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Mustafa HJ, Sambatur EV, Pagani G, D'Antonio F, Maisonneuve E, Maurice P, Zwiers C, Verweij JEJT, Flood A, Shamshirsaz AA, Jouannic JM, Khalil A. Intravenous immunoglobulin for the treatment of severe maternal alloimmunization: individual patient data meta-analysis. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2024:S0002-9378(24)00508-8. [PMID: 38588966 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2024.03.044] [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: 12/19/2023] [Revised: 03/18/2024] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed to investigate the outcomes associated with the administration of maternal intravenous immunoglobulin in high-risk red blood cell-alloimmunized pregnancies. DATA SOURCES Medline, Embase, and Cochrane Library were systematically searched until June 2023. STUDY ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA This review included studies reporting on pregnancies with severe red blood cell alloimmunization, defined as either a previous fetal or neonatal death or the need for intrauterine transfusion before 24 weeks of gestation in the previous pregnancy as a result of hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn. METHODS Cases were pregnancies that received intravenous immunoglobulin, whereas controls did not. Individual patient data meta-analysis was performed using the Bayesian framework. RESULTS Individual patient data analysis included 8 studies consisting of 97 cases and 97 controls. Intravenous immunoglobulin was associated with prolonged delta gestational age at the first intrauterine transfusion (gestational age of current pregnancy - gestational age at previous pregnancy) (mean difference, 3.19 weeks; 95% credible interval, 1.28-5.05), prolonged gestational age at the first intrauterine transfusion (mean difference, 1.32 weeks; 95% credible interval, 0.08-2.50), reduced risk of fetal hydrops at the time of first intrauterine transfusion (incidence rate ratio, 0.19; 95% credible interval, 0.07-0.45), reduced risk of fetal demise (incidence rate ratio, 0.23; 95% credible interval, 0.10-0.47), higher chances of live birth at ≥28 weeks (incidence rate ratio, 1.88; 95% credible interval, 1.31-2.69;), higher chances of live birth at ≥32 weeks (incidence rate ratio, 1.93; 95% credible interval, 1.32-2.83), and higher chances of survival at birth (incidence rate ratio, 1.82; 95% credible interval, 1.30-2.61). There was no substantial difference in the number of intrauterine transfusions, hemoglobin level at birth, bilirubin level at birth, or survival at hospital discharge for live births. CONCLUSION Intravenous immunoglobulin treatment in pregnancies at risk of severe early hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn seems to have a clinically relevant beneficial effect on the course and severity of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiba J Mustafa
- Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN; Fetal Center at Riley Children's and Indiana University Health, Indianapolis, IN.
| | - Enaja V Sambatur
- Division of Fetal Medicine and Surgery, Maternal Fetal Care Center, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard School of Medicine, Boston, MA
| | - Giorgio Pagani
- Maternal-Fetal Medicine Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Azienda Socio-Sanitaria Territoriale-Papa Giovanni XXIII, Bergamo, Italy
| | - Francesco D'Antonio
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Fetal Care and High-Risk Pregnancy, University Hospital of Chieti, Chieti, Italy
| | - Emeline Maisonneuve
- Materno-Fetal and Obstetrics Research Unit, Woman-Mother-Child Department, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland; Fetal Medicine Department and French Referral National Centre for Perinatal Hemobiology, Armand Trousseau Hospital, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris Sorbonne Université, Paris, France
| | - Paul Maurice
- Fetal Medicine Department and French Referral National Centre for Perinatal Hemobiology, Armand Trousseau Hospital, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris Sorbonne Université, Paris, France
| | - Carolien Zwiers
- Division of Fetal Therapy, Department of Obstetrics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Joanne E J T Verweij
- Division of Fetal Therapy, Department of Obstetrics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Anna Flood
- Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN
| | - Alireza A Shamshirsaz
- Division of Fetal Medicine and Surgery, Maternal Fetal Care Center, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard School of Medicine, Boston, MA
| | - Jean-Marie Jouannic
- Fetal Medicine Department and French Referral National Centre for Perinatal Hemobiology, Armand Trousseau Hospital, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris Sorbonne Université, Paris, France
| | - Asma Khalil
- Fetal Medicine Unit, St George's Hospital, St George's University of London, London, United Kingdom; Vascular Biology Research Centre, Molecular and Clinical Sciences Research Institute, St George's University of London, London, United Kingdom
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Lv P, Li J, Yao Y, Fan X, Liu C, Li H, Zhou H. A novel pyrosequencing strategy for RHD zygosity for predicting risk of hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn. Lab Med 2024; 55:145-152. [PMID: 37307496 DOI: 10.1093/labmed/lmad051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was the development of an accurate and quantitative pyrosequence (PSQ) method for paternal RHD zygosity detection to help risk management of hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn (HDFN). METHODS Blood samples from 96 individuals were genotyped for RHD zygosity using pyrosequencing assay. To validate the accuracy of pyrosequencing results, all the samples were then detected by the mismatch polymerase chain reaction with sequence-specific primers (PCR-SSP) method and Sanger DNA sequencing. Serological tests were performed to assess RhD phenotypes. RESULTS Serological results revealed that 36 cases were RhD-positive and 60 cases were RhD-negative. The concordance rate between pyrosequencing assay and mismatch PCR-SSP assay was 94.8% (91/96). There were 5 discordant results between pyrosequencing and the mismatch PCR-SSP assay. Sanger sequencing confirmed that the pyrosequencing assay correctly assigned zygosity for the 5 samples. CONCLUSION This DNA pyrosequencing method accurately detect RHD zygosity and will help risk management of pregnancies that are at risk of HDFN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Piao Lv
- Department of Blood Transfusion, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jixin Li
- Department of Blood Transfusion, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yuan Yao
- Department of Blood Transfusion, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xinxin Fan
- Department of Blood Transfusion, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chixiang Liu
- Department of Blood Transfusion, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hui Li
- Department of Hematology, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine (The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine), Guangzhou, China
| | - Huayou Zhou
- Department of Blood Transfusion, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
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Carpenter MC, Souter SC, Zipkin RJ, Ackerman ME. Current Insights Into K-associated Fetal Anemia and Potential Treatment Strategies for Sensitized Pregnancies. Transfus Med Rev 2024; 38:150779. [PMID: 37926651 PMCID: PMC10856777 DOI: 10.1016/j.tmrv.2023.150779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2023] [Revised: 09/21/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023]
Abstract
K-associated anemic disease of the fetus and newborn (K-ADFN) is a rare but life-threatening disease in which maternal alloantibodies cross the placenta and can mediate an immune attack on fetal red blood cells expressing the K antigen. A considerably more common disease, D-associated hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn (D-HDFN), can be prophylactically treated using polyclonal α-D antibody preparations. Currently, no such prophylactic treatment exists for K-associated fetal anemia, and disease is usually treated with intrauterine blood transfusions. Here we review current understanding of the biology of K-associated fetal anemia, how the maternal immune system is sensitized to fetal red blood cells, and what is understood about potential mechanisms of prophylactic HDFN interventions. Given the apparent challenges associated with preventing alloimmunization, we highlight novel strategies for treating sensitized mothers to prevent fetal anemia that may hold promise not only for K-mediated disease, but also for other pathogenic alloantibody responses.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Margaret E Ackerman
- Thayer School of Engineering, Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH, USA; Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Lebanon, NH, USA.
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Tran MH, Mathur G, Barnhard S, Schwartz J. Historic and emerging trends in transfusion medicine: Maintaining relevance as a specialty. Transfusion 2023; 63:2341-2350. [PMID: 37921092 DOI: 10.1111/trf.17588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2023] [Revised: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/08/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Minh-Ha Tran
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Irvine School of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, California, USA
| | - Gagan Mathur
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Irvine School of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, California, USA
| | - Sarah Barnhard
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Davis School of Medicine, University of California, Sacramento, California, USA
| | - Joseph Schwartz
- Department of Pathology, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, Florida, USA
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5
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Crowe EP, Hasan R, Saifee NH, Bakhtary S, Miller JL, Gonzalez-Velez JM, Goel R. How do we perform intrauterine transfusions? Transfusion 2023; 63:2214-2224. [PMID: 37888489 DOI: 10.1111/trf.17570] [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: 08/01/2023] [Revised: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Intrauterine transfusion (IUT) is an invasive but critical and potentially life-saving intervention for severe fetal anemia with demonstrated improvement in outcomes. The fetus is vulnerable to hemodynamic alterations and transfusion-related adverse events; therefore, special consideration must be given to blood component selection and modification. There is widespread IUT practice variability, and existing guidance primarily relies on expert opinion and single center experiences. STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS Experts in Maternal Fetal Medicine, Pediatric Hematology, and Transfusion Medicine from centers across the United States, collectively performing about 120 IUT annually, offer a multidisciplinary perspective on the performance of IUT and preparation of blood components. This perspective includes strategies for identifying an at-risk fetus, communicating between disciplines, determining the necessary blood volume, selecting and processing blood components, documenting the procedure in medical record, and managing the neonate. RESULTS Identifying an at-risk fetus relies on review of the clinical history, non-invasive monitoring, and laboratory evaluation. We recommend the use of relatively fresh, group O, cytomegalovirus-safe, freshly irradiated, red blood cells (RBC) that are Hemoglobin S negative and antigen-negative for any maternal antibody, if indicated. These RBC units should be concentrated to remove additives and increase the hematocrit thus minimizing fluctuations in fetal volume status. The units intended for IUT should be labeled clearly and the documentation of transfusion differentiated in the maternal medical record. DISCUSSION An awareness of the technical, logistical, and regulatory considerations for IUT performance will facilitate improved communication and patient care, especially when rare units of RBC are required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth P Crowe
- Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Rida Hasan
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Nabiha H Saifee
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Sara Bakhtary
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Jena L Miller
- The Johns Hopkins Center for Fetal Therapy, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Juan M Gonzalez-Velez
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Ruchika Goel
- Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Corporate Medical Affairs, Vitalant, Scottsdale, Arizona, USA
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Bhandari V, Bril V. FcRN receptor antagonists in the management of myasthenia gravis. Front Neurol 2023; 14:1229112. [PMID: 37602255 PMCID: PMC10439012 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2023.1229112] [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: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 07/19/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Myasthenia gravis (MG) is an autoimmune disorder characterized by autoantibodies specifically directed against proteins located within the postsynaptic membrane of the neuromuscular junction. These pathogenic autoantibodies can be reduced by therapies such as plasma exchange, IVIG infusions and other immunosuppressive agents. However, there are significant side effects associated with most of these therapies. Since there is a better understanding of the molecular structure and the biological properties of the neonatal Fc receptors (FcRn), it possesses an attractive profile in treating myasthenia gravis. FcRn receptors prevent the catabolism of IgG by impeding their lysosomal degradation and facilitating their extracellular release at physiological pH, consequently extending the IgG half-life. Thus, the catabolism of IgG can be enhanced by blocking the FcRn, leading to outcomes similar to those achieved through plasma exchange with no significant safety concerns. The available studies suggest that FcRn holds promise as a versatile therapeutic intervention, capable of delivering beneficial outcomes in patients with distinct characteristics and varying degrees of MG severity. Efgartigimod is already approved for the treatment of generalized MG, rozanolixizumab is under review by health authorities, and phase 3 trials of nipocalimab and batoclimab are underway. Here, we will review the available data on FcRn therapeutic agents in the management of MG.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Vera Bril
- Ellen and Martin Prosserman Centre for Neuromuscular Diseases, Toronto General Hospital, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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Gavillet M, Rufer N, Grandoni F, Rizzi M, Vulliemoz N, Baud D, Alberio L, Canellini G, Legardeur H. Successful outcome of pregnancy post-allogeneic stem cell transplant despite severe RH1 alloimmunization: A case report. Br J Haematol 2023; 201:581-584. [PMID: 36916418 DOI: 10.1111/bjh.18741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 02/25/2023] [Indexed: 03/16/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Mathilde Gavillet
- Service and Central Laboratory of Haematology, Department of Oncology and Department of Laboratories and Pathology, Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV) and University of Lausanne (UNIL), Lausanne, Switzerland.,Interregional Blood Transfusion SRC, Epalinges, Switzerland
| | - Nathalie Rufer
- Interregional Blood Transfusion SRC, Epalinges, Switzerland
| | - Francesco Grandoni
- Service and Central Laboratory of Haematology, Department of Oncology and Department of Laboratories and Pathology, Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV) and University of Lausanne (UNIL), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Mattia Rizzi
- Pediatric Hematology-Oncology Unit, Division of Pediatrics, Department "Woman-Mother-Child", Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV) and University of Lausanne (UNIL), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | | | - David Baud
- Materno-fetal and Obstetrics Research Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV) and University of Lausanne (UNIL), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Lorenzo Alberio
- Service and Central Laboratory of Haematology, Department of Oncology and Department of Laboratories and Pathology, Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV) and University of Lausanne (UNIL), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | | | - Hélène Legardeur
- Materno-fetal and Obstetrics Research Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV) and University of Lausanne (UNIL), Lausanne, Switzerland
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8
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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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He T, Gong L. Clinical Effect of Microneedle Injection Combined with Blood Transfusion in the Treatment of Severe Anemia Complicated with Vitiligo under Regenerative Medical Technology. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 2022:7117627. [PMID: 35937386 PMCID: PMC9355759 DOI: 10.1155/2022/7117627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2022] [Revised: 05/31/2022] [Accepted: 06/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
To explore the clinical efficacy of microneedle injection combined with blood transfusion in the treatment of severe anemia complicated with vitiligo based on regenerative medical technology and provide the theoretical basis for the adoption of microneedle technology, 60 patients with severe anemia complicated with vitiligo were selected as research objects. With 15 patients in each group, they were randomly assigned to the control group (calcipotriol ointment external application), observation group A (external application of moist exposed burn ointment (MEBO), observation group B (external application of MEBO combined with blood transfusion), and observation group C (microneedle injection of MEBO combined with blood transfusion). Blood indexes and plaque recovery of patients in different periods were detected. The total protein (TP) content in group C (62.3 ± 3.3 g/L and 64.3 ± 2.88 g/L) was remarkably higher than that in the control group (51.3 ± 3.17 g/L and 52.4 ± 3.17 g/L) and group A (52.6 ± 2.91 g/L and 51.8 ± 2.98 g/L)) at the 5th and 7th weeks after the treatment (P < 0.05). The albumin (ALB) content in group C (42.9 ± 3.28 g/L and 45.3 ± 3.1 g/L) was signally higher than that in the control group (41.8 ± 3.44 g/L and 41.9 ± 3.23 g/L) and group A (41.3 ± 2.91 g/L and 42.1 ± 3.02 g/L) at the 5th and 7th weeks after the treatment, and the content was markedly higher than that in group B at 5th week (P < 0.05). The wound healing rates of group C at the 3rd, 5th, and 7th weeks after the treatment (38.44%, 56.6%, and 90.23%) were greatly higher than those of the control group, group A, and group B (P < 0.05). Besides, the wound healing rate of group B was higher than that of the control group and group A (40.3% and 75.8%) at the 5th and 7th weeks after the treatment (P < 0.05). To sum up, based on regenerative medical technology, microneedle injection (microneedling is a derma roller process that pricks the skin with minuscule needles. The goal of the treatment is to develop new collagen and skin tissue, resulting in skin that is smoother, firmer, and more toned) combined with blood transfusion had a good therapeutic effect on patients with severe anemia complicated with vitiligo, which could manifestly improve the blood indexes and skin plaques of patients, with a good clinical adoption effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao He
- Blood Transfusion Department, Beidahuang Group General Hospital, Harbin, 150088 Heilongjiang, China
| | - Li Gong
- Department of Dermatology, The First Hospital of Heilongjiang Harbin, Harbin, 150010 Heilongjiang, China
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Menon D, Bril V. Pharmacotherapy of Generalized Myasthenia Gravis with Special Emphasis on Newer Biologicals. Drugs 2022; 82:865-887. [PMID: 35639288 PMCID: PMC9152838 DOI: 10.1007/s40265-022-01726-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Myasthenia gravis (MG) is a chronic, fluctuating, antibody-mediated autoimmune disorder directed against the post-synaptic neuromuscular junctions of skeletal muscles, resulting in a wide spectrum of manifestations ranging from mild to potentially fatal. Given its unique natural course, designing an ideal trial design for MG has been wrought with difficulties and evidence in favour of several of the conventional agents is weak as per current standards. Despite this, acetylcholinesterases and corticosteroids have remained the cornerstones of treatment for several decades with intravenous immunoglobulins (IVIG) and therapeutic plasma exchange (PLEX) offering rapid treatment response, especially in crises. However, the treatment of MG entails long-term immunosuppression and conventional agents are viable options but take longer to act and have a number of class-specific adverse effects. Advances in immunology, translational medicine and drug development have seen the emergence of several newer biological agents which offer selective, target-specific immunotherapy with fewer side effects and rapid onset of action. Eculizumab is one of the newer agents that belong to the class of complement inhibitors and has been approved for the treatment of refractory general MG. Zilucoplan and ravulizumab are other agents in this group in clinical trials. Neisseria meningitis is a concern with all complement inhibitors, mandating vaccination. Neonatal Fc receptor (FcRn) inhibitors prevent immunoglobulin recycling and cause rapid reduction in antibody levels. Efgartigimod is an FcRn inhibitor recently approved for MG treatment, and rozanolixizumab, nipocalimab and batoclimab are other agents in clinical trial development. Although lacking high quality evidence from randomized clinical trials, clinical experience with the use of anti-CD20 rituximab has led to its use in refractory MG. Among novel targets, interleukin 6 (IL6) inhibitors such as satralizumab are promising and currently undergoing evaluation. Cutting-edge therapies include genetically modifying T cells to recognise chimeric antigen receptors (CAR) and chimeric autoantibody receptors (CAAR). These may offer sustained and long-term remissions, but are still in very early stages of evaluation. Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) allows immune resetting and offers sustained remission, but the induction regimens often involve serious systemic toxicity. While MG treatment is moving beyond conventional agents towards target-specific biologicals, lack of knowledge as to the initiation, maintenance, switching, tapering and long-term safety profile necessitates further research. These concerns and the high financial burden of novel agents may hamper widespread clinical use in the near future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deepak Menon
- Department of Neurology, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, Bangalore, India
| | - Vera Bril
- Ellen and Martin Prosserman Centre for Neuromuscular Diseases, University Health Network, 5EC-309, Toronto General Hospital, University of Toronto, 200 Elizabeth St, Toronto, M5G 2C4, Canada.
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11
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Beitl K, Holzer I, Körmöczi GF, Hein AV, Förster J, Seemann R, Ott J, Ulm B. Maternal bleeding complications in pregnancies affected by red blood cell alloimmunization. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2022; 271:271-277. [PMID: 35259645 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2022.02.178] [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: 11/29/2021] [Revised: 02/22/2022] [Accepted: 02/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate whether women with red blood cell (RBC)1 alloimmunization are more likely to experience bleeding complications during pregnancy or delivery than women without RBC alloimmunization. STUDY DESIGN Retrospective study involving all singleton pregnancies affected by RBC alloimmunization and without pre-existing maternal bleeding disorders or placenta previa, from 1 July 1999 to 30 June 2019 ("cases"). Only bleedings not related to invasive procedures (amnio- or cordocenteses) were included. Patients who were already at increased risk of pre- or perinatal bleeding due to their medical history (pre-existing bleeding disorders, antithrombotic therapy), or known obstetrics parameters (placental abnormalities etc.) were not included a priori. Cases were compared to controls without RBC alloimmunization, matched for maternal age and body mass index, from the same tertiary referral center in Austria. RESULTS 130 cases were compared to 130 controls. Cases had significantly more previous pregnancies and miscarriages and their newborns had lower birthweight and were more often transferred to the intensive care unit than newborns of controls. 18/130 (13.8%) cases, compared to 8/130 (6.2%) controls experienced any bleeding during pregnancy or delivery (p = 0.061). Bleeding most often happened during the third trimester (cases: 4.6% vs. controls 0.8%, p = 0.12) and during or after delivery (cases: 7.7% vs. controls: 4.6%, p = 0.168). Binary logistic regression for the prediction of any bleeding complication during pregnancy, delivery or postpartum revealed immunization against RBC antigens as the only independent contributor (p = 0.04). Age, smoking, or previous obstetric history had no influence on the likelihood of maternal bleeding complications. Neither RBC antibody specificity nor titers were predictive of maternal bleeding during pregnancy or delivery. CONCLUSION Pregnancies affected by RBC alloimmunization might be at increased risk of maternal bleeding complications during pregnancy and delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Klara Beitl
- Medical University of Vienna, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Austria
| | - Iris Holzer
- Medical University of Vienna, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Austria.
| | - Günther F Körmöczi
- Medical University of Vienna, Department of Blood Group Serology and Transfusion Medicine, Austria
| | | | - Judit Förster
- Medical University of Vienna, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Austria
| | - Rudolf Seemann
- Medical University of Vienna, Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Austria
| | - Johannes Ott
- Medical University of Vienna, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Austria
| | - Barbara Ulm
- Medical University of Vienna, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Austria
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12
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Rieneck K, Clausen FB, Bergholt T, Nørgaard LN, Dziegiel MH. Non-Invasive Fetal K Status Prediction: 7 Years of Experience. Transfus Med Hemother 2022; 49:240-249. [PMID: 36159959 PMCID: PMC9421691 DOI: 10.1159/000521604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction In the Kell blood group system, the K and k antigens are the clinically most important ones. Maternal anti-K IgG antibodies can lead to the demise of a K-positive fetus in early pregnancy. Intervention can save the fetus. Prenatal K status prediction of the fetus in early pregnancy is desirable and gives a good basis for pregnancy risk management. We present the results from 7 years of clinical experience in predicting fetal K status as well as some theoretical considerations relevant for design of the assay and evaluation of results. Methods Blood was collected from 43 women, all immunized against K, at a mean gestational age of 18 weeks (range 10–38). A total of 56 consecutive samples were tested. The KEL *01.01 /KEL *02 single nucleotide variant that determines K status was amplified from maternal plasma DNA by PCR without allele specificity. The PCR product was sequenced by NGS technology, and the number of sequenced KEL *01.01 and KEL *02 reads were counted. Prediction of the fetal K status was based on this count and was compared with the serologically determined K status of the newborns. Results All fetal K predictions were in accordance with postnatal serology where available (n = 34), using our current data analysis. Conclusion We have developed an NGS-based method for the non-invasive prediction of fetal K status. This approach requires special considerations in terms of primer design, stringent preanalytical sample handling, and careful analytical procedures. We analyzed samples starting at GA 10 weeks and demonstrated the correct prediction of fetal K status. This assay enables timely clinical intervention in pregnancies at risk of hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn caused by maternal anti-K IgG antibodies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Klaus Rieneck
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- *Klaus Rieneck,
| | | | - Thomas Bergholt
- Department of Obstetrics, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | - Morten Hanefeld Dziegiel
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Caudill JL, Gillard L. HDFN Resulting from Anti-U: Alternatives to Allogeneic Intrauterine Transfusion. Lab Med 2021; 53:e79-e82. [PMID: 34791347 DOI: 10.1093/labmed/lmab099] [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: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn (HDFN) carries significant fetal mortality risks. Although anti-D as a source of HDFN has been prevented for decades using D-specific immunoglobulin to prevent alloimmunization between fetus and mother, minor blood groups may still result in disease, with potentially disastrous consequences if left untreated. Strategies such as intrauterine transfusion, early delivery, and vigilant serologic monitoring of fetal anemia have been the standards of care for alloimmunized patients, but beyond this not much more is possible. Mothers with rare phenotypes who are alloimmunized against extremely common red blood cell antigens may find access to rare antigen-negative blood units limited. This case study presents a healthy G10P6 woman with known anti-U presenting for treatment via intrauterine transfusion in the second trimester and follows the patient through successful delivery. Difficulties in obtaining rare blood for the patient because of concomitant delivery events involving 2 patients with anti-U at the facility opened discussions about the difficulties of and alternatives to intrauterine transfusion where rare blood phenotypes are involved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jamie L Caudill
- Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
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