton CL, Baudo F, Collins PW, Knoebl P, Leissinger CA, Tiede A, Kessler CM. Acquired hemophilia A: Updated review of evidence and treatment guidance. Am J Hematol 2017; 92:695-705. [PMID: 28470674 DOI: 10.1002/ajh.24777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 215] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2017] [Revised: 04/24/2017] [Accepted: 04/25/2017] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Acquired hemophilia A (AHA) is a rare disease resulting from autoantibodies (inhibitors) against endogenous factor VIII (FVIII) that leads to bleeding, which is often spontaneous and severe. AHA tends to occur in elderly patients with comorbidities and is associated with high mortality risk from underlying comorbidities, bleeding, or treatment complications. Treatment, which consists of hemostatic management and eradication of the inhibitors, can be challenging to manage. Few data are available to guide the management of AHA-related bleeding and eradication of the disease-causing antibodies. Endorsed by the Hemostasis and Thrombosis Research Society of North America, an international panel of experts in AHA analyzed key questions, reviewed the literature, weighed the evidence and formed a consensus to update existing guidelines. AHA is likely underdiagnosed and misdiagnosed in real-world clinical practice. Recommendations for the management of AHA are summarized here based on the available data, integrated with the clinical experience of panel participants.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Francesco Baudo
- Thrombosis and Haemostasis Unit; Niguarda Hospital; Milan Italy
| | - Peter W. Collins
- Arthur Bloom Haemophilia Centre, School of Medicine Cardiff University; Cardiff United Kingdom
| | - Paul Knoebl
- Department of Medicine 1, Division of Hematology and Hemostasis; Medical University of Vienna; Vienna Austria
| | | | - Andreas Tiede
- Department of Hematology, Hemostasis, Oncology, and Stem Cell Transplantation; Hannover Medical School; Hannover Germany
| | - Craig M. Kessler
- Section of Hematology/Oncology; Georgetown University; Washington District of Columbia
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5
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Acquired haemophilia A is a rare bleeding disorder caused by the development of specific autoantibodies against coagulation factor VIII. Rituximab may be an alternative approach to the treatment of acquired haemophilia by eradicating FVIII autoantibodies. OBJECTIVES To assess and summarise the efficacy and adverse effects of rituximab for treating people with acquired haemophilia A. SEARCH METHODS We searched the Cochrane Cystic Fibrosis and Genetic Disorders Group's trials registers, comprising references identified from comprehensive electronic database searches and handsearches of relevant journals and conference proceedings.Date of last search of the Cochrane Cystic Fibrosis and Genetic Disorders Group's trials registers: 01 March 2016. SELECTION CRITERIA Randomised and quasi-randomised controlled trials of rituximab for people with acquired hemophilia A, with no restrictions on gender, age or ethnicity. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS No trials matching the selection criteria were eligible for inclusion. MAIN RESULTS No trials matching the selection criteria were eligible for inclusion. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS No randomised clinical trials of rituximab for acquired hemophilia A were found. Thus, based on the highest quality of evidence, we are not able to draw any conclusions or make any recommendations on rituximab for eradicating inhibitors in people with acquired haemophilia A. Given that undertaking randomised controlled trials in this field is a complex task, the authors suggest that, while planning such trials, clinicians treating the disease continue to base their choices on alternative, lower quality sources of evidence. The authors plan, for a future update of this review, to appraise and incorporate any randomised controlled trials, as well as other high-quality non-randomised studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Zeng
- General Hospital of Chengdu Military RegionDepartment of Hematology270#, Rongdu Da DaoChengduChina610083
| | - Ruiqing Zhou
- Guangzhou First People's Hospital, Guangzhou Medical UniversityDepartment of HematologyPanfu RoadGuangzhouChina510180
| | - Xin Duan
- West China Hospital, Sichuan UniversityDepartment of Orthopaedics SurgeryNo. 37 GuoXueXiang StreetChengduChina610041
| | - Dan Long
- West China Hospital, Sichuan UniversityKey Laboratory of Transplant Engineering and ImmunologyNo. 37, Guo Xue XiangChengduChina610041
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The anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody rituximab to treat acquired haemophilia A. BLOOD TRANSFUSION = TRASFUSIONE DEL SANGUE 2015; 14:255-61. [PMID: 26509821 DOI: 10.2450/2015.0090-15] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2015] [Accepted: 06/17/2015] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Acquired haemophilia A (AHA) is a rare bleeding disorder caused by the development of specific autoantibodies against naturally occurring factor VIII (FVIII). Although about half of cases are idiopathic, AHA may be associated with several non-neoplastic conditions, autoimmune disorders, as well as haematological malignancies, such as chronic lymphocytic leukaemia and lymphoma. The long-term suppression of inhibitors is one of the mainstays of the treatment of AHA. Apart from standard immunosuppressive treatments, rituximab has been proven to be effective in AHA. MATERIALS AND METHODS The aim of this review is to provide a systematic description of data available in the literature on this topic. To do so, we performed a search using the indexed online database Medline/PubMed, without temporal limits, matching the words "rituximab" and "acquired h(a)emophilia". Furthermore, additional published studies were identified in the reference list of the publications found in PubMed. RESULTS The review of the literature confirms that rituximab may be a safe and useful treatment for AHA. DISCUSSION Although rituximab is not a standard therapy for AHA, it may be useful in resistant cases. However, the definitive place of this monoclonal antibody in the therapeutic strategy for AHA (first or second-line, alone or in combination with other drugs) remains to be determined more precisely and warrants further investigation.
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Acquired inhibitors of clotting factors: AICE recommendations for diagnosis and management. BLOOD TRANSFUSION = TRASFUSIONE DEL SANGUE 2015; 13:498-513. [PMID: 26192778 DOI: 10.2450/2015.0141-15] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
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Role of rituximab in the treatment of postpartum acquired haemophilia A: a systematic review of the literature. BLOOD TRANSFUSION = TRASFUSIONE DEL SANGUE 2014; 13:396-400. [PMID: 25545867 DOI: 10.2450/2014.0242-14] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2014] [Accepted: 11/18/2014] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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Franchini M, Mannucci PM. Inhibitor eradication with rituximab in haemophilia: where do we stand? Br J Haematol 2014; 165:600-8. [PMID: 24628543 DOI: 10.1111/bjh.12829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Rituximab is a humanized chimeric anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody initially developed for the treatment of some haematological malignancies. Thanks to its ability to rapidly and specifically deplete B cells, it has also been used in a variety of autoimmune disorders, haematological or not. In this context, during the last decade several small case series have documented successful inhibitor eradication with rituximab, alone or in combination with other immunosuppressive agents, in patients with acquired haemophilia A refractory to standard therapy. In addition, a number of investigators have recently used this agent in patients with congenital haemophilia A or B and alloantibodies refractory to first-line treatment. This article critically reviews the current knowledge on the use of rituximab in acquired haemophilia or congenital haemophilia complicated by alloantibodies, also providing treatment algorithms for the management of these conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Massimo Franchini
- Department of Transfusion Medicine and Haematology, Carlo Poma Hospital, Mantova, Italy
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10
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W Collins P, Chalmers E, Hart D, Jennings I, Liesner R, Rangarajan S, Talks K, Williams M, R M Hay C. Diagnosis and management of acquired coagulation inhibitors: a guideline from UKHCDO. Br J Haematol 2013; 162:758-73. [PMID: 23889317 DOI: 10.1111/bjh.12463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 94] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Peter W Collins
- School of Medicine, Cardiff University, University Hospital of Wales, Cardiff, UK
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11
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Dierickx D, Beke E, Devos T, Delannoy A. The use of monoclonal antibodies in immune-mediated hematologic disorders. Med Clin North Am 2012; 96:583-619, xi. [PMID: 22703857 DOI: 10.1016/j.mcna.2012.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
In this article, the evidence on the clinical use of monoclonal antibodies in the treatment of immune-mediated hematologic disorders is described. Insights into pathogenic mechanisms have revealed a major role of both B and T cells. Controlled trials have shown conflicting results, necessitating further research regarding pathogenesis, mechanism of action, and resistance. Although the use of more potent and specific monoclonal antibody therapy, mainly targeting costimulation signals, may improve response rates and long-term outcome, its use should be carefully balanced against potential side effects.
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MESH Headings
- Alemtuzumab
- Antibodies, Monoclonal/pharmacology
- Antibodies, Monoclonal/therapeutic use
- Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized/pharmacology
- Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized/therapeutic use
- Antibodies, Monoclonal, Murine-Derived/pharmacology
- Antibodies, Monoclonal, Murine-Derived/therapeutic use
- Antigens, CD20/immunology
- Basiliximab
- Daclizumab
- Graft vs Host Disease/drug therapy
- Hematologic Diseases/immunology
- Hematologic Diseases/therapy
- Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation/adverse effects
- Humans
- Immunoglobulin G/pharmacology
- Immunoglobulin G/therapeutic use
- Immunosuppressive Agents/pharmacology
- Immunosuppressive Agents/therapeutic use
- Infliximab
- Recombinant Fusion Proteins/pharmacology
- Recombinant Fusion Proteins/therapeutic use
- Rituximab
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Affiliation(s)
- Daan Dierickx
- Department of Hematology, University Hospitals Leuven, Herestraat 49, 3000 Leuven, Belgium.
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12
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Abstract
Acquired haemophilia A is an auto-immune disease caused by an inhibitory antibody to factor VIII. The pattern of bleeding varies but patients remain at risk of life threatening bleeding until the inhibitor has been eradicated. The cornerstones of management are; rapid and accurate diagnosis, control of bleeding, investigation for an underlying cause and eradication of the inhibitor by immunosuppression. Patients should always be managed jointly with a specialist centre even if they present without significant bleeding. Despite an extensive literature, few controlled data are available and treatment guidelines are based on expert opinion. To treat bleeds recombinant factor VIIa and activated prothrombin complex concentrate are equally efficacious but both are superior to factor VIII or desmopressin. Immunosuppression should be started as soon as the diagnosis is made. Commonly used regimens are steroids alone or combined with cytotoxic agents. Rituximab is being used more widely but current evidence does not suggest that it improves outcomes or reduces side effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- P W Collins
- Arthur Bloom Haemophilia Centre, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Heath Park, Cardiff, UK
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13
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Barcellini W, Zanella A. Rituximab therapy for autoimmune haematological diseases. Eur J Intern Med 2011; 22:220-9. [PMID: 21570637 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejim.2010.12.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2010] [Revised: 12/21/2010] [Accepted: 12/22/2010] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Autoimmune haematological diseases are characterized by the production of antibodies against blood proteins or cells, and comprise primary immune thrombocytopenia, autoimmune haemolytic anaemia, acquired haemophilia, and thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura. Current treatments for these disorders include corticosteroids, cytotoxic drugs and splenectomy, which may be associated with significant systemic toxicity and/or morbility. B cells play a key role in both the development and perpetuation of autoimmunity, since they produce autoantibodies but also function as antigen-presenting cells, and release immunomodulatory cytokines. Rituximab, an anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody that specifically depletes B cells, may be an effective treatment strategy for patients with autoimmune disorders. This article reviews data of the literature, showing that patients with autoimmune haematological diseases can respond to rituximab irrespective of age and number or type of prior treatments. These data suggest that rituximab provides an effective and well-tolerated treatment option for these conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wilma Barcellini
- U.O. Ematologia 2, Fondazione IRCCS Cà Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy.
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Dierickx D, Delannoy A, Saja K, Verhoef G, Provan D. Anti-CD20 monoclonal antibodies and their use in adult autoimmune hematological disorders. Am J Hematol 2011; 86:278-91. [PMID: 21328427 DOI: 10.1002/ajh.21939] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2010] [Revised: 11/15/2010] [Accepted: 11/16/2010] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Autoimmune hematological disorders encompass a broad group of hematological conditions characterized by the loss of self-tolerance to a variety of antigens. Despite good response to first-line therapy in the majority of patients, relapses are common, necessitating new and safe therapeutic options. The anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody rituximab has led to substantial improvement in the treatment of malignant and immune-mediated disorders involving B cells. Although experience with rituximab in immune-mediated hematological disorders is rarely supported by randomized trials, there is now substantial experience with rituximab suggesting that anti-CD20 therapy is an effective and well-tolerated alternative to immunosuppressive therapy in these disorders. However, caution is needed based on recent reports describing-sometimes severe-rituximab-related complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daan Dierickx
- Department of Hematology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.
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Collins PW, Percy CL. Advances in the understanding of acquired haemophilia A: implications for clinical practice. Br J Haematol 2009; 148:183-94. [PMID: 19814739 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2141.2009.07915.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Acquired haemophilia A is an auto-immune disease caused by an inhibitory antibody to factor VIII. Patients with an acquired factor VIII inhibitor are at risk of life- and limb-threatening bleeding until the inhibitor has been eradicated. Management relies on rapid and accurate diagnosis, control of bleeding episodes, investigation for a precipitating cause and eradication of the inhibitor by immunosuppression. Patients should always be managed jointly with a specialist centre even if they present without overt bleeding. Despite an extensive literature, few controlled data are available and management guidelines are predominantly based on case reports, retrospective cohorts and expert opinion. This paper reviews the current literature on incidence, pathogenesis, diagnosis, haemostatic therapy and inhibitor eradication strategies. Potential future developments are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter W Collins
- Arthur Bloom Haemophilia Centre, University Hospital of Wales and School of Medicine, Cardiff University, UK.
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