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Namineni N, Waldron C, Tormey C, Goshua G. Severe, Refractory Primary Warm Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia Requiring 90 Erythrocyte Transfusions. ANNALS OF INTERNAL MEDICINE. CLINICAL CASES 2024; 3:e231141. [PMID: 38725710 PMCID: PMC11081177 DOI: 10.7326/aimcc.2023.1141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/12/2024]
Abstract
A previously healthy 60-year-old man presented to the hospital with a hemoglobin of 3.5 g/dL. He was diagnosed with severe warm autoimmune hemolytic anemia (wAIHA) with reticulocytopenia on hospital day 1 that was not responsive to steroids, immune globulin, and rituximab. Over a 42-day hospital stay, the patient remained continuously transfusion-dependent with a ninety red cell unit requirement for his refractory disease. He was trialed on therapeutic plasma exchange before ultimately undergoing inpatient splenectomy that led to a response within hours. He remains in complete remission at six months of follow-up.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Christopher Tormey
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT
| | - George Goshua
- Section of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT
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Murakhovskaya I, Crivera C, Leon A, Alemao E, Anupindi VR, DeKoven M, Divino V, Lin I, Shu C, Ebrahim T. Healthcare resource utilization of patients with warm autoimmune hemolytic anemia initiating first line therapy of oral corticosteroids with or without rituximab. Ann Hematol 2024; 103:1139-1147. [PMID: 38296903 DOI: 10.1007/s00277-023-05613-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 02/02/2024]
Abstract
This retrospective cohort study described real-world treatment patterns and healthcare resource utilization (HCRU) of patients with warm autoimmune hemolytic anemia (wAIHA) initiating treatment with first-line (1L) oral corticosteroids (OCS) + rituximab (R) compared to 1L OCS. Patients with a wAIHA diagnosis code (D59.11) between 8/2020-3/2022 were identified using US pharmacy and medical claims databases. Patients initiating 1L OCS ± R were identified (date of initiation = 'index date') with a 1-year pre-index period and a variable (minimum 1-year) follow-up period. The final sample comprised 77 1L OCS + R patients and 400 1L OCS patients (~ 60% female, mean age > 64 years). Over the 1-year follow-up, HCRU was higher in the OCS + R cohort with higher mean number of physician office visits (22.9 and 14.4; p < 0.01), including hematology/oncology office visits, and higher utilization of rescue therapy (59.7% and 33.3%; p < 0.01), driven by higher use of injectable corticosteroids. Patients in OCS + R and OCS groups completed 1L therapy after a similar mean duration of 103.5 and 134.6 days, respectively (p = 0.24). In the majority of patients, second-line (2L) therapy was initiated at a similar timepoint: 66.2% OCS + R and 72.0% OCS cohorts (p = 0.31) initiated 2L in a mean of 218.3 and 203.2 days (p = 0.76) after the end of 1L treatment, respectively. The addition of rituximab in 1L did not extend the remission period, with most patients in both cohorts initiating 2L therapy within less than 1 year of completing 1L treatment. 1L OCS + R patients also had substantial HCRU burden. More effective novel therapies are needed to address the high unmet need in wAIHA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irina Murakhovskaya
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine/Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, NY, USA.
| | - Concetta Crivera
- Janssen Pharmaceutical Companies of Johnson & Johnson, Horsham, PA, USA
| | - Ann Leon
- Janssen Pharmaceutical Companies of Johnson & Johnson, Horsham, PA, USA
| | - Evo Alemao
- Janssen Pharmaceutical Companies of Johnson & Johnson, Horsham, PA, USA
| | | | | | | | - Iris Lin
- Janssen Pharmaceutical Companies of Johnson & Johnson, Horsham, PA, USA
| | - Cathye Shu
- Janssen Pharmaceutical Companies of Johnson & Johnson, Horsham, PA, USA
| | - Tarek Ebrahim
- Janssen Pharmaceutical Companies of Johnson & Johnson, Horsham, PA, USA
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Cáceres Medina JL, González Torres LA, Gamboa-Meza A, Cantu-Rodriguez OG. Rituximab as a First-line Treatment for Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia in Multicentric Castleman's Disease. Cureus 2024; 16:e59080. [PMID: 38800203 PMCID: PMC11128291 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.59080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Castleman´s disease (CD) is a rare lymphoproliferative disorder. Concurrent autoimmune disease and CD are uncommon, but even more so, comorbid CD and autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA). To the best of our knowledge, this case represents the first successful AIHA and multicentric CD (MCD) treatment using rituximab as first-line treatment. We present the case of a 53-year-old woman with a 10-year history of plasma cell variant CD who arrived at the emergency department with signs and symptoms of anemia. On admission, we made a preliminary diagnosis of hemolytic anemia and initiated immunosuppressive therapy with rituximab and steroids. After seven days, the patient recovered according to clinical and laboratory parameters, and we discharged her early. We portray a rare occurrence of CD and AIHA successfully treated with rituximab and steroid therapy, which makes our case unique.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jose L Cáceres Medina
- Internal Medicine, Hospital Universitario Dr. José Eleuterio González, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Monterrey, MEX
| | - Luis A González Torres
- Internal Medicine, Hospital Universitario Dr. José Eleuterio González, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Monterrey, MEX
| | - Alan Gamboa-Meza
- Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine/Internal Medicine, Hospital Universitario Dr. José Eleuterio González, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Monterrey, MEX
| | - Olga G Cantu-Rodriguez
- Hematology, Hospital Universitario Dr. José Eleuterio González, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Monterrey, MEX
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Datta SS, Berentsen S. Management of autoimmune haemolytic anaemia in low-to-middle income countries: current challenges and the way forward. THE LANCET REGIONAL HEALTH. SOUTHEAST ASIA 2024; 23:100343. [PMID: 38601175 PMCID: PMC11004394 DOI: 10.1016/j.lansea.2023.100343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2023] [Revised: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 04/12/2024]
Abstract
Autoimmune haemolytic anaemia (AIHA) is a common term for several disorders that differ from one another in terms of aetiology, pathogenesis, clinical features, and treatment. Therapy is becoming increasingly differentiated and evidence-based, and several new established and investigational therapeutic approaches have appeared during recent years. While this development has resulted in therapeutic improvements, it also carries increased medical and financial requirements for optimal diagnosis, subgrouping, and individualization of therapy, including the use of more advanced laboratory tests and expensive drugs. In this brief Viewpoint review, we first summarize the diagnostic workup of AIHA subgroups and the respective therapies that are currently considered optimal. We then compare these principles with real-world data from India, the world's largest nation by population and a typical low-to-middle income country. We identify major deficiencies and limitations in general and laboratory resources, real-life diagnostic procedures, and therapeutic practices. Incomplete diagnostic workup, overuse of corticosteroids, lack of access to more specific treatments, and poor follow-up of patients are the rule more than exceptions. Although it may not seem realistic to resolve all challenges, we try to outline some ways towards an improved management of patients with AIHA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suvro Sankha Datta
- Tata Medical Centre, Department of Transfusion Medicine, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - Sigbjørn Berentsen
- Department of Research and Innovation, Haugesund Hospital, Helse Fonna Hospital Trust, Haugesund, Norway
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Kuter DJ, Piatek C, Röth A, Siddiqui A, Numerof RP, Dummer W. Fostamatinib for warm antibody autoimmune hemolytic anemia: Phase 3, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, global study (FORWARD). Am J Hematol 2024; 99:79-87. [PMID: 37929318 DOI: 10.1002/ajh.27144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2023] [Revised: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023]
Abstract
Warm antibody autoimmune hemolytic anemia (wAIHA) is characterized by hemolysis and symptomatic anemia with no approved treatment options. Fostamatinib is an oral spleen tyrosine kinase inhibitor approved in the US and Europe for treatment of adults with chronic immune thrombocytopenia. In this phase 3 study, patients with an insufficient response to ≥1 prior wAIHA treatment were randomized to fostamatinib or placebo. The primary endpoint was the proportion of patients to achieve a durable hemoglobin (Hgb) response (Hgb ≥10 g/dL and increase from baseline of ≥2 g/dL on 3 consecutive visits) during the 24-week treatment period. Ninety patients were randomized, 45 to each arm. Of the fostamatinib-treated patients, 35.6% achieved a durable Hgb response versus 26.7% on placebo (p = .398). A post hoc analysis revealed a large placebo response in Eastern European patients. Significantly more patients on fostamatinib from North America, Australia and Western Europe exhibited a durable Hgb response compared to placebo (36% vs. 10.7%, p = .030). After censoring for Hgb values impacted by steroid rescue received during screening and excluding 2 placebo patients found to likely not have wAIHA, a reanalysis demonstrated a difference in durable Hgb response between fostamatinib and placebo (15/45 [33.3%] vs. 6/43 [14.0%], p = .0395). At least 1 AE was reported in 42 (93.3%) and 40 (88.9%) patients receiving fostamatinib and placebo, respectively. The most common AEs in the fostamatinib group were diarrhea (26.7%), hypertension (24.4%), and fatigue (15.6%). In this study, fostamatinib demonstrated a clinically meaningful benefit for patients in Western regions, and no new safety signals were identified.
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Affiliation(s)
- David J Kuter
- Department of Hematology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Caroline Piatek
- Division of Hematology, University of Southern California Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Alexander Röth
- Department of Hematology and Stem Cell Transplantation, West German Cancer Center, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Asif Siddiqui
- Department of Development, Rigel Pharmaceuticals, Inc., South San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Robert P Numerof
- Department of Development, Rigel Pharmaceuticals, Inc., South San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Wolfgang Dummer
- Department of Development, Rigel Pharmaceuticals, Inc., South San Francisco, California, USA
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Hoffmann J, Schliesser G, Neubauer A. Abatacept as salvage therapy for life-threatening refractory autoimmune hemolytic anemia: a case report. Hematology 2023; 28:2208010. [PMID: 37133319 DOI: 10.1080/16078454.2023.2208010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA) can be life-threatening, if hemoglobin (Hb) levels continue to decline after established treatments with glucocorticoids, rituximab, intravenous immunoglobulins, and plasmapheresis. Impaired regulatory T cells (Treg) are proposed to alleviate AIHA development through decreased binding of CTLA-4 to antigen-presenting cells. Abatacept is a fusion protein with a CTLA-4 domain and is approved for use in rheumatoid arthritis. It mimics the immunosuppressive CTLA-4 effect of Treg. Thus, application of abatacept in refractory AIHA might be reasonable. A 54-year-old woman with known AIHA was admitted to our clinic due to therapy-refractory hemoglobin decrease to 4.0 g/dl. Previously, multiple courses of glucocorticoids, rituximab, azathioprine, mycophenolate mofetil, cyclophosphamide, bortezomib, and a splenectomy failed to stop or stabilize hemoglobin levels and hemolysis. A new immunosuppressive therapy with cyclosporine was initiated and erythropoiesis was stimulated with darbepoetin alfa. Again, therapy failed even though we tried to support immunosuppressive therapy by reducing the amount of pathogenic antibody through plasmapheresis. We stopped the treatment with cyclosporine and applied abatacept instead. After seven days hemoglobin stabilized at 4.3 g/dl and no further red blood cells transfusions were necessary. About one month later hemolysis aggravated again and azathioprine was added to the ongoing abatacept treatment. Finally, the combination of abatacept and azathioprine led to a long-lasting increase of the Hb level above 11 g/dl six months later. Abatacept can be applied to overcome therapy refractory autoimmune hemolytic anemia but should be combined with an additional immunosuppressive medication such as azathioprine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joerg Hoffmann
- Department of Hematology, Oncology and Immunology, Philipps University Marburg, University Hospital Giessen and Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | | | - Andreas Neubauer
- Department of Hematology, Oncology and Immunology, Philipps University Marburg, University Hospital Giessen and Marburg, Marburg, Germany
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Zhang Z, Hu Q, Yang C, Chen M, Han B. Sirolimus is effective for primary refractory/relapsed warm autoimmune haemolytic anaemia/Evans syndrome: a retrospective single-center study. Ann Med 2023; 55:2282180. [PMID: 37967535 PMCID: PMC10653746 DOI: 10.1080/07853890.2023.2282180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 11/17/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Some patients with warm autoimmune haemolytic anaemia (wAIHA) or Evans syndrome (ES) have no response to glucocorticoid or relapse. Recent studies found that sirolimus was effective in autoimmune cytopenia with a low relapse rate. METHODS Data from patients with refractory/relapsed wAIHA and ES in Peking Union Medical College Hospital from July 2016 to May 2022 who had been treated with sirolimus for at least 6 months and followed up for at least 12 months were collected retrospectively. Baseline and follow-up clinical data were recorded and the rate of complete response (CR), partial response (PR) at different time points, adverse events, relapse, outcomes, and factors that may affect the efficacy and relapse were analyzed. RESULTS There were 44 patients enrolled, with 9 (20.5%) males and a median age of 44 (range: 18-86) years. 37 (84.1%) patients were diagnosed as wAIHA, and 7 (15.9%) as ES. Patients were treated with sirolimus for a median of 23 (range: 6-80) months and followed up for a median of 25 (range: 12-80) months. 35 (79.5%) patients responded to sirolimus, and 25 (56.8%) patients achieved an optimal response of CR. Mucositis (11.4%), infection (9.1%), and alanine aminotransferase elevation (9.1%) were the most common adverse events. 5/35 patients (14.3%) relapsed at a median of 19 (range: 15-50) months. Patients with a higher sirolimus plasma trough concentration had a higher overall response (OR) and CR rate (p = 0.009, 0.011, respectively). At the time of enrolment, patients were divided into two subgroups that relapsed or refractory to glucocorticoid, and the former had poorer relapse-free survival (p = 0.032) than the other group. CONCLUSION Sirolimus is effective for patients with primary refractory/relapsed wAIHA and ES, with a low relapse rate and mild side effects. Patients with a higher sirolimus plasma trough concentration had a higher OR and CR rate, and patients who relapsed to glucocorticoid treatment had poorer relapse-free survival than those who were refractory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhuxin Zhang
- Department of Hematology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital (PUMCH), Chinese Academy of Medical Science, Beijing, China
| | - Qinglin Hu
- Department of Hematology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital (PUMCH), Chinese Academy of Medical Science, Beijing, China
| | - Chen Yang
- Department of Hematology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital (PUMCH), Chinese Academy of Medical Science, Beijing, China
| | - Miao Chen
- Department of Hematology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital (PUMCH), Chinese Academy of Medical Science, Beijing, China
| | - Bing Han
- Department of Hematology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital (PUMCH), Chinese Academy of Medical Science, Beijing, China
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Alqam A, Zakhour J, Karam W, Maldonado G, Reddy PS. Rare Loxoscelism-Associated IgG Coombs-Positive Hemolytic Anemia Treated Successfully With Systemic Corticosteroids. Cureus 2023; 15:e47424. [PMID: 38021570 PMCID: PMC10658755 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.47424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/21/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Loxoscelism-associated hemolytic anemia is a rare but critical complication of brown recluse spider bites. It may lead to various systemic manifestations, including jaundice, dark urine, and anemia-related symptoms, in addition to general loxoscelism symptoms such as skin lesions, fever, myalgia, nausea, and vomiting. Prompt diagnosis is crucial and requires recognizing typical laboratory findings such as low hemoglobin, elevated lactate dehydrogenase, reduced haptoglobin levels, and possibly a positive direct antiglobulin test. There is no definitive guideline for the treatment of loxoscelism-associated hemolytic anemia. we report a case of a 32-year-old female who developed severe Coombs-positive autoimmune hemolytic anemia following a brown recluse spider bite, with an improvement in hemoglobin levels and hemolysis indices after the administration of systemic corticosteroids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anas Alqam
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Kansas School of Medicine-Wichita, Wichita, USA
| | - Joud Zakhour
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Kansas School of Medicine-Wichita, Wichita, USA
| | - Wissam Karam
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Kansas School of Medicine-Wichita, Wichita, USA
| | - Gerson Maldonado
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Kansas School of Medicine-Wichita, Wichita, USA
| | - Pavan S Reddy
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, University of Kansas School of Medicine-Wichita, Wichita, USA
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Mulder FVM, Evers D, de Haas M, Cruijsen MJ, Bernelot Moens SJ, Barcellini W, Fattizzo B, Vos JMI. Severe autoimmune hemolytic anemia; epidemiology, clinical management, outcomes and knowledge gaps. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1228142. [PMID: 37795092 PMCID: PMC10545865 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1228142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA) is an acquired hemolytic disorder, mediated by auto-antibodies, and has a variable clinical course ranging from fully compensated low grade hemolysis to severe life-threatening cases. The rarity, heterogeneity and incomplete understanding of severe AIHA complicate the recognition and management of severe cases. In this review, we describe how severe AIHA can be defined and what is currently known of the severity and outcome of AIHA. There are no validated predictors for severe clinical course, but certain risk factors for poor outcomes (hospitalisation, transfusion need and mortality) can aid in recognizing severe cases. Some serological subtypes of AIHA (warm AIHA with complement positive DAT, mixed, atypical) are associated with lower hemoglobin levels, higher transfusion need and mortality. Currently, there is no evidence-based therapeutic approach for severe AIHA. We provide a general approach for the management of severe AIHA patients, incorporating monitoring, supportive measures and therapeutic options based on expert opinion. In cases where steroids fail, there is a lack of rapidly effective therapeutic options. In this era, numerous novel therapies are emerging for AIHA, including novel complement inhibitors, such as sutimlimab. Their potential in severe AIHA is discussed. Future research efforts are needed to gain a clearer picture of severe AIHA and develop prediction models for severe disease course. It is crucial to incorporate not only clinical characteristics but also biomarkers that are associated with pathophysiological differences and severity, to enhance the accuracy of prediction models and facilitate the selection of the optimal therapeutic approach. Future clinical trials should prioritize the inclusion of severe AIHA patients, particularly in the quest for rapidly acting novel agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Femke V. M. Mulder
- Sanquin Research and Landsteiner Laboratory, Translational Immunohematology, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Department of Hematology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Dorothea Evers
- Department of Hematology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Masja de Haas
- Sanquin Research and Landsteiner Laboratory, Translational Immunohematology, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Department of Hematology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
- Department of Immunohematology Diagnostics, Sanquin Diagnostic Services, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | | | - Sophie J. Bernelot Moens
- Department of Hematology and Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Wilma Barcellini
- Department of Hematology, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Bruno Fattizzo
- Department of Hematology, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Josephine M. I. Vos
- Department of Immunohematology Diagnostics, Sanquin Diagnostic Services, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Department of Hematology and Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
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Zhang X, Gao BX, Guo CY, Su T. A 71-year-old male with a life-threatening recurrence of hemolytic anemia, thrombocytopenia, and acute kidney injury after pembrolizumab therapy: a case report. BMC Geriatr 2023; 23:478. [PMID: 37553570 PMCID: PMC10410872 DOI: 10.1186/s12877-023-04181-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2022] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/10/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have revolutionized cancer treatment. However, their use has been restricted in patients with preexisting autoimmune diseases due to concerns about increased risk of immune-related adverse events (irAEs). CASE PRESENTATION We present a case of a patient with stage IV lung adenocarcinoma and a history of complement-mediated autoimmune hemolytic anemia in remission. After receiving a single dose of pembrolizumab, the patient experienced life-threatening recurrent hemolytic anemia, de novo thrombocytopenia, diarrhea, myocarditis, and acute kidney injury. Laboratory tests confirmed the diagnosis of Evan's syndrome, with positive PAIgG and direct antiglobulin test. Treatment with intravenous methylprednisolone at a dose of 2 mg/kg resulted in a favorable response, with resolution of symptoms and rapid recovery of kidney function. The probable cause of pre-renal hypoperfusion (evidenced by a BUN-to-creatinine ratio of 48.1) leading to acute tubular injury was attributed to pembrolizumab-induced diarrhea. CONCLUSIONS This case illustrates a life-threatening recurrence of complement-mediated autoimmune hemolytic anemia induced by ICIs. Clinicians should carefully consider the expected efficacy and potential toxicity before initiating ICIs therapy in patients with preexisting autoimmune diseases. Additionally, the occurrence of acute kidney injury during ICIs therapy adds complexity and requires careful differential diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Zhang
- Renal Division, Department of Medicine, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, 100034, People's Republic of China
- Institute of Nephrology, Peking University, No.8 Xishuku Street, Beijing, Xicheng District, 100034, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Renal Disease, Ministry of Health of China, Beijing, 100034, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of CKD Prevention and Treatment, Ministry of Education of China, Beijing, 100034, People's Republic of China
- Research Units of Diagnosis and Treatment of Immune-mediated Kidney Diseases Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, 100034, Beijing, PR China
| | - Bi-Xia Gao
- Renal Division, Department of Medicine, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, 100034, People's Republic of China
- Institute of Nephrology, Peking University, No.8 Xishuku Street, Beijing, Xicheng District, 100034, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Renal Disease, Ministry of Health of China, Beijing, 100034, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of CKD Prevention and Treatment, Ministry of Education of China, Beijing, 100034, People's Republic of China
- Research Units of Diagnosis and Treatment of Immune-mediated Kidney Diseases Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, 100034, Beijing, PR China
| | - Cui-Yan Guo
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, 100034, China
| | - Tao Su
- Renal Division, Department of Medicine, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, 100034, People's Republic of China.
- Institute of Nephrology, Peking University, No.8 Xishuku Street, Beijing, Xicheng District, 100034, People's Republic of China.
- Key Laboratory of Renal Disease, Ministry of Health of China, Beijing, 100034, People's Republic of China.
- Key Laboratory of CKD Prevention and Treatment, Ministry of Education of China, Beijing, 100034, People's Republic of China.
- Research Units of Diagnosis and Treatment of Immune-mediated Kidney Diseases Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, 100034, Beijing, PR China.
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Smith EC, Kahwash N, Piran S. Management of Mixed Warm/Cold Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia: A Case Report and Review of Current Literature. Case Rep Hematol 2023; 2023:1381861. [PMID: 37529087 PMCID: PMC10390258 DOI: 10.1155/2023/1381861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2023] [Revised: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 08/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Mixed warm/cold autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA) is a rare diagnostic entity with limited therapeutic options. Previous literature has described the diagnostic difficulty in this pathology and the limited response rates to corticosteroids. Furthermore, there is limited evidence regarding the use of rituximab in this condition. Methods Alongside our case report, we conducted a scoping review of case reports/case series describing mixed AIHA, their treatment, and clinical outcomes since 2000. Inclusion criteria included a confirmed diagnosis of mixed AIHA (confirmed warm antibodies and cold agglutinins based on DAT). Case Summary/Results. We present a case of mixed AIHA in an 83-year-old female presenting with extensive, bilateral pulmonary embolisms and left renal vein thrombosis. The patient underwent extensive workup with no identifiable provoking etiology. Initial treatment involved prednisone therapy was transitioned to rituximab upon diagnosis of mixed AIHA. The patient demonstrated a mixed response with stable hemoglobin and transfusion independence; however, with persistently elevated hemolytic indices following completion of rituximab treatment. Our literature review identified 16 articles; two were excluded for unavailable clinical details. The most commonly associated conditions included autoimmune conditions (n = 5, 26%) and lymphoproliferative disorders (n = 3, 12%). The most common treatment involved corticosteroids; seven studies involved the use of rituximab. Conclusion Mixed AIHA represents a complex diagnosis and optimal management is not well established. Consistent with our case, recent literature suggests a promising response to rituximab and a limited response to steroid treatment. Given the limited literature, additional studies are required to elucidate optimal management of this unique pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elliot C. Smith
- Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Trillium Health Partners, Etobicoke, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Siavash Piran
- Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Trillium Health Partners, Etobicoke, Ontario, Canada
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Cavallaro F, Barcellini W, Fattizzo B. Antibody based therapeutics for autoimmune hemolytic anemia. Expert Opin Biol Ther 2023; 23:1227-1237. [PMID: 37874225 DOI: 10.1080/14712598.2023.2274912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/25/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA) treatment has been revolutionized by the introduction of target therapies, mainly monoclonal antibodies (MoAbs). AREAS COVERED The anti-CD20 rituximab, which targets Ab production by B-cells, induces 80% of response in warm-type AIHA (wAIHA) and 50-60% in cold agglutinin disease (CAD). Other B-cell targeting MoAbs including ianalumab, povetacicept, and obexelimab are under active study. The anti-CD38 MoAb daratumumab has been used in several reports to target long-lived plasma-cells responsible for AIHA relapse, being effective even in multi-refractory cases. Anti-complement MoAbs will soon change the treatment paradigm in CAD; the anti-C1s sutimlimab rapidly increased Hb in more than 80% of the cases. Finally, MoAbs inhibiting the neonatal Fc receptor (FcRn), such as nipocalimab, can reduce the half-life of the pathogenic autoAbs, representing a promising treatment for wAIHA. EXPERT OPINION MoAbs offer the potential to improve efficacy by reducing toxicity. However, there is a huge need for clinical trials exploring response duration rather than short-term efficacy. Complement inhibitors and anti-FcRns do not abrogate autoAb production and are being developed as long-term therapies. Thus, the combination of B-cell/plasma cell targeting drugs deserves to be explored. On the other hand, their rapid efficacy should be exploited for the acute AIHA phase.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Cavallaro
- Hematology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Wilma Barcellini
- Hematology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Bruno Fattizzo
- Hematology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
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13
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Cennamo M, Sirocchi D, Giudici C, Giagnacovo M, Petracco G, Ferrario D, Garganigo S, Papa A, Veniani E, Squizzato A, Del Vecchio L, Patriarca C, Partenope M, Modena P. A Peculiar CLL Case with Complex Chromosome 6 Rearrangements and Refinement of All Breakpoints at the Gene Level by Genomic Array: A Case Report. J Clin Med 2023; 12:4110. [PMID: 37373803 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12124110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2023] [Revised: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 06/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), the most common leukemia in Western countries, is a mature B-cell chronic lymphoproliferative disorder characterized by the accumulation of neoplastic CD5+ B lymphocytes, functionally incompetent and usually monoclonal in origin, in bone marrow, lymph nodes and blood. Diagnosis occurs predominantly in elderly patients, with a median age reported between 67 and 72 years. CLL has a heterogeneous clinical course, which can vary from indolent to, less frequently, aggressive forms. Early-stage asymptomatic CLL patients do not require immediate therapeutic intervention, but only observation; treatment is necessary for patients with advanced disease or when "active disease" is observed. The most frequent autoimmune cytopenia (AIC) is autoimmune haemolytic anaemia (AHIA). The main mechanisms underlying the appearance of AIC in CLL are not fully elucidated, the predisposition of patients with CLL to suffering autoimmune complications is variable and autoimmune cytopenia can precede, be concurrent, or follow the diagnosis of CLL. CASE PRESENTATION A 74-year-old man was admitted to the emergency room following the finding of severe macrocytic anaemia during blood tests performed that same day, in particular the patient showed a profound asthenia dating back several months. The anamnesis was silent and the patient was not taking any medications. The blood examination showed an extremely high White Blood Cell count and findings of AIHA in CLL-type mature B-cell lymphoproliferative neoplasia. Genetic investigations: Conventional karyotyping was performed and it obtained a trisomy 8 and an unbalanced translocation between the short arm of chromosome 6 and the long arm of chromosome 11, concurrent with interstitial deletions in chromosomes 6q and 11q that could not be defined in detail. Molecular cytogenetics (FISH) analyses revealed Ataxia Telangiectasia Mutated (ATM) monoallelic deletion (with loss of ATM on derivative chromosome 11) and retained signals for TP53, 13q14 and centromere 12 FISH probes. TP53 and IGHV were not mutated. Array-CGH confirmed trisomy of the entire chromosome 8 and allowed us to resolve in detail the nature of the unbalanced translocation, revealing multiple regions of genomic losses on chromosomes 6 and 11. DISCUSSION The present case report is an unusual CLL case with complex karyotype and refinement of all breakpoints at the gene level by the genomic array. From a genetic point of view, the case under study presented several peculiarities. CONCLUSIONS We report the genetic findings of a CLL patient with abrupt disease onset, so far responding properly to treatments despite the presence of distinct genetic adverse traits including ATM deletion, complex karyotype and chromosome 6q chromoanagenesis event. Our report confirms that interphase FISH alone is not able to provide an overview of the whole genomic landscape in selected CLL cases and that additional techniques are required to reach an appropriate cytogenetic stratification of patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michele Cennamo
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, University of Naples "Federico II", 80131 Naples, Italy
- Clinical Pathology and Microbiology Unit, Laboratory Analysis, ASST Lariana, Hospital Sant'Anna, 22100 Como, Italy
| | - Davide Sirocchi
- General Medicine Unit, ASST Lariana, Hospital Sant'Anna, 22100 Como, Italy
| | - Carolina Giudici
- Genetics Unit, ASST Lariana, Hospital Sant'Anna, 22100 Como, Italy
| | | | - Guido Petracco
- Pathological Unit, ASST Lariana, Hospital Sant'Anna, 22100 Como, Italy
| | - Daniela Ferrario
- Pathological Unit, ASST Lariana, Hospital Sant'Anna, 22100 Como, Italy
| | - Simona Garganigo
- Clinical Pathology and Microbiology Unit, Laboratory Analysis, ASST Lariana, Hospital Sant'Anna, 22100 Como, Italy
| | - Angela Papa
- Clinical Pathology and Microbiology Unit, Laboratory Analysis, ASST Lariana, Hospital Sant'Anna, 22100 Como, Italy
| | - Emanuela Veniani
- Clinical Pathology and Microbiology Unit, Laboratory Analysis, ASST Lariana, Hospital Sant'Anna, 22100 Como, Italy
| | - Alessandro Squizzato
- General Medicine Unit, ASST Lariana, Hospital Sant'Anna, 22100 Como, Italy
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Research Centre on Thromboembolic Disorders and Antithrombotic Therapies, University of Insubria, 21110 Varese, Italy
| | - Lucia Del Vecchio
- Department of Nephrology and Dialysis, ASST Lariana, Hospital Sant'Anna, 22100 Como, Italy
| | - Carlo Patriarca
- Pathological Unit, ASST Lariana, Hospital Sant'Anna, 22100 Como, Italy
| | - Michelarcangelo Partenope
- Clinical Pathology and Microbiology Unit, Laboratory Analysis, ASST Lariana, Hospital Sant'Anna, 22100 Como, Italy
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14
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Argüello Marina M, López Rubio M, Castilla García L. [Autoimmune haemolytic anaemia]. Med Clin (Barc) 2023; 160:30-38. [PMID: 36334945 DOI: 10.1016/j.medcli.2022.07.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2022] [Revised: 07/28/2022] [Accepted: 07/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Autoimmune haemolytic anaemias (AIHA) are acquired haematological disorders caused by increased peripheral erythrocyte destruction mediated by autoantibodies against erythrocyte antigens. They classified according to aetiology into primary and secondary, and according to the type of antibody and reaction temperature into AIHA due to warm antibodies (w-AIHA) and AIHA due to cold antibodies (c-AIHA). The mainstay of management in w-AIHA remains glucocorticoid therapy, and the early addition of rituximab has shown good results in recent studies. Primary c-AIHA is mainly treated with rituximab, alone or in combination with chemotherapy. New drugs such as Syk inhibitors, anti-FcRn Ig and complement inhibitors are in advanced development and will expand the therapeutic arsenal, especially in refractory or relapsed cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Argüello Marina
- Servicio de Hematología y Hemoterapia, Hospital Universitario Príncipe de Asturias, Alcalá de Henares, Madrid, España.
| | - Montserrat López Rubio
- Servicio de Hematología y Hemoterapia, Hospital Universitario Príncipe de Asturias, Alcalá de Henares, Madrid, España
| | - Lucía Castilla García
- Servicio de Hematología y Hemoterapia, Hospital Universitario Príncipe de Asturias, Alcalá de Henares, Madrid, España
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15
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Berentsen S, Fattizzo B, Barcellini W. The choice of new treatments in autoimmune hemolytic anemia: how to pick from the basket? Front Immunol 2023; 14:1180509. [PMID: 37168855 PMCID: PMC10165002 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1180509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/13/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA) is defined by increased erythrocyte turnover mediated by autoimmune mechanisms. While corticosteroids remain first-line therapy in most cases of warm-antibody AIHA, cold agglutinin disease is treated by targeting the underlying clonal B-cell proliferation or the classical complement activation pathway. Several new established or investigational drugs and treatment regimens have appeared during the last 1-2 decades, resulting in an improvement of therapy options but also raising challenges on how to select the best treatment in individual patients. In severe warm-antibody AIHA, there is evidence for the upfront addition of rituximab to prednisolone in the first line. Novel agents targeting B-cells, extravascular hemolysis, or removing IgG will offer further options in the acute and relapsed/refractory settings. In cold agglutinin disease, the development of complement inhibitors and B-cell targeting agents makes it possible to individualize therapy, based on the disease profile and patient characteristics. For most AIHAs, the optimal treatment remains to be found, and there is still a need for more evidence-based therapies. Therefore, prospective clinical trials should be encouraged.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sigbjørn Berentsen
- Department of Research and Innovation, Haugesund Hospital, Helse Fonna Hospital Trust, Haugesund, Norway
- *Correspondence: Sigbjørn Berentsen,
| | - Bruno Fattizzo
- Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, and Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Wilma Barcellini
- Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
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16
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Hematologic and Oncologic Emergencies. Crit Care Nurs Q 2023; 46:100-113. [DOI: 10.1097/cnq.0000000000000440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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17
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Kuter DJ. Warm autoimmune hemolytic anemia and the best treatment strategies. HEMATOLOGY. AMERICAN SOCIETY OF HEMATOLOGY. EDUCATION PROGRAM 2022; 2022:105-113. [PMID: 36485114 PMCID: PMC9821065 DOI: 10.1182/hematology.2022000405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Warm autoimmune hemolytic anemia (wAIHA) is characterized by evidence of red blood cell (RBC) hemolysis and a direct antiglobulin test positive for IgG and sometimes complement. While varying with the extent of the compensatory increase in RBC production, symptoms of anemia predominate, as does jaundice, the latter often exacerbated by concurrent Gilbert's syndrome. Initial treatment with corticosteroids is highly effective, with over 85% of patients responding but with less than one-third maintaining that response upon weaning. Subsequent rituximab administration in those failing corticosteroids provides complete remission in over 75% of patients and may be long-lasting. Over 50% of patients failing rituximab respond to erythropoiesis-stimulating agents or immunosuppressive agents. Splenectomy is best deferred if possible but does offer long-term remission in over two-thirds of patients. A number of new treatments for wAIHA (fostamatinib, rilzabrutinib, and FcRn inhibitors) show promise. A treatment algorithm for wAIHA is proposed to avoid the excessive use of corticosteroids.
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Affiliation(s)
- David J. Kuter
- Correspondence David J. Kuter, Hematology Division, Massachusetts General Hospital, Ste 118, Rm 110, Zero Emerson Pl, Boston, MA 02114; e-mail:
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18
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Fu R, Yu H. [How I diagnose and treat autoimmune hemolytic anemia]. ZHONGHUA XUE YE XUE ZA ZHI = ZHONGHUA XUEYEXUE ZAZHI 2022; 43:910-915. [PMID: 36709181 PMCID: PMC9808870 DOI: 10.3760/cma.j.issn.0253-2727.2022.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- R Fu
- Department of Hematology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin 300052, China
| | - H Yu
- Department of Hematology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin 300052, China
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19
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Huang HE, Lin KM, Lin JC, Lin YT, He HR, Wang YW, Yu SF, Chen JF, Cheng TT. Danazol in Refractory Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia or Immune Thrombocytopenia: A Case Series Report and Literature Review. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2022; 15:1377. [PMID: 36355549 PMCID: PMC9692819 DOI: 10.3390/ph15111377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2022] [Revised: 11/03/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 09/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Danazol is a treatment option for autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA) and immune thrombocytopenia (ITP). Three patients with AIHA and eight patients with ITP between 2008 and 2022 were enrolled in the Rheumatology Outpatient Clinic of Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kaohsiung. Those patients were refractory or intolerant to conventional therapy and were treated with danazol. All the patients received an initial dose of danazol (200-400 mg). The observation period was 6 months. Three patients (100%) with AIHA and six (75%) with ITP achieved treatment response after 6 months of danazol therapy. The dose of glucocorticoid for responders could be reduced to ≤5 mg/day of prednisolone, and the immunosuppressants, except hydroxychloroquine and azathioprine for systemic lupus erythematosus, could be discontinued. Adverse events were acne in two (18.2%) patients and transient dose-related liver function impairment in one (9.1%) patient in the current series. Danazol therapy appears to be a favorable alternative for refractory AIHA and ITP by altering the erythrocyte membrane to resist osmotic lysis and protecting platelets against complement-mediated lysis. In this report, we also performed a literature review and searched the PubMed/Cochrane Library for articles published from 1984 to January 2022 on danazol therapy for patients with AIHA and ITP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hsu-En Huang
- Division of Rheumatology, Allergy and Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine, Chiayi Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chiayi 613, Taiwan
| | - Ko-Ming Lin
- Division of Rheumatology, Allergy and Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine, Chiayi Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chiayi 613, Taiwan
| | - Jing-Chi Lin
- Division of Rheumatology, Allergy and Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine, Chiayi Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chiayi 613, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Ting Lin
- Division of Rheumatology, Allergy and Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan
| | - Hsiao-Ru He
- Division of Rheumatology, Allergy and Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Wei Wang
- Division of Rheumatology, Allergy and Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan
| | - Shan-Fu Yu
- Division of Rheumatology, Allergy and Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine, Chiayi Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chiayi 613, Taiwan
- School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan
| | - Jia-Feng Chen
- Division of Rheumatology, Allergy and Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan
- School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan
| | - Tien-Tsai Cheng
- Division of Rheumatology, Allergy and Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan
- School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan
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20
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Ehrlich S, Wichmann C, Spiekermann K. [Autoimmune haemolytic anemias]. Dtsch Med Wochenschr 2022; 147:1243-1250. [PMID: 36126922 DOI: 10.1055/a-1767-8281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
Autoimmune haemolytic anemia (AIHA) is defined as the immune-mediated destruction of red blood cells. In most cases, antibodies that target surface antigens on erythrocytes lead to their premature degradation in the spleen or, less commonly, in the liver. The term includes a heterogenous group of diseases, which differ largely in pathophysiology and treatment. The two most common entities are warm AIHA and cold AIHA. Diagnostic testing involves the analysis of haemolytic markers like lactate dehydrogenase, haptoglobin and unconjugated bilirubin as well as a hemoglobin and reticulocytes. In case of a haemolytic anemia, further testing like a blood smear and a direct antiglobulin test should follow. As diagnostic testing and treatment of AIHA are complex, affected patients should always be referred to a hematologist.In warm AIHA, mainly IgG autoantibodies bind to their antigen on the erythrocyte surface at body temperature, leading to their premature destruction in the spleen. First line treatment options include the administration of steroids which mitigate the destruction of red blood cells by macrophages in the spleen. In contrast, IgM autoantibodies in cold AIHA lead to intravasal agglutination of erythrocytes and complement activation. The IgM antibodies have their highest affinity below body temperature which is why patients experience symptoms mainly in cold-exposed body areas. Although the IgM antibodies dissolve at body temperature, the complement-loaded erythrocytes are destroyed in the liver. Therapeutic options include protection from cold and immunosuppressive agents or complement inhibition.
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21
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Fatone MC, Cirasino L. Practical therapy for primary autoimmune hemolytic anemia in adults. Clin Exp Med 2022:10.1007/s10238-022-00869-2. [PMID: 35980482 DOI: 10.1007/s10238-022-00869-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM Autoimmune hemolytic anemias (AIHA) constitute a rare and heterogeneous group of diseases whose therapy differs according to the type of antibody involved in the genesis of the disease and the existence or not of an identified cause. With the aim of providing a practical guide for the therapy of AIHA, we summarize the emergency therapy and general measures habitually used in all forms of AIHA, as well as the specific treatment of the most frequent primary forms of AIHA: primary warm AIHA and AIHA from cold agglutinin disease (AIHA from CAD). We discuss the dependence of the treatment of the secondary forms on their underlying causes and the changes in the treatment of the primary forms in recent years. METHODS We examined the options available for the treatment of primary warm AIHA and AIHA from CAD. RESULTS We found many differences and only one similarity in their treatment. DISCUSSION The differences, particularly due to the non-responsiveness of AIHA from CAD to many treatments useful for primary warm AIHA, such as steroids, splenectomy and immunosuppressive agents, must be considered in the face of each, single case of AIHA. Preliminary identification of the type of antibody involved in the genesis of the disease and careful exclusion of a secondary form are particularly important. Rituximab plays a central role in the treatment of primary warm AIHA and AIHA from CAD.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lorenzo Cirasino
- UO di Medicina, Ospedale di Ostuni, via Villafranca SN, Ostuni, BR, Italy.
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22
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Abu Kar S, Kaur A. Evans Syndrome in the Context of Incomplete Systemic Lupus Erythematosus. Cureus 2022; 14:e25795. [PMID: 35836439 PMCID: PMC9273191 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.25795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Evans syndrome is an autoimmune disorder characterized by the simultaneous or sequential occurrence of autoimmune hemolytic anemia and idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) with or without neutropenia. It can occur idiopathically or secondary to autoimmune or malignant processes. We are presenting a case of ITP with concurrent chronic hemolytic anemia and positive markers for systemic lupus erythematosus with no prior diagnosis of any rheumatological disorder.
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23
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Kuter DJ, Rogers KA, Boxer MA, Choi M, Agajanian R, Arnold DM, Broome CM, Field JJ, Murakhovskaya I, Numerof R, Tong S. Fostamatinib for the treatment of warm antibody autoimmune hemolytic anemia: Phase 2, multicenter, open-label study. Am J Hematol 2022; 97:691-699. [PMID: 35179251 PMCID: PMC9313871 DOI: 10.1002/ajh.26508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2021] [Revised: 02/11/2022] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Patients with relapsed warm antibody autoimmune hemolytic anemia (wAIHA) have limited treatment options. Fostamatinib is a potent, orally administered spleen tyrosine kinase inhibitor approved in the United States and Europe for the treatment of adults with chronic immune thrombocytopenia (ITP). This phase 2 study evaluated the response to fostamatinib, administered at 150 mg BID orally with or without food in adults with wAIHA and active hemolysis with hemoglobin (Hgb) <10 g/dL who had failed at least one prior treatment. Hemoglobin levels and safety assessments were performed at visits every 2 weeks. The primary endpoint was Hgb >10 g/dL with an increase of ≥2 g/dL from baseline by week 24 without rescue therapy or red blood cell transfusion. Eleven of 24 (46%) patients achieved the primary endpoint. Increases in median Hgb were detected at week 2 and sustained over time. Median lactate dehydrogenase levels and reticulocyte counts generally declined over time with little change in median haptoglobin levels. The most common adverse events (AEs) were diarrhea (42%), fatigue (42%), hypertension (27%), dizziness (27%), and insomnia (23%). AEs were manageable and consistent with the fostamatinib safety database of over 3900 patients across multiple diseases (rheumatoid arthritis, B-cell lymphoma, COVID-19, and ITP). No new safety signals were detected. Fostamatinib may be a promising therapeutic option for wAIHA. A randomized, double-blind, phase 3 study is nearing completion.
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Affiliation(s)
- David J. Kuter
- Division of Hematology Massachusetts General Hospital Boston Massachusetts USA
| | - Kerry A. Rogers
- Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine The Ohio State University Columbus Ohio USA
| | - Michael A. Boxer
- Division of Hematology‐Oncology Arizona Oncology Tucson Arizona USA
| | - Michael Choi
- Moores Cancer Center University of California San Diego La Jolla California USA
| | - Richy Agajanian
- Division of Hematology‐Oncology The Oncology Institute of Hope and Innovation Downey California USA
| | - Donald M. Arnold
- Department of Medicine, Michael G. DeGroote School of Medicine McMaster University Hamilton Ontario Canada
| | - Catherine M. Broome
- Lombardi Cancer Center, Division of Hematology MedStar Georgetown University Hospital Washington District of Columbia USA
| | - Joshua J. Field
- Blood Center of Wisconsin Medical College of Wisconsin Milwaukee Wisconsin USA
| | - Irina Murakhovskaya
- Department of Medicine (Hematology) Albert Einstein College of Medicine Bronx New York USA
| | - Robert Numerof
- Development and Medical Affairs Rigel Pharmaceuticals, Inc South San Francisco California USA
| | - Sandra Tong
- Development and Medical Affairs Rigel Pharmaceuticals, Inc South San Francisco California USA
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24
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Yohannan B, Chan KH, Sridhar A, Idowu M. Warm autoimmune haemolytic anaemia seen in association with primary sclerosing cholangitis in the setting of Klebsiella pneumoniae bacteraemia. BMJ Case Rep 2022; 15:e248339. [PMID: 35606025 PMCID: PMC9174818 DOI: 10.1136/bcr-2021-248339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Warm autoimmune haemolytic anaemia mediated by warm agglutinins is a rare and heterogeneous disease which can be idiopathic or secondary to an underlying disease. Primary sclerosing cholangitis is a chronic autoimmune cholangiopathy that is very rarely associated with haemolytic anaemia. Infections can also act as triggers for immune haemolytic anaemia. Here, we report a case of a woman in her 50s with a history of primary sclerosing cholangitis and a positive direct antiglobulin test with no evidence of haemolysis who developed overt warm autoimmune haemolytic anaemia in the setting of cholangitis and Klebsiella pneumoniae bacteraemia. She was treated conservatively with appropriate antibiotics and cautious red blood cell transfusion with complete resolution of haemolysis; immunosuppression was avoided given sepsis on presentation. This case highlights a rare association of warm immune haemolytic anaemia in the setting of K. pneumoniae bacteraemia and the role of a tailored treatment approach to treat this heterogeneous disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Binoy Yohannan
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas McGovern Medical School, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Kok Hoe Chan
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas McGovern Medical School, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Arthi Sridhar
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas McGovern Medical School, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Modupe Idowu
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas McGovern Medical School, Houston, Texas, USA
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25
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Fattizzo B, Cantoni S, Giannotta JA, Bandiera L, Zavaglia R, Bortolotti M, Barcellini W. Efficacy and safety of cyclosporine A treatment in autoimmune cytopenias: the experience of two Italian reference centers. Ther Adv Hematol 2022; 13:20406207221097780. [PMID: 35585968 PMCID: PMC9109490 DOI: 10.1177/20406207221097780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2021] [Accepted: 04/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) and autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA) show
good responses to frontline steroids. About two-third of cases relapse and
require second-line treatment, including rituximab, mainly effective in
AIHA, and thrombopoietin-receptor agonists (TPO-RAs) in ITP, while the use
of splenectomy progressively decreased due to concerns for
infectious/thrombotic complications. For those failing second line,
immunosuppressants may be considered. Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of cyclosporine treatment
in patients with ITP and AIHA. Design: In this retrospective study, we evaluated the efficacy and safety of
cyclosporine A (CyA) in ITP (N = 29) and AIHA
(N = 10) patients followed at two reference centers in
Milan, Italy. Methods: Responses were classified as partial [Hb > 10 or at least 2 g/dl increase
from baseline, platelets (PLT) > 30 × 109/l with at least
doubling from baseline] and complete (Hb > 12 g/dl or
PLT > 100 × 109/l) and evaluated at 3, 6, and 12 months.
Treatment emergent adverse events were also registered. Results: The median time from diagnosis to CyA was 35 months (3–293), and patients had
required a median of 4 (1–8) previous therapy lines. Median duration of CyA
was 28 (2–140) months and responses were achieved in 86% of ITP and 50% of
AIHA subjects. Responders could reduce or discontinue concomitant treatment
and resolved PLT fluctuations on TPO-RA. CyA was generally well tolerated,
and only two serious infectious complications in elderly patients on
concomitant steroids suggesting caution in this patient population. Conclusion: CyA may be advisable in ITP, which is not well controlled under TPO-RA, and
in AIHA failing rituximab, particularly if ineligible in clinical trial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruno Fattizzo
- Hematology, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico and University of Milan, via F. Sforza 35, 20100 Milan, Italy
| | - Silvia Cantoni
- Hematology Unit, Hematology & Oncology Department, Niguarda Cancer Center, ASST Ospedale Niguarda, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Laura Bandiera
- Pathology Unit, Hematology & Oncology Department, Niguarda Cancer Center, ASST Ospedale Niguarda, Milan, Italy
| | - Rachele Zavaglia
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncologyilan, University of Milan, Italy
| | - Marta Bortolotti
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncologyilan, University of Milan, Italy
| | - Wilma Barcellini
- Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico and University of Milan, Milan, Italy
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Calhoun B, Moore A, Dickey A, Shoemaker DM. Systemic loxoscelism induced warm autoimmune hemolytic anemia: clinical series and review. Hematology 2022; 27:543-554. [PMID: 35544675 DOI: 10.1080/16078454.2022.2065086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Describe the development of warm autoimmune hemolytic anemia warm (AIHA) secondary to a brown recluse spider (Loxosceles reclusa) bite is known as systemic loxoscelism; and review epidemiology, clinical manifestations, diagnostic work-up, pathophysiology, and treatment options associated with warm AIHA secondary to systemic loxoscelism. METHODS Cases series of two cases of warm AIHA due to systemic loxoscelism and a review of the current literature: epidemiology, clinical manifestations, diagnostic work-up, pathophysiology, and treatment options associated with warm AIHA secondary to systemic loxoscelism. RESULTS Presented here are two cases of warm AIHA due to systemic loxoscelism. Each patient was generally healthy appearing and presented with symptomatic anemia in the setting of brown recluse spider bites. Both patients were eventually found to have warm AIHA. Upon recognition of the diagnosis, the patients were started on corticosteroids and aggressive intravenous fluid hydration. In addition, they received transfusions of packed red blood cells. Their clinical courses improved, and they recovered to eventually be discharged home. CONCLUSION Envenomation by a brown recluse spider, Loxosceles reclusa, can result in systemic loxoscelism which can cause warm AIHA. The diagnosis of warm AIHA is confirmed by the direct antiglobulin/Coomb's test. Warm AIHA can be a life-threatening disease process. Hemodynamic support with intravenous fluids and RBC transfusion is the initial step in the management of these patients. Corticosteroids are the mainstay of current management. Second line treatments include rituximab. Rarely patients require splenectomy for refractory disease. Corticosteroids should be tapered over a three-month period.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brandon Calhoun
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, MO, USA
| | - Andrew Moore
- SEHealth Cancer Center, SEHealth, Cape Girardeau, MO, USA
| | - Andrew Dickey
- SEHealth Cancer Center, SEHealth, Cape Girardeau, MO, USA
| | - D Matthew Shoemaker
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, MO, USA
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27
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Development of New Drugs for Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:pharmaceutics14051035. [PMID: 35631621 PMCID: PMC9147507 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14051035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2022] [Revised: 04/27/2022] [Accepted: 05/05/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA) is a rare disorder characterized by the autoantibody-mediated destruction of red blood cells, and treatments for it still remain challenging. Traditional first-line immunosuppressive therapy, which includes corticosteroids and rituximab, is associated with adverse effects as well as treatment failures, and relapses are common. Subsequent lines of therapy are associated with higher rates of toxicity, and some patients remain refractory to currently available treatments. Novel therapies have become promising for this vulnerable population. In this review, we will discuss the mechanism of action, existing data, and ongoing clinical trials of current novel therapies for AIHA, including B-cell-directed therapy, phagocytosis inhibition, plasma cell-directed therapy, and complement inhibition.
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28
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Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia in Children: Laboratory Investigation, Disease Associations, and Treatment Strategies. J Pediatr Hematol Oncol 2022; 44:71-78. [PMID: 35235549 DOI: 10.1097/mph.0000000000002438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2021] [Accepted: 01/25/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Autoimmune hemolytic anemia is a relatively uncommon pediatric clinical condition. As such, the evaluation and management of these cases can be challenging for even the most seasoned pediatrician. In this review, the 3 major forms of autoimmune hemolytic anemia in children will be discussed: warm autoimmune hemolytic anemia, cold agglutinin disease, and paroxysmal cold hemoglobinuria. After a general description of the laboratory approach to these entities, the pathophysiology of these disease processes, including important disease associations, will be described, and treatment strategies will be discussed. This will provide the reader with a rational approach to identifying and managing pediatric patients with these uncommon autoimmune conditions.
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29
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Hwang SR, Saliba AN, Wolanskyj-Spinner AP. Immunotherapy-associated Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia. Hematol Oncol Clin North Am 2022; 36:365-380. [PMID: 35339260 DOI: 10.1016/j.hoc.2021.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Over the past decade, the role of immunotherapy treatment in cancer has expanded; specifically, indications for immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) have multiplied and are used as first-line therapy. ICIs include cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated protein 4 and programmed cell death protein 1 inhibitors, as monotherapies or in combination. Autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA) has emerged as a rare yet serious immune-related adverse event in ICI use. This review describes diagnosis and management of immunotherapy related AIHA (ir-AIHA) including an algorithmic approach based on severity of anemia. Suggested mechanisms are discussed, guidance on ICI resumption provided and prognosis reviewed including risk of recurrence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven R Hwang
- Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, 200 First street Southwest, Rochester, Minnesota 55905, USA; Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Oncology, Mayo Clinic, 200 First Street Southwest, Rochester, Minnesota 55905, USA
| | - Antoine N Saliba
- Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, 200 First street Southwest, Rochester, Minnesota 55905, USA; Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Oncology, Mayo Clinic, 200 First Street Southwest, Rochester, Minnesota 55905, USA
| | - Alexandra P Wolanskyj-Spinner
- Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, 200 First street Southwest, Rochester, Minnesota 55905, USA; Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, 200 First Street Southwest, Rochester, Minnesota 55905, USA.
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30
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Venkitakrishnan R, Augustine J, Paul M, Abraham L. Disseminated tuberculosis associated with autoimmune haemolytic anaemia and adrenal deficiency: a rare association. BMJ Case Rep 2022; 15:e249277. [PMID: 35246442 PMCID: PMC8900022 DOI: 10.1136/bcr-2022-249277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Tuberculosis (TB) is one of the greatest masqueraders in medical practice and can have manifestations involving any organ or organ systems of the body. The presentation of disseminated TB can range from typical features like fever, weight loss and fatigue to protean manifestations. We share the case of an elderly man who presented to us with weight loss, anaemia, weakness and lymphadenopathy involving thoracic and intraabdominal locations. Work up of anaemia revealed features of Coombs-positive autoimmune haemolytic anaemia (AIHA) and evaluation of weakness showed laboratory results consistent with adrenal insufficiency. Biopsy of the abdominal lymphnode yielded caseating granulomas with CB-NAAT positivity for Mycobacterium tuberculosis Anti-TB chemotherapy with short-term replacement dose of systemic steroids corrected the haemolysis, anaemia and addisonian crisis. The case alerts clinicians regarding the uncommon association of TB with Coombs positive AIHA and adds one more aetiology to the pathogenesis of anaemia in TB. Furthermore, the occurrence of AIHA and hypoadrenalism in the same patient with TB is exceedingly rare and has not been reported.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Mobin Paul
- Clinical Hematology, Rajagiri Hospital, Aluva, India
| | - Latha Abraham
- Department of Pathology, Rajagiri Hospital, Aluva, Kerala, India
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31
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Rangnekar A, Shenoy M S, Mahabala C, Balanthimogru P. Impact of baseline fluorescent antinuclear antibody positivity on the clinical outcome of patients with primary autoimmune hemolytic anemia. Hematol Transfus Cell Ther 2022:S2531-1379(22)00033-5. [DOI: 10.1016/j.htct.2022.01.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2021] [Revised: 11/04/2021] [Accepted: 01/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
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32
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Yui JC, Brodsky RA. Updates in the Management of Warm Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia. Hematol Oncol Clin North Am 2022; 36:325-339. [DOI: 10.1016/j.hoc.2021.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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33
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Michel M. Adult Evans' Syndrome. Hematol Oncol Clin North Am 2022; 36:381-392. [DOI: 10.1016/j.hoc.2021.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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34
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35
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Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia: Diagnosis and Differential Diagnosis. Hematol Oncol Clin North Am 2022; 36:315-324. [DOI: 10.1016/j.hoc.2021.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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36
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Makharia A, Lakhotia M, Roy B. Primary Evans syndrome in an adult man. BMJ Case Rep 2021; 14:e243051. [PMID: 34887288 PMCID: PMC8663103 DOI: 10.1136/bcr-2021-243051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Evans syndrome (ES) is a simultaneous or subsequent development of two haematological disorders, autoimmune haemolytic anaemia (AIHA) and immune thrombocytopenia (ITP). It can be primary (idiopathic) or secondary (associated with an underlying disease). Primary Evans is a diagnosis of exclusion and has a poorer prognosis than AIHA or ITP alone. We present a 55-year-old man who presented with weakness and lethargy and was diagnosed to be suffering from primary ES.
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Affiliation(s)
- Archita Makharia
- General Medicine, Dr Sampurnanand Medical College, Jodhpur, India
| | - Manoj Lakhotia
- General Medicine, Dr Sampurnanand Medical College, Jodhpur, India
| | - Brateen Roy
- General Medicine, Dr Sampurnanand Medical College, Jodhpur, India
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37
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Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia in Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia: A Comprehensive Review. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13225804. [PMID: 34830959 PMCID: PMC8616265 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13225804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2021] [Revised: 11/06/2021] [Accepted: 11/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary This review analyzes the occurrence, clinical characteristics, and prognostic impact and treatment of autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA) in chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). Autoimmune hemolytic anemia is observed in about 10% of CLL. Pathogenesis is multifactorial involving humoral, cellular, and innate immunity, so the different mechanisms are well described in this review which also focuses on drugs associated to CLL-AIHA and on difficulties to diagnose it. There is a comprehensive revision of the main published casistics and then of the treatments; in particular the paper analyzes the main chemo-immunotherapeutic agents used in this setting. Since the therapy depends on the presence and severity of clinical symptoms, disease status, and comorbidities, treatment is nowadays more individualized in CLL and also in CLL-AIHA. Patients not responding to corticosteroids and rituximab are treated with CLL-specific drugs as per current guidelines according to age and comorbidities and new targeted agents against BCR and BCL-2 which can be given orally and have few side effects, are very effective both in progressive CLL and in situations such as AIHA. Abstract Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) patients have a greater predisposition to develop autoimmune complications. The most common of them is autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA) with a frequency of 7–10% of cases. Pathogenesis is multifactorial involving humoral, cellular, and innate immunity. CLL B-cells have damaged apoptosis, produce less immunoglobulins, and could be responsible for antigen presentation and releasing inflammatory cytokines. CLL B-cells can act similar to antigen-presenting cells activating self-reactive T helper cells and may induce T-cell subsets imbalance, favoring autoreactive B-cells which produce anti-red blood cells autoantibodies. Treatment is individualized and it depends on the presence and severity of clinical symptoms, disease status, and comorbidities. Corticosteroids are the standardized first-line treatment; second-line treatment comprises rituximab. Patients not responding to corticosteroids and rituximab should be treated with CLL-specific drugs as per current guidelines according to age and comorbidities. New targeted drugs (BTK inhibitors and anti BCL2) are recently used after or together with steroids to manage AIHA. In the case of cold agglutinin disease, rituximab is preferred, because steroids are ineffective. Management must combine supportive therapies, including vitamins; antibiotics and heparin prophylaxis are indicated in order to minimize infectious and thrombotic risk.
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MESH Headings
- Anemia, Hemolytic, Autoimmune/diagnosis
- Anemia, Hemolytic, Autoimmune/pathology
- Anemia, Hemolytic, Autoimmune/physiopathology
- Anemia, Hemolytic, Autoimmune/therapy
- Blood Transfusion
- Complement Inactivating Agents/therapeutic use
- Glucocorticoids/therapeutic use
- Hemoglobinuria, Paroxysmal/diagnosis
- Hemoglobinuria, Paroxysmal/pathology
- Hemoglobinuria, Paroxysmal/physiopathology
- Hemoglobinuria, Paroxysmal/therapy
- Humans
- Immunologic Factors/therapeutic use
- Rituximab/therapeutic use
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Affiliation(s)
- Sigbjørn Berentsen
- From the Department of Research and Innovation, Haugesund Hospital, Helse Fonna Hospital Trust, Haugesund, Norway (S.B.); and the Hematology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan (W.B.)
| | - Wilma Barcellini
- From the Department of Research and Innovation, Haugesund Hospital, Helse Fonna Hospital Trust, Haugesund, Norway (S.B.); and the Hematology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan (W.B.)
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39
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Gabelli M, Ademokun C, Cooper N, Amrolia PI. Pathogenesis, risk factors and therapeutic options for autoimmune haemolytic anaemia in the post-transplant setting. Br J Haematol 2021; 196:45-62. [PMID: 34195990 DOI: 10.1111/bjh.17648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2021] [Accepted: 05/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Autoimmune haemolytic anaemia (AIHA) is a rare complication of allogeneic haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT), observed with an incidence of 1-5%. Paediatric age, diagnosis of non-malignant disease, lympho-depleting agents in the conditioning regimen, use of unrelated donor, graft versus host disease and infections have been associated with a higher risk of AIHA post HSCT. Post-HSCT AIHA is associated with high mortality and morbidity, and it is often very difficult to treat. Steroids and rituximab are used with a response rate around 30-50%. These and other therapeutic strategies are mainly derived from data on primary AIHA, although response rates in post-HSCT AIHA have been generally lower. Here we review the currently available data on risk factors and therapeutic options. There is a need for prospective studies in post-HSCT AIHA to guide clinicians in managing these complex patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Gabelli
- Department of Bone Marrow Transplantation, Great Ormond Street Hospital, London, UK
| | - Christine Ademokun
- Department of Haematology, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Nichola Cooper
- Department of Immunology and Inflammation, Imperial College, London, UK
| | - Persis I Amrolia
- Department of Bone Marrow Transplantation, Great Ormond Street Hospital, London, UK
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40
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Egg D, Rump IC, Mitsuiki N, Rojas-Restrepo J, Maccari ME, Schwab C, Gabrysch A, Warnatz K, Goldacker S, Patiño V, Wolff D, Okada S, Hayakawa S, Shikama Y, Kanda K, Imai K, Sotomatsu M, Kuwashima M, Kamiya T, Morio T, Matsumoto K, Mori T, Yoshimoto Y, Dybedal I, Kanariou M, Kucuk ZY, Chapdelaine H, Petruzelkova L, Lorenz HM, Sullivan KE, Heimall J, Moutschen M, Litzman J, Recher M, Albert MH, Hauck F, Seneviratne S, Pachlopnik Schmid J, Kolios A, Unglik G, Klemann C, Snapper S, Giulino-Roth L, Svaton M, Platt CD, Hambleton S, Neth O, Gosse G, Reinsch S, Holzinger D, Kim YJ, Bakhtiar S, Atschekzei F, Schmidt R, Sogkas G, Chandrakasan S, Rae W, Derfalvi B, Marquart HV, Ozen A, Kiykim A, Karakoc-Aydiner E, Králíčková P, de Bree G, Kiritsi D, Seidel MG, Kobbe R, Dantzer J, Alsina L, Armangue T, Lougaris V, Agyeman P, Nyström S, Buchbinder D, Arkwright PD, Grimbacher B. Therapeutic options for CTLA-4 insufficiency. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2021; 149:736-746. [PMID: 34111452 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaci.2021.04.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2020] [Revised: 03/23/2021] [Accepted: 04/23/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Heterozygous germline mutations in cytotoxic T lymphocyte-associated antigen-4 (CTLA4) impair the immunomodulatory function of regulatory T cells. Affected individuals are prone to life-threatening autoimmune and lymphoproliferative complications. A number of therapeutic options are currently being used with variable effectiveness. OBJECTIVE Our aim was to characterize the responsiveness of patients with CTLA-4 insufficiency to specific therapies and provide recommendations for the diagnostic workup and therapy at an organ-specific level. METHODS Clinical features, laboratory findings, and response to treatment were reviewed retrospectively in an international cohort of 173 carriers of CTLA4 mutation. Patients were followed between 2014 and 2020 for a total of 2624 months from diagnosis. Clinical manifestations were grouped on the basis of organ-specific involvement. Medication use and response were recorded and evaluated. RESULTS Among the 173 CTLA4 mutation carriers, 123 (71%) had been treated for immune complications. Abatacept, rituximab, sirolimus, and corticosteroids ameliorated disease severity, especially in cases of cytopenias and lymphocytic organ infiltration of the gut, lungs, and central nervous system. Immunoglobulin replacement was effective in prevention of infection. Only 4 of 16 patients (25%) with cytopenia who underwent splenectomy had a sustained clinical response. Cure was achieved with stem cell transplantation in 13 of 18 patients (72%). As a result of the aforementioned methods, organ-specific treatment pathways were developed. CONCLUSION Systemic immunosuppressants and abatacept may provide partial control but require ongoing administration. Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation offers a possible cure for patients with CTLA-4 insufficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Egg
- Institute for Immunodeficiency, Center for Chronic Immunodeficiency, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, Albert Ludwig University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Ina Caroline Rump
- Institute for Immunodeficiency, Center for Chronic Immunodeficiency, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, Albert Ludwig University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Noriko Mitsuiki
- Institute for Immunodeficiency, Center for Chronic Immunodeficiency, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, Albert Ludwig University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Jessica Rojas-Restrepo
- Institute for Immunodeficiency, Center for Chronic Immunodeficiency, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, Albert Ludwig University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Maria-Elena Maccari
- Institute for Immunodeficiency, Center for Chronic Immunodeficiency, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, Albert Ludwig University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany; Division of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, Albert Ludwig University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Charlotte Schwab
- Institute for Immunodeficiency, Center for Chronic Immunodeficiency, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, Albert Ludwig University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Annemarie Gabrysch
- Institute for Immunodeficiency, Center for Chronic Immunodeficiency, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, Albert Ludwig University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Klaus Warnatz
- Institute for Immunodeficiency, Center for Chronic Immunodeficiency, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, Albert Ludwig University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany; Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, Albert Ludwig University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Sigune Goldacker
- Institute for Immunodeficiency, Center for Chronic Immunodeficiency, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, Albert Ludwig University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany; Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, Albert Ludwig University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | | | - Daniel Wolff
- Department of Internal Medicine III, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Satoshi Okada
- Department of Pediatrics, Hiroshima University Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Seiichi Hayakawa
- Department of Pediatrics, Hiroshima University Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Yoshiaki Shikama
- Division of Infection, Immunology and Infection, Kanagawa Children's Medical Center, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Kenji Kanda
- Department of Pediatrics, Hikone Municipal Hospital, Shiga, Japan
| | - Kohsuke Imai
- Department of Community Pediatrics, Perinatal and Maternal Medicine, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Manabu Sotomatsu
- Department of Hematology/Oncology, Gunma Children's Medical Center, Shibukawa, Japan
| | - Makoto Kuwashima
- Department of Pediatrics, Kiryu Kosei General Hospital, Kiryū, Japan
| | - Takahiro Kamiya
- Department of Lifetime Clinical Immunology, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tomohiro Morio
- Department of Pediatrics and Developmental Biology, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kazuaki Matsumoto
- Department of Pediatrics and Developmental Biology, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takeshi Mori
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Hyogo Prefectural Kobe Children's Hospital, Kobe, Japan
| | - Yuri Yoshimoto
- Department of Pediatrics, Center Hospital of the National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Ingunn Dybedal
- Department of Hematology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Maria Kanariou
- Department of Immunology and Histocompatibility, Center for Primary Immunodeficiencies-Paediatric Immunology, Aghia Sophia Children's Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Zeynep Yesim Kucuk
- Division of Bone Marrow Transplantation and Immune Deficiency, Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Hugo Chapdelaine
- Division of Clinical Immunology, Montreal Clinical Research Institute, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Lenka Petruzelkova
- Department of Paediatrics, Motol University Hospital, Second Medical Faculty in Prague, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Hanns-Martin Lorenz
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine V, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Kathleen E Sullivan
- The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania
| | - Jennifer Heimall
- The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania
| | - Michel Moutschen
- Department of Infectious Diseases and General Internal Medicine, University Hospital of Liège
| | - Jiri Litzman
- Department of Clinical Immunology and Allergology, Medical Faculty, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic; Department of Clinical Immunology and Allergology, St. Anne's University Hospital, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Mike Recher
- Immunodeficiency Clinic, Medical Outpatient Unit and Immunodeficiency Lab, Department Biomedicine, University Hospital, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Michael H Albert
- Department of Pediatrics, Dr von Hauner Children's Hospital, University Hospital, Ludwig Maximilians Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Fabian Hauck
- Department of Pediatrics, Dr von Hauner Children's Hospital, University Hospital, Ludwig Maximilians Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Suranjith Seneviratne
- Institute of Immunology and Transplantation, Royal Free Hospital, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jana Pachlopnik Schmid
- Division of Immunology, University Children's Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Antonios Kolios
- Department of Immunology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Gary Unglik
- Department of Clinical Immunology and Allergy, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Christian Klemann
- Institute for Immunodeficiency, Center for Chronic Immunodeficiency, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, Albert Ludwig University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany; Division of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, Albert Ludwig University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Scott Snapper
- Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Boston Children's Hospital and Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Mass
| | - Lisa Giulino-Roth
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY
| | - Michael Svaton
- Childhood Leukaemia Investigation Prague, Department of Paediatric Haematology and Oncology, Second Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and University Hospital Motol, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Craig D Platt
- Division of Immunology, Boston Children's Hospital and Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Mass
| | - Sophie Hambleton
- Great North Children's Hospital, Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, and Newcastle University Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Olaf Neth
- Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Rheumatology and Immunology Unit, Hospital Virgen del Rocío/Instituto de Biomedicina de Sevilla, Sevilla, RECLIP, Spain
| | - Geraldine Gosse
- Montreal Clinical Research Institute, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Steffen Reinsch
- Jena University Hospital, Pediatric Gastroenterology, Jena, Germany
| | - Dirk Holzinger
- Department of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Yae-Jean Kim
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunodeficiency, Department of Pediatrics, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Shahrzad Bakhtiar
- Division of Stem Cell Transplantation and Immunology, Department of Children and Adolescents, University Hospital Frankfurt, Goethe University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Faranaz Atschekzei
- Department for Clinical Rheumatology and Immunology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Reinhold Schmidt
- Department for Clinical Rheumatology and Immunology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Georgios Sogkas
- Department for Clinical Rheumatology and Immunology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Shanmuganathan Chandrakasan
- Division of Bone Marrow Transplant, Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Ga
| | - William Rae
- Department of Immunology, University Hospital Southampton NHSFT, Southampton, United Kingdom; Southampton National Institute for Health Research Clinical Research Facility, University Hospital Southampton NHSFT, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Beata Derfalvi
- Division of Immunology, IWK Health Centre and Dalhousie University, Department of Pediatrics, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Hanne Vibeke Marquart
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ahmet Ozen
- Marmara University School of Medicine, Division of Pediatric Allergy and Immunology, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Ayca Kiykim
- Marmara University School of Medicine, Division of Pediatric Allergy and Immunology, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Elif Karakoc-Aydiner
- Marmara University School of Medicine, Division of Pediatric Allergy and Immunology, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Pavlína Králíčková
- Institute of Clinical Immunology and Allergy, University Hospital Hradec Kralove, Charles University, Faculty of Medicine in Hradec Kralove, Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic
| | - Godelieve de Bree
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Amsterdam University Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Dimitra Kiritsi
- Department of Dermatology, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, Albert Ludwig University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Markus G Seidel
- Research Unit for Pediatric Hematology and Immunology, Division of Pediatric Hemato-Oncology, Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Medical University Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Robin Kobbe
- Division of Infectious Diseases, First Department of Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Jennifer Dantzer
- Division of Pediatric Allergy and Immunology, and Rheumatology, Department of Pediatrics, John Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Md
| | - Laia Alsina
- Clinical Immunology and Primary Immunodeficiencies Unit, Pediatric Allergy and Clinical Immunology Department, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu and Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu, Barcelona; Clinical Immunology Unit Hospital Sant Joan de Déu-Hospital Clínic Barcelona, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Thais Armangue
- Neuroimmunology Program, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer, Hospital Clínic, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Vassilios Lougaris
- Pediatric Neuroimmunology Unit, Neurology Department, Sant Joan de Déu Children's Hospital, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Philipp Agyeman
- Pediatrics Clinic and Institute for Molecular Medicine A. Nocivelli, Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, ASST-Spedali Civili of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Sofia Nyström
- Department of Pediatrics, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - David Buchbinder
- Department of Clinical Immunology and Transfusion Medicine, and Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Peter D Arkwright
- Division of Pediatric Hematology, Children's Hospital of Orange County, Orange, Calif
| | - Bodo Grimbacher
- Institute for Immunodeficiency, Center for Chronic Immunodeficiency, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, Albert Ludwig University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany; Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, Albert Ludwig University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany; Institute of Immunology and Transplantation, Royal Free Hospital, University College London, London, United Kingdom; Lydia Becker Institute of Immunology and Inflammation, University of Manchester, Royal Manchester Children's Hospital, Manchester, United Kingdom; German Center for Infection Research, Satellite Center Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany; Centre for Integrative Biological Signaling Studies, Albert Ludwig University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany; RESIST-Cluster of Excellence 2155 to Hannover Medical School, Satellite Center Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Primary autoimmune haemolytic anaemia (AIHA) is an autoantibody mediated condition characterised by a variable disease course. A myriad of immunomodulatory agents have been employed but there is a paucity of evidence to support their use or compare their effectiveness. OBJECTIVES To determine the effects of various disease-modifying treatment modalities in people with AHIHA. SEARCH METHODS We searched MEDLINE (Ovid) (1946 to 2021), Embase (Ovid) (1974 to 2021), Latin American and Caribbean Health Sciences Literature (LILACS) (1982 to 2021), and the Cochrane Library (CENTRAL). Clinical trial registries and relevant conference proceedings were also reviewed. Records were included as of 7 March 2021. We did not impose any language restrictions. SELECTION CRITERIA Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing immunosuppressive or immunomodulatory treatments against no treatment, placebo, or another immunosuppressive or immunomodulatory treatment, for people of all age with idiopathic AIHA. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS We used standard methodological procedures expected by Cochrane. The prioritised pre-defined outcomes included complete haematological response at 12 months, frequency of adverse events at two, six and 12 months, partial haematological response at 12 months, overall survival at six and 12 months, relapse-free survival (RFS) at six and 12 months, red blood cel (RBC) transfusion requirement after treatment at 12 months, and quality of life (QOL) as measured by validated instruments at 12 months. Based on data availability, we were only able to perform meta-analysis on frequency of complete haematological response. MAIN RESULTS Two trials were included, enrolling a total of 104 adult participants (96 randomised) with warm AIHA in the setting of tertiary referral centres, both comparing the effectiveness between rituximab (375 mg/m2 weekly for four weeks, or 1000 mg for two doses two weeks apart) plus glucocorticoid (prednisolone 1.5 or 1mg/kg/day with taper) and glucocorticoid monotherapy. The average age of participants in the two trials were 67 and 71, respectively. One of the included studies had good methodological quality with low risk of bias, whereas the other study had high risk of performance and detection bias due to lack of blinding. Compared with glucocorticoid alone, adding rituximab may result in a large increase of complete response at 12 months (n = 96, risk ratio (RR) 2.13, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.34 to 3.40, GRADE: low-certainty evidence). Rates of adverse effects at prespecified time-points were not reported. Limited data on partial haematological response were reported. The evidence is very uncertain about the effect of adding rituximab to glucocorticoids on partial haematological response at 12 months (n = 32; study = 1; RR 3.00, 95% CI 0.13 to 68.57; GRADE very low-certainty evidence). RBC transfusion need at 12 months was reported in one study, with four participants (mean number of packed red cell units 4.0 ± 2.82) from the rituximab group and five participants from the placebo (corticosteroid only) (mean number of packed red cell units 5.6 ± 4.15) group requiring transfusion, indicating very uncertain evidence about the effect of adding rituximab to glucocorticoids (n = 32, RR 0.80, 95% CI 0.26 to 2.45, GRADE very low-certainty evidence). The other study did not report transfusion requirement at prespecified time points but reported no difference in transfusion requirement between the two groups when comparing responders from enrolment to end of response or to the end of study follow-up (34 units versus 30 units, median [range]: 0 [1 to 6] versus 0 [1 to 5], P = 0·81). Overall survival and RFS rates at prespecified time-points were not explicitly reported in either study. Data on QOL were not available. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS Available literature on the effectiveness of immunomodulatory therapy for primary AIHA is restricted to comparison between rituximab plus glucocorticoid and glucocorticoid alone, in patients with newly diagnosed warm AIHA, calling for need for additional studies. The current result suggests that combinatory therapy with rituximab and glucocorticoid may increase the rate of complete haematological response over glucocorticoid monotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony Pak-Yin Liu
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Queen Mary Hospital, Hong Kong, China
| | - Daniel Kl Cheuk
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Queen Mary Hospital, Hong Kong, China
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Tranekær S, Hansen DL, Frederiksen H. Epidemiology of Secondary Warm Autoimmune Haemolytic Anaemia-A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10061244. [PMID: 33802848 PMCID: PMC8002719 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10061244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2021] [Revised: 03/09/2021] [Accepted: 03/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Warm autoimmune haemolytic anaemia (wAIHA) is a haemolytic disorder, most commonly seen among adults and is classified as either primary or secondary to an underlying disease. We describe the age and sex distribution and the proportion of secondary wAIHA. Method: We retrieved 2635 published articles, screened abstracts and titles, and identified 27 articles eligible for full-text review. From these studies, we extracted data regarding number of patients, sex distribution, age at diagnosis, number of patients with secondary wAIHA, and whether the patients were diagnosed through local or referral centres. All data were weighted according to the number of included patients in each study. Results: 27 studies including a total of 4311 patients with wAIHA, of which 66% were females, were included. The median age at diagnosis was 68.7 years, however, wAIHA affected all ages. The mean proportion of secondary wAIHA was 49%, most frequently secondary to systemic lupus erythematosus. The proportions of secondary wAIHA reported from primary vs. referral centres were 35% vs. 59%, respectively. Conclusion: This review consolidates previously reported gender distribution. The higher proportion of secondary wAIHA in referral centres suggests that the most severely affected patients are disproportionally more frequent in such facilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stinne Tranekær
- Haematological Research Unit, Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern, 5230 Odense M, Denmark; (S.T.); (D.L.H.)
- Department of Haematology, Odense University Hospital, 5000 Odense C, Denmark
| | - Dennis Lund Hansen
- Haematological Research Unit, Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern, 5230 Odense M, Denmark; (S.T.); (D.L.H.)
- Department of Haematology, Odense University Hospital, 5000 Odense C, Denmark
| | - Henrik Frederiksen
- Haematological Research Unit, Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern, 5230 Odense M, Denmark; (S.T.); (D.L.H.)
- Department of Haematology, Odense University Hospital, 5000 Odense C, Denmark
- Correspondence:
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43
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How I treat warm autoimmune hemolytic anemia. Blood 2021; 137:1283-1294. [PMID: 33512406 DOI: 10.1182/blood.2019003808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2020] [Accepted: 08/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Warm autoimmune hemolytic anemia (wAIHA) is caused by increased erythrocyte destruction by immunoglobulin G (IgG) autoantibodies, with or without complement activation. Antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity by macrophages/activated lymphocytes occurs in the lymphoid organs and spleen (extravascular hemolysis). The ability of the bone marrow (BM) to compensate determines clinical severity. The different pathogenic mechanisms, their complex interplay, and changes over time may explain wAIHA's great clinical heterogeneity and unpredictable course. The disease may be primary, drug induced, or associated with lymphoproliferative neoplasms, autoimmune and infectious diseases, immunodeficiencies, solid tumors, or transplants. Therapeutic interventions include steroids, splenectomy, immunosuppressants, and rituximab; the latter is increasingly used in steroid-refractory cases based on evidence from the literature and a few prospective trials. We present 5 patient case studies highlighting important issues: (1) the diagnosis and proper use of steroid therapy, (2) the concerns about the choice between rituximab and splenectomy in second-line treatment, (3) the need of periodical re-evaluation of the disease to assess the possible evolution of relapsed/refractory cases in myelodysplastic and BM failure syndromes, and (4) the difficulties in managing cases of severe/acute disease that are at high risk of relapse. Incorporating novel targeted therapies into clinical practice will be an exciting challenge in the future.
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Mausoleo A, Henriquez S, Goujard C, Roque-Afonso AM, Noel N, Lambotte O. Severe IgA-mediated autoimmune hemolytic anemia triggered by SARS-CoV-2 infection. Leuk Lymphoma 2021; 62:2037-2039. [PMID: 33618609 DOI: 10.1080/10428194.2021.1888378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Aude Mausoleo
- Clinical Immunology Department, AP-HP.Université Paris-Saclay, Hôpital Bicêtre, Le Kremlin Bicêtre, France
| | - Soledad Henriquez
- Clinical Immunology Department, AP-HP.Université Paris-Saclay, Hôpital Bicêtre, Le Kremlin Bicêtre, France
| | - Cécile Goujard
- Clinical Immunology Department, AP-HP.Université Paris-Saclay, Hôpital Bicêtre, Le Kremlin Bicêtre, France.,Inserm, CESP 10, Université Paris-Saclay, Le Kremlin Bicêtre, France
| | - Anne-Marie Roque-Afonso
- Department of Virology, AP-HP.Université Paris-Saclay, Hôpital Paul Brousse, Villejuif, France
| | - Nicolas Noel
- Clinical Immunology Department, AP-HP.Université Paris-Saclay, Hôpital Bicêtre, Le Kremlin Bicêtre, France.,Inserm, CEA, Centre de recherche en Immunologie des infections virales et des maladies auto-immunes ImVA, Université Paris-Saclay, Le Kremlin Bicêtre, France
| | - Olivier Lambotte
- Clinical Immunology Department, AP-HP.Université Paris-Saclay, Hôpital Bicêtre, Le Kremlin Bicêtre, France.,Inserm, CEA, Centre de recherche en Immunologie des infections virales et des maladies auto-immunes ImVA, Université Paris-Saclay, Le Kremlin Bicêtre, France
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45
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Ronchetti S, Ayroldi E, Ricci E, Gentili M, Migliorati G, Riccardi C. A Glance at the Use of Glucocorticoids in Rare Inflammatory and Autoimmune Diseases: Still an Indispensable Pharmacological Tool? Front Immunol 2021; 11:613435. [PMID: 33584696 PMCID: PMC7874096 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.613435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2020] [Accepted: 12/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Since their discovery, glucocorticoids (GCs) have been used to treat almost all autoimmune and chronic inflammatory diseases, as well as allergies and some forms of malignancies, because of their immunosuppressive and anti-inflammatory effects. Although GCs provide only symptomatic relief and do not eliminate the cause of the pathology, in the majority of treatments, GCs frequently cannot be replaced by other classes of drugs. Consequently, long-term treatments cause adverse effects that may, in turn, lead to new pathologies that sometimes require the withdrawal of GC therapy. Therefore, thus far, researchers have focused their efforts on molecules that have the same efficacy as that of GCs but cause fewer adverse effects. To this end, some GC-induced proteins, such as glucocorticoid-induced leucine zipper (GILZ), have been used as drugs in mouse models of inflammatory pathologies. In this review, we focus on some important but rare autoimmune and chronic inflammatory diseases for which the biomedical research investment in new therapies is less likely. Additionally, we critically evaluate the possibility of treating such diseases with other drugs, either GC-related or unrelated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simona Ronchetti
- Pharmacology Division, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Emira Ayroldi
- Pharmacology Division, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Erika Ricci
- Pharmacology Division, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Marco Gentili
- Pharmacology Division, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Graziella Migliorati
- Pharmacology Division, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Carlo Riccardi
- Pharmacology Division, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
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46
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Rituximab Use in Warm and Cold Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia. J Clin Med 2020; 9:jcm9124034. [PMID: 33322221 PMCID: PMC7763062 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9124034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2020] [Revised: 12/06/2020] [Accepted: 12/09/2020] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Autoimmune hemolytic anemia is a rare condition characterized by destruction of red blood cells with and without involvement of complement. It is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. In warm autoimmune hemolytic anemia, less than 50% of patients remain in long-term remission following initial steroid therapy and subsequent therapies are required. Cold agglutinin disease is a clonal hematologic disorder that requires therapy in the majority of patients and responds poorly to steroids and alkylators. Rituximab has a favorable toxicity profile and has demonstrated efficacy in autoimmune hemolytic anemia in first-line as well as relapsed settings. Rituximab is the preferred therapy for steroid refractory warm autoimmune hemolytic anemia (wAIHA) and as part of the first- and second-line treatment of cold agglutinin disease. This article reviews the mechanism of action of rituximab and the current literature on its role in the management of primary and secondary warm autoimmune hemolytic anemia and cold agglutinin disease.
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Kasinathan G, Sathar J. Mixed-type autoimmune hemolytic anaemia presenting as multiple thromboses: A case report. Ann Med Surg (Lond) 2020; 60:323-326. [PMID: 33204423 PMCID: PMC7653202 DOI: 10.1016/j.amsu.2020.11.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2020] [Revised: 11/01/2020] [Accepted: 11/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Autoimmune hemolytic anaemia (AIHA) is a heterogenous disorder characterised by the presence of IgG or IgM pathological autoantibodies that target antigens of erythrocytes resulting in active hemolysis. Case presentation: A 40-year-old gentleman presented to a medical centre with chest pain and right sided hemiparesis for a week. He was pale and jaundiced. The power of the right upper and lower limbs was 3/5. His spleen was palpable. His complete blood count revealed macrocytic anaemia of 7.6 g/dL. The brain Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) showed left fronto-parietal infarction. The right cardiac and left carotid angiogram revealed thromboses involving the right coronary and left internal carotid artery respectively. At the cardiology department, he was transfused with two units of red blood cells without his anemia being investigated and a stent was deployed to the left internal carotid artery. He was referred to the hematology department in which his peripheral blood smear revealed hemolysis and his direct antiglobulin test was positive. He responded to a course of steroids and direct oral anticoagulation and is in complete remission for the past 18 months. Conclusion: It is always imperative to investigate the cause of anaemia and consider hemolysis in a patient presenting with multiple unexplained thromboses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ganesh Kasinathan
- Department of Haematology, Ampang Hospital, Ampang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Jameela Sathar
- Department of Haematology, Ampang Hospital, Ampang, Selangor, Malaysia
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48
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Evans' Syndrome: From Diagnosis to Treatment. J Clin Med 2020; 9:jcm9123851. [PMID: 33260979 PMCID: PMC7759819 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9123851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2020] [Revised: 11/21/2020] [Accepted: 11/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Evans' syndrome (ES) is defined as the concomitant or sequential association of warm auto-immune haemolytic anaemia (AIHA) with immune thrombocytopenia (ITP), and less frequently autoimmune neutropenia. ES is a rare situation that represents up to 7% of AIHA and around 2% of ITP. When AIHA and ITP occurred concomitantly, the diagnosis procedure must rule out differential diagnoses such as thrombotic microangiopathies, anaemia due to bleedings complicating ITP, vitamin deficiencies, myelodysplastic syndromes, paroxysmal nocturnal haemoglobinuria, or specific conditions like HELLP when occurring during pregnancy. As for isolated auto-immune cytopenia (AIC), the determination of the primary or secondary nature of ES is important. Indeed, the association of ES with other diseases such as haematological malignancies, systemic lupus erythematosus, infections, or primary immune deficiencies can interfere with its management or alter its prognosis. Due to the rarity of the disease, the treatment of ES is mostly extrapolated from what is recommended for isolated AIC and mostly relies on corticosteroids, rituximab, splenectomy, and supportive therapies. The place for thrombopoietin receptor agonists, erythropoietin, immunosuppressants, haematopoietic cell transplantation, and thromboprophylaxis is also discussed in this review. Despite continuous progress in the management of AIC and a gradual increase in ES survival, the mortality due to ES remains higher than the ones of isolated AIC, supporting the need for an improvement in ES management.
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New Insights in Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia: From Pathogenesis to Therapy Stage 1. J Clin Med 2020; 9:jcm9123859. [PMID: 33261023 PMCID: PMC7759854 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9123859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2020] [Revised: 11/20/2020] [Accepted: 11/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA) is a highly heterogeneous disease due to increased destruction of autologous erythrocytes by autoantibodies with or without complement involvement. Other pathogenic mechanisms include hyper-activation of cellular immune effectors, cytokine dysregulation, and ineffective marrow compensation. AIHAs may be primary or associated with lymphoproliferative and autoimmune diseases, infections, immunodeficiencies, solid tumors, transplants, and drugs. The direct antiglobulin test is the cornerstone of diagnosis, allowing the distinction into warm forms (wAIHA), cold agglutinin disease (CAD), and other more rare forms. The immunologic mechanisms responsible for erythrocyte destruction in the various AIHAs are different and therefore therapy is quite dissimilar. In wAIHA, steroids represent first line therapy, followed by rituximab and splenectomy. Conventional immunosuppressive drugs (azathioprine, cyclophosphamide, cyclosporine) are now considered the third line. In CAD, steroids are useful only at high/unacceptable doses and splenectomy is uneffective. Rituximab is advised in first line therapy, followed by rituximab plus bendamustine and bortezomib. Several new drugs are under development including B-cell directed therapies (ibrutinib, venetoclax, parsaclisib) and inhibitors of complement (sutimlimab, pegcetacoplan), spleen tyrosine kinases (fostamatinib), or neonatal Fc receptor. Here, a comprehensive review of the main clinical characteristics, diagnosis, and pathogenic mechanisms of AIHA are provided, along with classic and new therapeutic approaches.
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Michalak SS, Olewicz-Gawlik A, Rupa-Matysek J, Wolny-Rokicka E, Nowakowska E, Gil L. Autoimmune hemolytic anemia: current knowledge and perspectives. IMMUNITY & AGEING 2020; 17:38. [PMID: 33292368 PMCID: PMC7677104 DOI: 10.1186/s12979-020-00208-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2020] [Accepted: 11/10/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA) is an acquired, heterogeneous group of diseases which includes warm AIHA, cold agglutinin disease (CAD), mixed AIHA, paroxysmal cold hemoglobinuria and atypical AIHA. Currently CAD is defined as a chronic, clonal lymphoproliferative disorder, while the presence of cold agglutinins underlying other diseases is known as cold agglutinin syndrome. AIHA is mediated by autoantibodies directed against red blood cells (RBCs) causing premature erythrocyte destruction. The pathogenesis of AIHA is complex and still not fully understood. Recent studies indicate the involvement of T and B cell dysregulation, reduced CD4+ and CD25+ Tregs, increased clonal expansions of CD8 + T cells, imbalance of Th17/Tregs and Tfh/Tfr, and impaired lymphocyte apoptosis. Changes in some RBC membrane structures, under the influence of mechanical stimuli or oxidative stress, may promote autohemolysis. The clinical presentation and treatment of AIHA are influenced by many factors, including the type of AIHA, degree of hemolysis, underlying diseases, presence of concomitant comorbidities, bone marrow compensatory abilities and the presence of fibrosis and dyserthropoiesis. The main treatment for AIHA is based on the inhibition of autoantibody production by mono- or combination therapy using GKS and/or rituximab and, rarely, immunosuppressive drugs or immunomodulators. Reduction of erythrocyte destruction via splenectomy is currently the third line of treatment for warm AIHA. Supportive treatment including vitamin supplementation, recombinant erythropoietin, thrombosis prophylaxis and the prevention and treatment of infections is essential. New groups of drugs that inhibit immune responses at various levels are being developed intensively, including inhibition of antibody-mediated RBCs phagocytosis, inhibition of B cell and plasma cell frequency and activity, inhibition of IgG recycling, immunomodulation of T lymphocytes function, and complement cascade inhibition. Recent studies have brought about changes in classification and progress in understanding the pathogenesis and treatment of AIHA, although there are still many issues to be resolved, particularly concerning the impact of age-associated changes to immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sylwia Sulimiera Michalak
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology Institute of Health Sciences, Collegium Medicum, University of Zielona Gora, Zielona Góra, Poland.
| | - Anna Olewicz-Gawlik
- Department of Anatomy and Histology Institute of Health Sciences, Collegium Medicum, University of Zielona Gora, Zielona Góra, Poland.,Department of Infectious Diseases, Hepatology and Acquired Immune Deficiencies, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland.,Department of Immunology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Joanna Rupa-Matysek
- Department of Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznań, Poland
| | - Edyta Wolny-Rokicka
- Department of Radiotherapy, Multidisciplinary Hospital, Gorzów Wielkopolski, Poland
| | - Elżbieta Nowakowska
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology Institute of Health Sciences, Collegium Medicum, University of Zielona Gora, Zielona Góra, Poland
| | - Lidia Gil
- Department of Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznań, Poland
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