Long-term risks after splenectomy among 8,149 cancer-free American veterans: a cohort study with up to 27 years follow-up

Thromboembolic Events Following Splenectomy: Risk Factors, Prevention, Management and Outcomes

BACKGROUND

Thromboembolic events following splenectomy are not uncommon. However, the role of thromboprophylaxis and risk factors for thrombosis, as well as the clinical course and outcomes, are not well characterized.

METHODS

A retrospective review of individuals who underwent splenectomy between January 2006 and December 2015 in two university hospitals.

RESULTS

Overall, 297 patients underwent splenectomy [open splenectomy (n = 199), laparoscopic splenectomy (n = 98)]. Mechanical (thigh-length pneumatic compression stockings) and pharmacologic thromboprophylaxis (40 mg enoxaparin daily, starting 12 h after surgery until discharge) was provided for all patients. One hundred and sixteen patients (39%) also received an extended thromboprophylaxis course of enoxaparin for 2-4 weeks after discharge. Twenty-three patients (7.7%) experienced thrombotic complications following splenectomy, including 16 cases (5.4%) of portal-splenic mesenteric venous thrombosis (PSMVT), 5 (1.7%) pulmonary embolism and 2 (0.7%) deep vein thrombosis. Longer operative time (mean operative time of 405 vs. 273 min, P = 0.03) was independently associated with PSMVT. Post-splenectomy thrombocytosis was not associated with thrombosis (P = 0.41). The overall thrombosis rate was significantly lower in patients who received an extended thromboprophylaxis course following splenectomy (3.4 vs. 10.5%, P = 0.02). Complete resolution of thrombosis was observed in most cases (n = 20, 87.0%), with no recurrent thrombosis during a mean follow-up of 38 ± 25 months.

CONCLUSIONS

Thromboembolic complications, mainly PSMVT, are common following splenectomy. Longer operative time was associated with thrombosis. Significantly lower rates of thrombosis were found in patients who received an extended thromboprophylaxis course.

Splenectomy had no significant impact on lipid metabolism and atherogenesis in Apoe deficient mice fed on a severe atherogenic diet

BACKGROUND

For a long time, our major understanding of the spleen is to function as a blood filter for the removal of aged erythrocytes and circulating microorganisms. Splenectomy, therefore, has been widely performed in case of trauma and a variety of hematologic disorders. Although some studies have indicated an increased rate of developing hyperlipidemia and atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases in splenectomized patients, our recognition of the splenic regulation on lipid metabolism and atherogenesis is still lacking. Here we explored this issue in Apoe deficient (Apoe-/-) mice fed on an atherogenic diet containing 0.5% cholesterol and 20% fat.

METHODS

7-week-old male Apoe-/- mice were randomly divided into splenectomy group and sham operation group. After 1-week recovery from the surgery, mice were subjected to the atherogenic diet for the next 8 weeks.

RESULTS

The atherogenic diet induced a severe hypercholesterolemia (about 1500 mg/dl), steatohepatitis and accelerated atherogenesis in the Apoe-/- mice. Splenectomy, compared to sham operation, did not alter plasma lipid levels or lipoprotein profiles; it also did not alter hepatic or adipose lipid deposition. Meanwhile, splenectomy did not alter atherosclerotic plaque burden or composition; it also did not alter aortic gene expression associated with macrophage inflammatory responses.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data suggested that splenectomy had no significant impacts on lipid metabolism and atherogenesis in Apoe-/- mice fed on a severe atherogenic diet.

Transitioning patients with immune thrombocytopenia to second-line therapy: Challenges and best practices

In patients with immune thrombocytopenia who do not adequately respond to first-line therapy, there is no clear consensus on which second-line therapy to initiate and when. This situation leads to suboptimal approaches, including prolonged exposure to treatments that are not intended for long-term use (eg, corticosteroids) and overuse of off-label therapies (eg, rituximab) while approved, more efficacious options exist. These approaches may not only fail to address symptoms and burden of disease, but may also worsen health-related quality of life. A better understanding of available second-line treatments may ensure best use of therapeutic options and thereby optimize patient outcomes.

Synchronous Occurrence of Mycosis Fungoides, Diffuse Large B Cell Lymphoma and Acute Myeloid Leukemia

Patients with mycosis fungoides (MF), the most common subtype of primary cutaneous T-cell lymphoma, have an increased risk of developing secondary malignancies. We herein report two rare cases of MF concurring with diffuse large B cell lymphoma (B lymphoid lineage) and acute myeloid leukemia (myeloid lineage) in two otherwise healthy elderly patients. Potential etiologic factors, including the impact of the therapy-associated inflammatory response on the development of secondary tumors in patients with MF, are discussed. Further clinical, experimental and genetic studies are needed to elucidate possible physiopathogenic associations among the three concurrent malignancies occurring in the cases presented here.

Oxidized low-density lipoprotein in inflammation-driven thrombosis

Thrombosis is the defining feature of the most prevalent causes of cardiovascular mortality, such as myocardial infarction, stroke, and pulmonary artery embolism. Although platelet activation and activation of the plasmatic coagulation system are the hallmarks of thrombus formation, inflammatory processes and the cellular responses involved are increasingly being recognized as critical modulators of thrombosis. In the context of many chronic inflammatory diseases that are associated with a high thrombotic risk, oxidized lipoproteins represent a prominent sterile trigger of inflammation. Oxidized low-density lipoprotein and its components play a central role in the initiation and progression of atherosclerotic plaques, but also in other processes that lead to thrombotic events. Moreover, dying cells and microvesicles can be decorated with some of the same oxidized lipid components that are found on oxidized lipoproteins, and thereby similar mechanisms of thromboinflammation may also be active in venous thrombosis. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge on how oxidized lipoproteins and components thereof affect the cells and pathways involved in thrombosis.

Cannabinoids synergize with carfilzomib, reducing multiple myeloma cells viability and migration

Several studies showed a potential anti-tumor role for cannabinoids, by modulating cell signaling pathways involved in cancer cell proliferation, chemo-resistance and migration. Cannabidiol (CBD) was previously noted in multiple myeloma (MM), both alone and in synergy with the proteasome inhibitor bortezomib, to induce cell death. In other type of human cancers, the combination of CBD with Δ⁹-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) was found to act synergistically with other chemotherapeutic drugs suggesting their use in combination therapy. In the current study, we evaluated the effects of THC alone and in combination with CBD in MM cell lines. We found that CBD and THC, mainly in combination, were able to reduce cell viability by inducing autophagic-dependent necrosis. Moreover, we showed that the CBD-THC combination was able to reduce MM cells migration by down-regulating expression of the chemokine receptor CXCR4 and of the CD147 plasma membrane glycoprotein. Furthermore, since the immuno-proteasome is considered a new target in MM and also since carfilzomib (CFZ) is a new promising immuno-proteasome inhibitor that creates irreversible adducts with the β5i subunit of immuno-proteasome, we evaluated the effect of CBD and THC in regulating the expression of the β5i subunit and their effect in combination with CFZ. Herein, we also found that the CBD and THC combination is able to reduce expression of the β5i subunit as well as to act in synergy with CFZ to increase MM cell death and inhibits cell migration. In summary, these results proved that this combination exerts strong anti-myeloma activities.

Review of the Association between Splenectomy and Chronic Thromboembolic Pulmonary Hypertension

Recent evidence suggests that there may be a link between splenectomy and the later development of pulmonary hypertension, in particular World Health Organization group IV pulmonary hypertension (chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension). Epidemiological studies have demonstrated an odds ratio as high as 18 for the development of chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension after splenectomy in comparison with matched control subjects who have not undergone splenectomy. The mechanisms governing the association between removal of the spleen and the subsequent development of chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension remain incompletely understood; however, recent advances in understanding of coagulation homeostasis have shed some light on this association. Splenectomy increases the risk of venous thromboembolic disease, a necessary precursor of chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension, by generating a prothrombotic state. This prothrombotic state likely results from a reduction in the removal of circulating procoagulant factors from the bloodstream after splenectomy. Although much is to be learned, circulating microparticles have emerged as the most likely mediator for the development of thrombosis after splenectomy. Apparently because of a reduction in reticuloendothelial cell clearance, microparticle levels are elevated in patients after splenectomy. Elevated circulating microparticle levels have been linked to thromboembolism and pulmonary hypertension in a dose-dependent fashion. It is important for health care providers to be aware of the link between splenectomy and chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension. We are optimistic that clarification of the exact mechanisms that govern this association will yield clinical guidelines and potential treatments.

Efficacy and safety of thrombopoietin receptor agonists in children with chronic immune thrombocytopenia: a meta-analysis

Background and Aim

Thrombopoietin receptor agonists (TPO-RAs) have been shown to be safe and effective for adults with chronic immune thrombocytopenia (ITP). The aim of this meta-analysis is to assess the efficacy and safety of thrombopoietin receptor agonists for children with chronic ITP.

Materials and Methods

Clinical randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating the efficacy and safety of TPO-RAs in pediatric ITP patients published up to June 2017 were retrieved from PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Embase databases. Relevant data were extracted, and the Physiotherapy Evidence Database scale was used to assess the methodological quality. Stata/SE 12.0 was used to perform a meta-analysis.

Results

Seven RCTs were included, with 238 patients and 107 patients in the TPO-RA group and the control group, respectively. Assessing efficacy, better results were found in the TPO-RA group for the rate of overall platelet response, durable response, and rescue medication needed. Furthermore, the TPO-RA group yielded superior results in the incidence of clinically significant bleeding events but had a comparable result in the incidence of any bleeding events and severe bleeding events. No significant difference was found between the two groups in health-related quality of life and parental burden. Assessing safety, no significant difference was found between the two groups in the incidence of any adverse events and severe adverse events.

Conclusions

TPO-RAs are effective and safe agents for the treatment of chronic ITP in pediatric patients. Eltrombopag appears to be better than romiplostim in terms of the rate of rescue medication needed and clinically significant bleeding events.

Vaccination coverage and mortality after splenectomy: results from an Italian single-centre study

Splenectomy is a well-recognised risk factor for life-threatening overwhelming post-splenectomy infection (OPSI). To prevent OPSI, immunisations against encapsulated bacteria (S. pneumoniae, N. meningitidis, H. influenzae) and influenza virus are recommended. However, there is still a lack of uniformity and poor compliance with these recommendations. Following a local physicians' awareness campaign regarding the importance of vaccine prophylaxis of splenectomised patients, we aimed to register vaccination coverage, mortality and infection rates in all patients who underwent splenectomy at our hospital, over a six-year time span. Reasons for splenectomy, patients' compliance with vaccinations, mortality and infectious events were recorded. The reasons for splenectomy in the 216 identified patients (mean age 58.2 ± 14; M:F ratio 1.4:1) were haematologic disorders (38.8%), solid tumours (28.7%), traumatic rupture (22.7%) and other causes (9.7%). A total of 146 patients (67.6%) received at least one of the four vaccines. Overall, the mortality rate was significantly greater in unvaccinated compared to vaccinated patients (p < 0.001), although after the adjustment for the cause of splenectomy the statistical significance was lost (p = 0.085) due to the burden of solid tumour-related mortality. Among the 21 reported cases of OPSI, eight were fatal and five were potentially vaccine-preventable. Our results show that two-thirds of splenectomised patients comply with vaccine prophylaxis. Future interventional studies or ad hoc registries might overcome barriers to vaccination or intentional non-compliance.

Risk of venous thromboembolism in patients with splenic injury and splenectomy

The spleen is a crucial organ in humans. However, little is known about the association of venous thromboembolism (VTE) with splenic injury and splenectomy in trauma patients. The aim of this study was to determine the subsequent risk of VTE following splenic injury and splenectomy. A nationwide retrospective cohort study was conducted by analysing data from the National Health Insurance Research Database in Taiwan. We included 6,162 splenic injury patients (3,033 splenectomised and 3,129 nonsplenectomised patients) and 24,648 comparison patients who were selected by frequency match based on sex, age, and the index year during 2000–2006. All patients were followed until the occurrence of VTE, 31 December, 2011, death, or withdrawal from the insurance program. The age of patients with splenic injury was 41.93 ± 16.44 years. The incidence rates of VTE were 11.81, 8.46, and 5.21 per 10,000 person-years in the splenic injury patients with splen -ectomy, splenic injury patients without splenectomy, and comparison patients, respectively. Compared with the comparison cohort, splenic injury patients with splenectomy exhibited a 2.21-fold risk of VTE (95 % confidence interval [CI], 1.43–3.43), whereas those without splenectomy exhibited a 1.71-fold risk of VTE (95 % CI, 1.05–2.80). The overall incidence rate of VTE was 1.97-fold higher in the splenic injury cohort than the comparison cohort (95 % CI, 1.38–2.81). Although splenectomy increased the risk of VTE 1.35-fold compared with no splenectomy, the difference was not statistically significant (95 % CI, 0.74–2.45). These results may alert physicians and patients to the complications of splenic injury and splenectomy.

Proactive use of eltrombopag before the onset of clinical bleeding in two children with immune thrombocytopenia and lifestyle restrictions

Children with immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) are often managed using a watch‐and‐wait approach to avoid conventional treatment that may be poorly tolerated. However, in some patients, this approach may lead to lifestyle restrictions due to risk of injury‐related bleeding. Eltrombopag is a well‐tolerated new option that may help these children.

Splenectomy is an independent risk factor for poorer perioperative outcomes after cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy: an analysis of 936 procedures

BACKGROUND

There is a paucity of data on the impact of splenectomy on peri-operative outcomes after cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (CRS/HIPEC). We report the largest series to date which addresses this topic.

METHODS

Nine hundred and thirty six consecutive patients underwent CRS/HIPEC from 1996 to 2016 at a high-volume institution in Sydney, Australia. Of these, 418 (45%) underwent splenectomy. Peri-operative complications were graded according to the Clavien-Dindo Classification. The association of splenectomy with 19 peri-operative outcomes was assessed using univariate and multivariate analyses.

RESULTS

In-hospital mortality was 1.8%. Patients undergoing splenectomy had a higher disease burden (peritoneal cancer index ≥17) (71% vs. 22%, P<0.001) and underwent a longer operation (≥9 hours) (73% vs. 34%, P<0.001). Even after accounting for confounding factors, splenectomy was independently associated with an increased risk of grade III/IV morbidity [relative risk (RR), 1.94; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.29-2.91; P=0.01], infective complications (RR, 1.63; 95% CI, 1.09-2.44; P=0.018), pancreatic leak (RR, 5.2; 95% CI, 1.81-14.89, P=0.002) and intra-abdominal collection (RR, 1.86; 95% CI, 1.23-2.84, P=0.004). It was also an independent risk factor for long hospital stay (≥28 days) (RR, 1.98; 95% CI, 1.25-3.11; P=0.003). Splenectomy was not associated with in-hospital mortality (RR, 1.68; 95% CI, 0.32-9.32, P=0.556).

CONCLUSIONS

Splenectomy is an independent risk factor for poorer peri-operative outcomes. Minimizing the likelihood of inadvertent splenic injury through careful dissection and routine vaccination can improve outcomes.

Indications and outcome of splenectomy in hematologic disease

Splenectomy is part of the therapeutic arsenal for benign or malignant hematological disorders that constitute the main indication for elective splenectomy. With the development of minimally invasive approaches, and in particular, laparoscopy, as well as the advent of monoclonal antibody therapy, the indications and the outcomes of splenectomy for hematologic disease have changed in recent years. Nonetheless, splenectomy has its place in hemoglobinopathies and hemolytic diseases, improves thrombocytopenia in refractory immune thrombocytopenic purpura, can reverse sequelae linked to voluminous splenomegaly secondary to myelofibrosis, or can be used for diagnostic purposes or for splenomegaly in lymphoproliferative syndromes.

Postsplenectomy vaccination guideline adherence: Opportunities for improvement

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Patients undergoing splenectomy for trauma are at life-long risk for rapidly progressive septicemia. The purpose of this study was to investigate long-term patient understanding and follow-up with recommendations regarding their asplenia.

METHODS

Patients undergoing splenectomy for trauma January 2010-December 2014 were analyzed. Medical records were reviewed and telephone follow-up interviews were conducted in October-December 2015. Patients were asked a standard set of questions that included hospitalizations, awareness of infectious risks associated with asplenia, need for revaccination, and vaccines they had received since their index hospitalization.

FINDINGS

Two hundred forty-four patients underwent splenectomy during the study period. A total of 95 patients (39%) were included in the study. Thirty (32%) had been hospitalized since their trauma admission. Only 46% were aware of the risks for sepsis and the need to revaccinate. Only 7% reported having rapid access to antibiotics.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite uniform education prior to discharge, most patients undergoing splenectomy for trauma were unaware of the risks for sepsis and did not follow recommended guidelines for risk reduction.

IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE

Improvements that have direct implications for advanced practice included the need to refer for vaccination, educate regarding infection risks, and facilitate rapid access to antibiotic treatment.

Risk of cardiovascular events and pulmonary hypertension following splenectomy - a Danish population-based cohort study from 1996-2012

Splenectomized patients are at increased risk of cardiovascular events, but it remains unclear whether this is due to lack of the spleen or due to the underlying disease leading to splenectomy. We aimed to assess the risk of myocardial infarction, pulmonary hypertension, and stroke following splenectomy. We identified patients splenectomized in Denmark between 1996 and 2012. We constructed two comparison cohorts: an age- and sex-matched general population cohort and a disease-matched cohort based on the splenectomy-related underlying disease. We computed 5-year cumulative incidences and adjusted hazard ratios of myocardial infarction, pulmonary hypertension, and stroke for the three cohorts. The study included 5,306 splenectomized patients, 53,060 members of the general population, and 11,651 disease-matched patients. During the 5-year follow-up, 1.3% of splenectomized patients had a myocardial infarction versus 1.8% of the population cohort. The adjusted hazard ratio for myocardial infarction in splenectomized patients versus the population cohort was 1.24 (95% confidence interval: 1.01–1.52). The 5-year cumulative incidence of pulmonary hypertension was 0.4% among splenectomized subjects and 0.2% in the population cohort [adjusted hazard ratio 3.25 (95% confidence interval: 1.93–5.45)], while that of stroke was 3.3% among splenectomized patients versus 2.6% in the population cohort [adjusted hazard ratio 2.04 (95% confidence interval: 1.78–2.35)]. When comparing splenectomized subjects with the disease-matched cohort, only stroke risk was elevated, with 5-year risks of 3.0% and 2.3%, respectively [adjusted hazard ratio 1.56 (95% confidence interval: 1.26–1.92)]. In conclusion, splenectomized patients were at increased risk of stroke. Additionally, we found that underlying splenectomy-related diseases explained the increased risk of myocardial infarction and pulmonary hypertension following splenectomy.

Recommendations regarding splenectomy in hereditary hemolytic anemias

Hereditary hemolytic anemias are a group of disorders with a variety of causes, including red cell membrane defects, red blood cell enzyme disorders, congenital dyserythropoietic anemias, thalassemia syndromes and hemoglobinopathies. As damaged red blood cells passing through the red pulp of the spleen are removed by splenic macrophages, splenectomy is one possible therapeutic approach to the management of severely affected patients. However, except for hereditary spherocytosis for which the effectiveness of splenectomy has been well documented, the efficacy of splenectomy in other anemias within this group has yet to be determined and there are concerns regarding short- and long-term infectious and thrombotic complications. In light of the priorities identified by the European Hematology Association Roadmap we generated specific recommendations for each disorder, except thalassemia syndromes for which there are other, recent guidelines. Our recommendations are intended to enable clinicians to achieve better informed decisions on disease management by splenectomy, on the type of splenectomy and the possible consequences. As no randomized clinical trials, case control or cohort studies regarding splenectomy in these disorders were found in the literature, recommendations for each disease were based on expert opinion and were subsequently critically revised and modified by the Splenectomy in Rare Anemias Study Group, which includes hematologists caring for both adults and children.

Safety and efficacy of romiplostim in splenectomized and nonsplenectomized patients with primary immune thrombocytopenia

Primary immune thrombocytopenia is an autoimmune disorder characterized by increased platelet destruction and insufficient platelet production without another identified underlying disorder. Splenectomy may alter responsiveness to treatment and/or increase the risk of thrombosis, infection, and pulmonary hypertension. The analysis herein evaluated the safety and efficacy of the thrombopoietin receptor agonist romiplostim in splenectomized and nonsplenectomized adults with primary immune thrombocytopenia. Data were pooled across 13 completed clinical studies in adults with immune thrombocytopenia from 2002-2014. Adverse event rates were adjusted for time of exposure. Results were considered different when 95% confidence intervals were non-overlapping. Safety was analyzed for 1111 patients (395 splenectomized; 716 nonsplenectomized) who received romiplostim or control (placebo or standard of care). At baseline, splenectomized patients had a longer median duration of immune thrombocytopenia and a lower median platelet count, as well as a higher proportion with >3 prior immune thrombocytopenia treatments versus nonsplenectomized patients. In each treatment group, splenectomized patients used rescue medications more often than nonsplenectomized patients. Platelet response rates (≥50×10⁹/L) for romiplostim were 82% (310/376) for splenectomized and 91% (592/648) for nonsplenectomized patients (P<0.001 by Cochran-Mantel-Haenszel test). Platelet responses were stable over time in both subgroups. Exposure-adjusted adverse event rates were higher for control versus romiplostim for both splenectomized (1857 versus 1226 per 100 patient-years) and nonsplenectomized patients (1052 versus 852 per 100 patient-years). In conclusion, responses to romiplostim were seen in both splenectomized and nonsplenectomized patients, and romiplostim was not associated with an increase in the risk of adverse events in splenectomized patients. clinicaltrials.gov Identifier: 00111475(A)(B), 00117143, 00305435, 01143038, 00102323, 00102336, 00415532, 00603642, 00508820, 00907478, 00116688, and 00440037.

Characterization of human fibroblastic reticular cells as potential immunotherapeutic tools

Fibroblastic reticular cells (FRCs) are essential players during adaptive immune responses not only as a structural support for the encounter of antigen-presenting cells and naive T lymphocytes but also as a source of modulatory signals. However, little is known about this cell population in humans. To address the phenotypical and functional analysis of human FRCs here we established splenic (SP) and mesenteric lymph node (LN) CD45^-CD31^-CD90⁺podoplanin⁺ myofibroblastic cell cultures. They shared the phenotypical characteristics distinctive of FRCs, including the expression of immunomodulatory factors and peripheral tissue antigens. Nevertheless, human FRCs also showed particular features, some differing from mouse FRCs, like the lack of nitric oxide synthase (NOS2) expression after interferon (IFN)γstimulation. Interestingly, SP-FRCs expressed higher levels of interleukin (IL)-6, BMP4, CCL2, CXCL12 and Notch molecules, and strongly adapted their functional profile to lipopolysaccharide (LPS), polyinosinic:polycytidylic acid (Poly I:C) and IFNγ stimulation. In contrast, we found higher expression of transforming growth factor (TGF)β and Activin A in LN-FRCs that barely responded via Toll-Like Receptor (TLR)3 and constitutively expressed retinaldehyde dehydrogenase 1 enzyme, absent in SP-FRCs. This study reveals human FRCs can be valuable models to increase our knowledge about the physiology of human secondary lymphoid organs in health and disease and to explore the therapeutic options of FRCs.

A practical guide to the use of eltrombopag in children with chronic immune thrombocytopenia

INTRODUCTION

Pediatric immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) may be associated with significant burden on children and their parents/caregivers. Thrombopoietin (TPO) receptor agonists (RAs) have been used to treat adult patients with chronic ITP (cITP) for nearly a decade and following pediatric studies Eltrombopag has been recently approved for pediatric cITP in the United States and Europe. TPO-RA s may help reduce the risk of bleeding and the need for conventional ITP therapies.

REVIEW

In this review, the clinical data demonstrating the efficacy and safety of TPO-RAs in pediatric ITP are evaluated, key recommendations regarding safe administration of eltrombopag are provided, and potential future directions in management of pediatric ITP are discussed.

A Review of Gaucher Disease Pathophysiology, Clinical Presentation and Treatments

Gaucher disease (GD, ORPHA355) is a rare, autosomal recessive genetic disorder. It is caused by a deficiency of the lysosomal enzyme, glucocerebrosidase, which leads to an accumulation of its substrate, glucosylceramide, in macrophages. In the general population, its incidence is approximately 1/40,000 to 1/60,000 births, rising to 1/800 in Ashkenazi Jews. The main cause of the cytopenia, splenomegaly, hepatomegaly, and bone lesions associated with the disease is considered to be the infiltration of the bone marrow, spleen, and liver by Gaucher cells. Type-1 Gaucher disease, which affects the majority of patients (90% in Europe and USA, but less in other regions), is characterized by effects on the viscera, whereas types 2 and 3 are also associated with neurological impairment, either severe in type 2 or variable in type 3. A diagnosis of GD can be confirmed by demonstrating the deficiency of acid glucocerebrosidase activity in leukocytes. Mutations in the GBA1 gene should be identified as they may be of prognostic value in some cases. Patients with type-1 GD-but also carriers of GBA1 mutation-have been found to be predisposed to developing Parkinson's disease, and the risk of neoplasia associated with the disease is still subject to discussion. Disease-specific treatment consists of intravenous enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) using one of the currently available molecules (imiglucerase, velaglucerase, or taliglucerase). Orally administered inhibitors of glucosylceramide biosynthesis can also be used (miglustat or eliglustat).

Adherence to vaccination guidelines post splenectomy: A five year follow up study

Following a splenectomy patients are at increased risk of significant infections. In its most severe form, overwhelming post-splenectomy infection (OPSI) has a mortality rate of up to 80%. In this study we aim to establish the adherence to vaccination and antibiotic national guidelines in splenectomised patients. A retrospective study of 100 patients who underwent splenectomy (21 emergency, 79 elective), in two teaching hospitals was undertaken over a five-year period. Patients were followed up for five years. Hospital and GP records were reviewed for adherence to pre, intra and postoperative vaccination, thromboprophylaxis and antibiotic guidance. Eighty-six eligible patients (91.5%) received their Haemophilus influenzae B, meningococcal C and pneumococcus vaccinations peri-operatively. Eighty-one (86%) received post-operative antibiotics. Ninety-nine percent of patients received thromboprophylaxis treatment. Eighty-nine (95%) were treated with long-term antibiotic prophylaxis. Only 20 patients (23%) had an emergency supply of antibiotics. Ninety-five percent of patients were administered an annual influenza vaccination and 84% of eligible patients received a five-year pneumococcal booster vaccination. Improvement in the management of this patient cohort can be achieved by a multidisciplinary approach involving adherence to national guidelines, standardised trust protocols, patient information leaflets and advice detailing risk of infection, standardised GP letters and a splenectomy register to monitor and manage this vulnerable group of patients.

Laparoscopic Partial Splenectomy for Unknown Primary Cancer: A Stepwise Approach

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic partial splenectomy (LPS) for focal splenic lesions is technically demanding and carries risk of hemorrhage. Nevertheless, it can be a valuable option, particularly for children and adults in whom attempt at preservation of splenic immunologic function outweighs risk associated with organ preservation.

PATIENT

A 58-year-old man was diagnosed with a focal splenic lesion at the upper splenic pole on surveillance imaging following axillary lymph node metastasis for cancer of unknown primary origin (CUP). After an interval of 8 months, repeat FDG-PET showed increase in size and PET-avidity without any evidence of new lesions. Due to isolated site and history of CUP, the patient was considered for a LPS.

TECHNIQUE

With the patient in reversed modified French position, the upper pole splenic vessels were controlled and a well-defined area of ischemia encompassing the lesion identified. Under intermittent inflow occlusion and ultrasonography guidance, the parenchymal transection was performed. Total operative time was 180 min, estimated blood loss was 175 cc, the patient was discharged on postoperative day 2, and final pathology confirmed an Epstein-Barr virus associated inflammatory pseudotumor.1 ^, 2 CONCLUSION: Safe LPS requires systematic pre-operative assessment of hilar vascular anatomy and a stepwise approach to controlling the vessels intra-operatively. Anatomic parenchymal transection and intermitted vascular isolation for lesions close to the demarcation zone minimizes blood loss. Risk/benefit stratification of LPS may be beneficial in select patients only. Whether in patients with CUP LPS may aid in preserving innate and adaptive immunity with potential clinical, including oncologic, benefits will require further investigations.3 ^- 5.

Long-term complications of splenectomy in adult immune thrombocytopenia

The recent large decrease in splenectomy use for chronic immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) is partly due to still-unsolved questions about long-term safety. We performed the first single-center exposed/unexposed cohort study evaluating the long-term incidence of splenectomy complications in patients with primary ITP. Overall, 83 patients who underwent splenectomy more than 10 years ago (exposed) were matched with 83 nonsplenectomized patients (unexposed) on the date of ITP diagnosis ±5 years, age and gender. After a median follow-up of 192 months (range 0.5-528), 43 patients (52%) achieved overall response after splenectomy. Splenectomized patients experienced more venous thromboembolism (VTE) than controls (n = 13 vs n = 2, P = 0.005). On multivariate analysis, splenectomy was an independent risk factor of VTE (hazard ratio = 4.006, P = 0.032 [95% confidence interval: 1.13-14.21]). Splenectomized patients presented more severe infections on long-term follow-up: all required hospitalization, and 5/26 (19%) infections led to severe sepsis or septic shock and to death for 3 cases (none in controls). However, the incidence of malignancy was similar in both groups, as was cardiovascular risk, which appeared to be related more to ITP than splenectomy. Finally, splenectomy did not significantly decrease overall survival. Despite the risk of thrombosis and severe sepsis, splenectomy remains an effective and curative treatment for ITP.

Balancing Therapy with Thrombopoietin Receptor Agonists and Splenectomy in Refractory Immune Thrombocytopenic Purpura: A Case of Postsplenectomy Thrombocytosis Requiring Plateletpheresis

Immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) causes thrombocytopenia through the autoimmune destruction of platelets. Corticosteroids remain the first line of therapy, and traditionally splenectomy has been the second. While the availability of thrombopoietin receptor agonists (TPO-RAs) has expanded treatment options, there is little data for the ideal management of these agents in preparation for splenectomy. Thrombocytosis has been reported after splenectomy in patients treated with TPO-RA preoperatively, with one prior case requiring plateletpheresis for symptomatic thrombocytosis. We present a case report and review of the literature pertaining to this complication and provide recommendations for preventing postsplenectomy thrombocytosis in ITP patients on TPO-RAs.

Minimally Invasive Approach for Spleen-Preserving Distal Pancreatectomy: a Comparative Analysis of Postoperative Complication Between Splenic Vessel Conserving and Warshaw's Technique

BACKGROUND

Spleen-preserving distal pancreatectomy with Warshaw's technique (WT) was reported to have higher spleen-related complication. The aim of this study was to evaluate the postoperative complication between the splenic vessel-conserving technique (SVC) and the WT when they were performed by the minimally invasive approach.

METHODS

From January 2006 to June 2015, data of the patients who had laparoscopic or robotic-assisted spleen-preserving distal pancreatectomy for benign or borderline malignant tumors were retrospectively reviewed. Patients were divided into SVC and the WT group for comparison.

RESULTS

Of the 89 patients who had the spleen-preserving distal pancreatectomy, 63 were SVC, whereas 26 were WT. The CT scans showed that patients who had WT were found to have higher rate of splenic infarction (P < 0.001) and had significantly higher rate of collateral vessel formation at 1 year (P < 0.001). All the splenic infarctions were low grade and asymptomatic which resolved spontaneously. None of the patients with collateral formation experienced gastrointestinal bleeding. The postoperative complication of SVC and WT did not differ significantly.

CONCLUSION

SVC and WT were found to have comparable outcome. Both techniques can be used to achieve higher spleen-preserving rate.

Biomechanics of red blood cells in human spleen and consequences for physiology and disease

Red blood cells (RBCs) can be cleared from circulation when alterations in their size, shape, and deformability are detected. This function is modulated by the spleen-specific structure of the interendothelial slit (IES). Here, we present a unique physiological framework for development of prognostic markers in RBC diseases by quantifying biophysical limits for RBCs to pass through the IES, using computational simulations based on dissipative particle dynamics. The results show that the spleen selects RBCs for continued circulation based on their geometry, consistent with prior in vivo observations. A companion analysis provides critical bounds relating surface area and volume for healthy RBCs beyond which the RBCs fail the "physical fitness test" to pass through the IES, supporting independent experiments. Our results suggest that the spleen plays an important role in determining distributions of size and shape of healthy RBCs. Because mechanical retention of infected RBC impacts malaria pathogenesis, we studied key biophysical parameters for RBCs infected with Plasmodium falciparum as they cross the IES. In agreement with experimental results, surface area loss of an infected RBC is found to be a more important determinant of splenic retention than its membrane stiffness. The simulations provide insights into the effects of pressure gradient across the IES on RBC retention. By providing quantitative biophysical limits for RBCs to pass through the IES, the narrowest circulatory bottleneck in the spleen, our results offer a broad approach for developing quantitative markers for diseases such as hereditary spherocytosis, thalassemia, and malaria.

Biomechanics of red blood cells in human spleen and consequences for physiology and disease

Red blood cells (RBCs) can be cleared from circulation when alterations in their size, shape, and deformability are detected. This function is modulated by the spleen-specific structure of the interendothelial slit (IES). Here, we present a unique physiological framework for development of prognostic markers in RBC diseases by quantifying biophysical limits for RBCs to pass through the IES, using computational simulations based on dissipative particle dynamics. The results show that the spleen selects RBCs for continued circulation based on their geometry, consistent with prior in vivo observations. A companion analysis provides critical bounds relating surface area and volume for healthy RBCs beyond which the RBCs fail the "physical fitness test" to pass through the IES, supporting independent experiments. Our results suggest that the spleen plays an important role in determining distributions of size and shape of healthy RBCs. Because mechanical retention of infected RBC impacts malaria pathogenesis, we studied key biophysical parameters for RBCs infected with Plasmodium falciparum as they cross the IES. In agreement with experimental results, surface area loss of an infected RBC is found to be a more important determinant of splenic retention than its membrane stiffness. The simulations provide insights into the effects of pressure gradient across the IES on RBC retention. By providing quantitative biophysical limits for RBCs to pass through the IES, the narrowest circulatory bottleneck in the spleen, our results offer a broad approach for developing quantitative markers for diseases such as hereditary spherocytosis, thalassemia, and malaria.

Convergence in the Epidemiology and Pathogenesis of COPD and Pneumonia

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is one of the main causes of human mortalities globally after heart disease and stroke. There is increasing evidence of an aetiological association between COPD and pneumonia, the leading infectious cause of death globally in children under 5 years. In this review, we discuss the known risk factors of COPD that are also shared with pneumonia including smoking, air pollution, age and immune suppression. We review how lung pathology linked to a previous history of pneumonia may heighten susceptibility to the development of COPD in later life. Furthermore, we examine how specific aspects of COPD immunology could contribute to the manifestation of pneumonia. Based on the available evidence, a convergent relationship is becoming apparent with respect to the pathogenesis of COPD and pneumonia. This has implications for the management of both diseases, and the development of new interventions.

Laparoscopic splenic artery ligation for hypersplenism in cirrhosis: A case series

BACKGROUND:

Splenectomy for the treatment of hypersplenism in patients with cirrhosis (HIC) is related with complications. Laparoscopic splenic artery ligation (LSAL) may be an alternative treatment option.

AIMS:

To evaluate safety and feasibility of LSAL in the treatment of HIC.

PATIENTS AND METHODS:

Retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data of ten patients with HIC who were treated with LSAL from October 2012 to February 2015.

RESULTS:

The median (range) age was 33.2 (13-56) years and sex distribution was equal. The median (range) leukocyte counts (×10⁹/L) before, and at 3, 6 and 12 months after LSAL were 2.2 (0.8-8.2) and 5.65 (2.78-10.7), 4.7 (2.8-7.8) and 4.95 (3.4-7.7) respectively. The median (range) platelet counts (×10⁹/L) before and at 3, 6 and 12 months after LSAL were 25.5 (11-65) and 75 (39-289), 74 (32-184) and 76 (56-251) respectively. Following LSAL, there was a significant improvement in total leucocyte count, platelet count and Model for End-Stage Liver Disease (MELD) score (P < 0.05). Two patients (20%) developed intraoperative bleeding and required conversion; one of these two patients developed splenic cyst that required radiological intervention. Four patients (40%) had post ligation syndrome (PLS) that was managed conservatively. During a median (range) follow-up of 19.5 (5-29) months, one patient (10%) required splenectomy due to inadequate response.

CONCLUSION:

LSAL is a safe and feasible treatment option for the palliation of symptomatic HIC, however, further prospective trials are necessary for confirmation.

Transcription factor TLX1 controls retinoic acid signaling to ensure spleen development

The molecular mechanisms that underlie spleen development and congenital asplenia, a condition linked to increased risk of overwhelming infections, remain largely unknown. The transcription factor TLX1 controls cell fate specification and organ expansion during spleen development, and Tlx1 deletion causes asplenia in mice. Deregulation of TLX1 expression has recently been proposed in the pathogenesis of congenital asplenia in patients carrying mutations of the gene-encoding transcription factor SF-1. Herein, we have shown that TLX1-dependent regulation of retinoic acid (RA) metabolism is critical for spleen organogenesis. In a murine model, loss of Tlx1 during formation of the splenic anlage increased RA signaling by regulating several genes involved in RA metabolism. Uncontrolled RA activity resulted in premature differentiation of mesenchymal cells and reduced vasculogenesis of the splenic primordium. Pharmacological inhibition of RA signaling in Tlx1-deficient animals partially rescued the spleen defect. Finally, spleen growth was impaired in mice lacking either cytochrome P450 26B1 (Cyp26b1), which results in excess RA, or retinol dehydrogenase 10 (Rdh10), which results in RA deficiency. Together, these findings establish TLX1 as a critical regulator of RA metabolism and provide mechanistic insights into the molecular determinants of human congenital asplenia.

Second primary pancreatic ductal carcinoma in the remnant pancreas after pancreatectomy for pancreatic ductal carcinoma: High cumulative incidence rates at 5 years after pancreatectomy

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to determine the incidence rate and clinical features of second primary pancreatic ductal carcinoma (SPPDC) in the remnant pancreas after pancreatectomy for pancreatic ductal carcinoma (PDC).

METHODS

Data of patients undergoing R0 resection for PDC at a single high-volume center were reviewed. SPPDC was defined as a tumor in the remnant pancreas after R0 resection for PDC, and SPPDC met at least one of the following conditions: 1) the time interval between initial pancreatectomy and development of a new tumor was 3 years or more; 2) the new tumor was not located in contact with the pancreatic stump. We investigated the clinical features and treatment outcomes of patients with SPPDC.

RESULTS

This study included 130 patients who underwent surgical resection for PDC between 2005 and 2014. Six (4.6%) patients developed SPPDC. The cumulative 3- and 5-year incidence rates were 3.1% and 17.7%, respectively. Four patients underwent remnant pancreatectomy for SPPDC. They were diagnosed with the disease in stage IIA or higher and developed recurrence within 6 months after remnant pancreatectomy. One patient received carbon ion radiotherapy and survived 45 months. One patient refused treatment and died 19 months after the diagnosis of SPPDC.

CONCLUSIONS

The incidence rate of SPPDC is not negligible, and the cumulative 5-year incidence rate of SPPDC is markedly high. Post-operative surveillance of the remnant pancreas is critical for the early detection of SPPDC, even in long-term survivors after PDC resection.

Improved Splenic Function After Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplant for Sickle Cell Disease

BACKGROUND

Splenic dysfunction is a significant complication of sickle cell disease (SCD). Hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) is a proven cure for SCD; however, its long-term effect on splenic function is not well characterized.

PROCEDURE

We conducted a retrospective cohort study of pediatric patients who had HSCT for SCD at two transplant centers. (99m) Tc liver-spleen (LS) scans were blindly reviewed and classified as demonstrating absent, decreased, or normal splenic uptake.

RESULTS

Considering all engrafted nonsplenectomized Hb SS and Sβ(0) -thalassemia patients with LS scans available, at a median of 2.0 years post-HSCT (range 1.0-9.3 years) eight of 53 (15%) had normal, 40 of 53 (75%) decreased, and five of 53 (9%) absent splenic uptake. More patients had splenic uptake after HSCT: pre-HSCT 14/38 (37%) versus post-HSCT 34/38 (89%), P < 0.0001. Older age at HSCT was associated with worse splenic function post-HSCT (median age at HSCT for absent uptake 16.6 years vs. present uptake 8.0 years, P = 0.030). Extensive chronic GVHD was also more common in patients with absent splenic uptake compared to patients with present uptake (absent 40% vs. present 6%, P = 0.064).

CONCLUSIONS

HSCT significantly improves splenic function for most pediatric patients with SCD, but older patient age at time of HSCT and extensive chronic GVHD appear to be risk factors for poor post-HSCT splenic function.

Rituximab salvage therapy in adults with immune thrombocytopenia: retrospective study on efficacy and safety profiles

Splenectomy remains the preferred treatment for chronic immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) after corticosteroid failure, despite the risks of despite surgical complications and infection. The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy of and tolerance to rituximab through a retrospective analysis of 35 refractory/relapsing ITP patients treated from 2004 to 2013. The median age of subjects was 46 years (14-80). Rituximab was given at a weekly dose of 375 mg/m(2) for 4 weeks. Median time from diagnosis to first infusion was 17 months (1-362) and follow-up was 47 months (2-133). The overall response rates at 1 and 2 years after the first infusion were 47 and 38 %, with complete response rates of 24 and 25 %, respectively. Median duration of response was 38 months (1-123), with 37 % of patients maintaining a durable response (>1 year). Twenty-nine percent of patients had undergone splenectomy. A durable response after rituximab was more frequently observed in patients undergoing second-line therapy than those in third or later (83 versus 35 %, P = 0.01). Forty-four percent of patients experienced mild hypogammaglobulinaemia after rituximab, and no clinical infection occurred. To conclude, rituximab should be considered as an alternative treatment to splenectomy. Its efficacy and safety profile should lead us to choose this medical option therapy before surgery for ITP patients.

Myeloid PTEN deficiency impairs tumor-immune surveillance via immune-checkpoint inhibition

Tumor-host interaction is determined by constant immune surveillance, characterized by tumor infiltration of myeloid and lymphoid cells. A malfunctioning or diverted immune response promotes tumor growth and metastasis. Recent advances had been made, by treating of certain tumor types, such as melanoma, with T-cell checkpoint inhibitors. This highlights the importance of understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying the crosstalk between tumors and their environment, in particular myeloid and lymphoid cells. Our aim was to study the contribution of the myeloid PI3K/PTEN-signaling pathway in the regulation of tumor-immune surveillance in murine models of cancer. We made use of conditional PTEN-deficient mice, which exhibit sustained activation of the PI3K-signaling axis in a variety of myeloid cell subsets such as macrophages and dendritic cells (DCs). In colitis-associated colon cancer (CAC), mice deficient in myeloid PTEN showed a markedly higher tumor burden and decreased survival. We attributed this observation to the increased presence of immune-modulatory conventional CD8α(+) DCs in the spleen, whereas other relevant myeloid cell subsets were largely unaffected. Notably, we detected enhanced surface expression of PD-L1 and PD-L2 on these DCs. As a consequence, tumoricidal T-cell responses were hampered or redirected. Taken together, our findings indicated an unanticipated role for the PI3K/PTEN-signaling axis in the functional regulation of splenic antigen-presenting cells (APCs). Our data pointed at potential, indirect, tumoricidal effects of subclass-specific PI3K inhibitors, which are currently under clinical investigation for treatment of tumors, via myeloid cell activation.

Review of the Clinical and Economic Burden of Antibody-Mediated Rejection in Renal Transplant Recipients

Antibody-mediated rejection (AbMR) is a leading cause of late graft loss in kidney transplant recipients, accounting for up to 60% of late graft failures. AbMR manifests as two distinct phenotypes: the first occurs in the immediate post-transplant period in sensitized patients; the second occurs in the late post-transplant period and has been associated with non-adherence to immunosuppression. The present review summarizes the current treatment options for AbMR, its clinical and economic burden, and approaches for reducing the risk of AbMR. While AbMR is typically refractory to treatment with corticosteroids, there are numerous other approaches focused on removal, inhibition or neutralization of donor-specific antibodies, or inhibition of complement-mediated allograft damage. AbMR treatment is generally expensive with one US study reporting costs of USD 49,000-155,000 per episode. However, leaving AbMR untreated puts patients at high risk of capillaritis, microangiopathy, necrosis and graft failure, which may ultimately result in much greater costs associated with a return to dialysis. Given the barriers to treatment, which include the high cost and the fact that pharmacologic treatments are currently used off-label, prevention of AbMR is important, with improvement in patient adherence to immunosuppression a key strategic approach that may be worthy of further evaluation.

FUNDING

Astellas Pharma EMEA Limited.

Reasons for Inadequate Vaccination after Splenectomy

The aim of this study was to analyze the reasons why the guidelines for post-splenectomy vaccination are not being followed. Considering that vaccination reduces the risk of overwhelming post-splenectomy infection, it is important to determine the reasons for inadequate vaccination after splenectomy.

Our research was a qualitative study based on interviews with six surgeons, one general practitioner and three patients who underwent splenectomy, and on the review of patient’s medical charts and discharge summaries.

This study has shown that health care team and patients lack sufficient knowledge about postsplenectomy vaccination. In addition, the study has shown that splenectomy registers, medical bracelets and up-to-date vaccination cards still have not become part of our current practice.

Our study has shown that patient education and health care team education is crucial to follow the guidelines for post-splenectomy vaccination, which is similar to most other reports.

In order to increase the level of post-splenectomy vaccination, we need to upgrade the education of health care teams and patients. Moreover, we need to start using splenectomy registers, medical bracelets and up-to-date vaccination cards.

Eltrombopag for children with chronic immune thrombocytopenia (PETIT2): a randomised, multicentre, placebo-controlled trial

BACKGROUND

The thrombopoietin receptor agonist eltrombopag has been shown to be safe, tolerable, and effective for adults with chronic immune thrombocytopenia. We aimed to investigate the safety and efficacy of eltrombopag for children with chronic immune thrombocytopenia.

METHODS

PETIT2 was a two part, randomised, multicentre, placebo-controlled study done at 38 centres in 12 countries (Argentina, Czech Republic, Germany, Hong Kong, Israel, Italy, Russia, Spain, Taiwan, Thailand, UK, and USA). Paediatric patients aged 1-17 years who had chronic immune thrombocytopenia and platelet counts less than 30 × 10(9) per L were randomly assigned (2:1) to receive eltrombopag or placebo. We stratified patients by age into three cohorts (patients aged 12-17 years, 6-11 years, and 1-5 years) before randomly entering them into a 13 week, double-blind period. Randomisation was done by the GlaxoSmithKline Registration and Medication Ordering System and both patients and study personnel were masked to treatment assignments. Patients who were allocated eltrombopag received tablets (except for those aged 1-5 years who received an oral suspension formulation) once per day for 13 weeks. Starting doses for patients aged 6-17 were based on bodyweight, and ethnic origin and ranged between 50 mg/day and 25 mg/day (starting dose for patients aged 1-5 years was 1·2 mg/kg/day or 0·8 mg/kg/day for east Asian patients). Patients who completed the double-blind period entered a 24 week open-label treatment period in which all patients received eltrombopag at either the starting dose (if they were formerly on placebo) or their established dose. The primary outcome was the proportion of patients achieving platelet counts of at least 50 × 10(9) per L in the absence of rescue therapy for 6 or more weeks from weeks 5 to 12 of the double-blind period. The intention-to-treat population included in the efficacy assessment consisted of all patients who were randomly assigned to one of the treatment groups, and the safety population included all patients who received at least one dose of study drug. This trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, number NCT01520909.

FINDINGS

Beginning in March 15, 2012, 92 patients were enrolled, and the trial was completed on Jan 2, 2014. 63 patients were assigned to receive eltrombopag and 29 were assigned to receive placebo. In the double-blind period, three patients discontinued treatment because of adverse events: two patients in the eltrombopag group withdrew because of increased liver aminotransferases and one in the placebo group withdrew because of abdominal haemorrhage. 25 (40%) patients who received eltrombopag compared with one (3%) patient who received placebo achieved the primary outcome of platelet counts of at least 50 × 10(9) per L for 6 of the last 8 weeks of the double-blind period (odds ratio 18·0, 95% CI, 2·3-140·9; p=0·0004). Responses were similar in all cohorts (eltrombopag vs placebo: 39% vs 10% for patients aged 12-17 years, 42% vs 0% for patients aged 6-11 years, and 36% vs 0% for patients aged 1-5 years). Proportionately fewer patients who received eltrombopag (23 [37%] of 63 patients) had WHO grades 1-4 bleeding at the end of the double-blind period than did those who received placebo (16 [55%] of 29 patients); grades 2-4 bleeding were similar (three [5%] patients who received eltrombopag vs two [7%] patients who received placebo). During the 24-week open-label treatment period, 70 [80%] of 87 patients achieved platelet counts of 50 × 10(9) per L or more at least once. Adverse events that occurred more frequently with eltrombopag than with placebo included nasopharyngitis (11 [17%] patients), rhinitis (10 [16%] patients), upper respiratory tract infection (7 [11%] patients), and cough (7 [11%] patients). Serious adverse events occurred in five (8%) patients who received eltrombopag and four (14%) who received placebo. Safety was consistent between the open-label and double-blind periods. No deaths, malignancies, or thromboses occurred during the trial.

INTERPRETATION

Eltrombopag, which produced a sustained platelet response in 40% of patients with chronic immune thrombocytopenia, is a suitable therapeutic option for children with chronic symptomatic immune thrombocytopenia. We identified no new safety concerns and few patients discontinued treatment because of adverse events.

FUNDING

GlaxoSmithKline.

Splenectomy is associated with a higher risk for venous thromboembolism: A prospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

Thrombocytosis following splenectomy is a common occurrence. Whether this thrombocytosis leads to a higher risk for venous thromboembolism (VTE) remains unclear. This investigation aimed to determine if splenectomy increases the risk for VTE.

METHODS

This was a prospective study conducted in the SICU between 1/2011 and 11/2013 investigating the VTE risk in patients undergoing a splenectomy compared with those undergoing any other abdominal procedure.

RESULTS

In total 2503 patients were admitted to the SICU: 37 (2%) after a splenectomy and 638 (26%) after any other abdominal surgery. Splenectomy patients had a higher incidence of VTE compared to patients undergoing any other abdominal procedure (29.7% vs. 12.1%, p < 0.01). After adjustment, splenectomy was associated with a higher adjusted risk for VTE compared to the no-splenectomy group (AOR [95% CI]: 2.6 [1.2, 5.9], p = 0.02). Reactive thrombocytosis did not predict the development of VTE.

CONCLUSION

Splenectomy increases the risk for VTE, however reactive thrombocytosis is not associated with this higher incidence. Further investigations are required to characterize the pathophysiologic mechanisms of VTE development following splenectomy.

The efficacy of spleen-preserving distal pancreatectomy with or without splenic vessel preservation: a meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Spleen-preserving distal pancreatectomy can be performed with splenic vessel preservation (SPDP-SVP) or splenic vessel resection (SPDP-SVR). This meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the clinical outcomes of patients undergoing SPDP-SVP or SPDP-SVR.

METHOD

A systematic literature search of PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library was performed. The operative time, estimated blood loss, postoperative complications, pancreatic fistula (Grade B+C) rates, splenic infarction rates, gastric/perigastric varices rates and postoperative hospital stay were evaluated. RevMan 5.3 software was used to evaluate the differences between groups.

RESULTS

Nine studies involving 639 patients were included in this meta-analysis, of whom 402 underwent SPDP-SVP and 237 underwent SPDP-SVR. Patients who underwent SPDP-SVP had lower splenic infarction and gastric/perigastric varices rates. The operative time, estimated blood loss, postoperative complications, pancreatic fistula (Grade B+C) rates and postoperative hospital stays were comparable between these two groups.

CONCLUSIONS

SPDP-SVP and SPDP-SVR are both safe, feasible procedures for the management of benign or low-grade malignant pancreatic body or tail tumors. However, SPDP-SVR is related to higher incidence rates of early splenic ischemia and gastric/perigastric varices.