The diagnosis and management of factor VIII and IX inhibitors: a guideline from the United Kingdom Haemophilia Centre Doctors Organisation

Extensive ecchymosis and retroperitoneal hemorrhage due to acquired hemophilia-A following influenza vaccination: A case report

INTRODUCTION

Acquired hemophilia-A (AHA) is a rare but potentially life-threatening impaired coagulation disorder characterized by the development of autoantibodies against clotting factor VIII. Only a few case reports have been experienced with influenza vaccine-triggered AHA. Here, we report a case of severe hemorrhagic disorder due to AHA following influenza vaccine, which was successfully treated.

PATIENT CONCERNS

The patient presented to the emergency department because of several severe, progressively worsening bruises after receiving the influenza vaccination. Consequently, the patient required intubation due to nasal-oral bleeding, which compromised the airway, and retroperitoneal hemorrhage with shock also developed.

DIAGNOSIS

AHA was confirmed through a coagulation factor assay, including coagulation activity and antibody testing, which is possibly triggered by influenza vaccination.

INTERVENTION

Low-dose cyclophosphamide and hydrocortisone were prescribed until activated partial thromboplastin time showed normal levels. Coagulation factor VIIa was administered, and aggressive blood transfusion was carried out concurrently to address the blood loss.

OUTCOMES

The upper airway bleeding subsided and bleeding tendencies had been corrected to normal. The patient was smoothly weaned from the ventilator and recovered from critical illness. She was then discharged on the 19th day.

LESSONS

The activated partial thromboplastin time mixing test can be performed immediately to establish the initial differential diagnosis and treatment plan for severe coagulopathy. AHA may be triggered by vaccination, with the hypothesis of activation of autoantibodies and molecular mimicry; this mechanism should be further studied.

Anti-Thrombin IgA in a Patient with Multiple Myeloma Leading to In Vitro Interference in Multiple Coagulation Tests and Confounding Diagnosis

BACKGROUND

 We report the case of a 59-year-old multiple myeloma patient in whom an anti-human thrombin IgA antibody led to prolonged in vitro coagulation times, suggesting inhibitors to all intrinsic coagulation factors in the absence of spontaneous bleeding.

METHODS

 Routine and extensive special coagulation tests, in vivo bleeding time, and specific antibody testing were performed.

RESULTS

 Although the patient did not suffer from spontaneous bleeding and had a normal in vivo bleeding time, the anti-human thrombin IgA autoantibody affected all coagulation assays involving human thrombin in vitro, mimicking inhibitors to intrinsic coagulation factors. As the IgA paraprotein and the IgA antibody virtually disappeared after autologous stem cell transplantation, the coagulation tests also largely normalized.

CONCLUSION

 Antibodies to human thrombin may interfere with all coagulation assays involving thrombin, imitating a severe coagulopathy. However, in vivo they do not necessarily lead to strongly increased bleeding tendency. Complex and ambiguous coagulation abnormalities should be evaluated and treated in an interdisciplinary setting, including a highly specialized coagulation laboratory, from the beginning.

Race, ethnicity, and immune tolerance induction in hemophilia A in the United States

Background

In racially diverse communities, treatment of chronic diseases can vary across racial and ethnic groups.

Objectives

To examine healthcare disparities in hemophilia care in the United States by evaluating receipt of immune tolerance induction (ITI) among different racial and ethnic groups.

Methods

In this cross-sectional study, people with severe hemophilia A with an inhibitor who entered the Center for Disease Control and Prevention Community Counts registry between 2013 and 2017, were aged ≥5 years at study entry, and had a history of an inhibitor (n = 614) were included. The proportion of participants receiving ITI was examined according to race and ethnicity in bivariable analysis and multivariable analysis adjusting for demographic and clinical covariates. Unadjusted and adjusted prevalence ratios and corresponding 95% CIs were computed.

Results

Among 614 participants included in the study, 56.4% were non-Hispanic (NH) White, 19.7% were NH Black, 18.4% were Hispanic, and 4.9% were Asian. ITI was received by 85.2% of participants. On bivariable analysis, ITI treatment did not vary by race or ethnicity. On multivariable analysis, NH Black and Hispanic participants were significantly less likely to receive ITI compared to NH White participants (adjusted prevalence ratio, 0.91 [95% CI, 0.84-0.99] and 0.84 [95% CI, 0.75-0.93], respectively).

Conclusion

Although the role of ITI may evolve with growing use of emicizumab and the introduction of new hemophilia treatment products, understanding characteristics that influence care, particularly race and ethnicity, where physician bias and patient mistrust can occur, will remain relevant and applicable to other complex therapies, including gene therapy.

Efficacy, safety and cost of emicizumab prophylaxis in haemophilia A patients with inhibitors: A nationwide observational study in Taiwan

INTRODUCTION

Emicizumab mimicking the cofactor function of activated factor VIII (FVIII) restores haemostasis.

METHODS

This nationwide observational study aimed to retrospectively investigate efficacy, safety, and cost in 1 year before and up to 3 years after emicizumab prophylaxis for haemophilia A (HA) patients with FVIII inhibitors.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

A total of 39 severe HA patients with a median age of 23.0 years were enrolled. The median historical peak FVIII inhibitor titre was 174.2 BU/mL with an interquartile range of 56.5-578.8 BU/mL. The median annualized bleeding rate reduced from 24 to 0 events in the first year after emicizumab prophylaxis (p < .01) and sustained in the second and third years. The median annualized joint bleeding rate reduced to 0 and maintained up to 3 years (p < .01). Twenty-seven patients (69.2%) had target joints before emicizumab prophylaxis and only seven patients (17.9%) of them had target joints after prophylaxis. Medical costs, including cost of haemostatic therapy, frequency of outpatient department visits, emergency room visits and hospital admission, were significantly reduced after emicizumab prophylaxis (p < .01). FVIII inhibitor titre decreased after emicizumab prophylaxis. Overall, three (7.7%) patients experienced 202 grade 1 drug-related adverse events after emicizumab prophylaxis. No serious adverse events were reported during emicizumab prophylaxis period. The adherence to emicizumab prophylaxis was 100% up to 3 years.

CONCLUSIONS

HA patients with FVIII inhibitors treated with emicizumab prophylaxis resulted in a significant reduction in treated bleeds and associated costs. No new safety events were observed.

A prospective, multicenter, open-label phase III study of emicizumab prophylaxis in patients with acquired hemophilia A

BACKGROUND

Emicizumab is a bispecific antibody that mimics the cofactor function of activated factor (F) VIII. It prevents bleeds in patients with congenital hemophilia A regardless of the inhibitor status; however, no prospective clinical studies have been conducted for emicizumab in patients with acquired hemophilia A (PwAHA).

OBJECTIVES

To describe the primary analysis results from a prospective, multicenter, open-label phase III study evaluating the efficacy, safety, and pharmacokinetics of emicizumab in PwAHA (AGEHA; JapicCTI-205151).

METHODS

Emicizumab was administered subcutaneously at 6 mg/kg on day 1 and 3 mg/kg on day 2, followed by 1.5 mg/kg once weekly from day 8 onward. Predefined criteria for the completion of dosing included FVIII activity of >50 IU/dL.

RESULTS

By the cutoff date (April 23, 2021), 12 patients on immunosuppressive therapy were enrolled, and 11 of them (91.7%) completed emicizumab treatment. The mean trough plasma emicizumab concentration rapidly reached a steady state (1 week), achieving the efficacious level that was established in patients with congenital hemophilia A (>30 μg/mL). Before first emicizumab administration, 7 patients (58.3%) experienced 77 major bleeds. During emicizumab treatment, no major bleeds occurred in any patient. Neither death due to bleeding or infection nor any study treatment-related serious adverse event was reported. One asymptomatic, nonserious deep vein thrombosis was discovered with no laboratory findings indicating any trend toward hypercoagulation.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that emicizumab prophylaxis with the tested dosing regimen and completion criteria may have a favorable benefit-risk profile in PwAHA.

Acquired Hemophilia A: An Update on the Etiopathogenesis, Diagnosis, and Treatment

Acquired haemophilia A (AHA) is a rare bleeding disorder caused by inhibitory autoantibodies against coagulation factor VIII (FVIII). AHA is a disease that most commonly affects the elderly but has also been observed in children and in the postpartum period. AHA is idiopathic in 50% of cases and is associated with autoimmune diseases, malignancies, and infections in the remaining 50%. Recently, cases of association between AHA, COVID-19 vaccination, and infection have been reported in the literature. For diagnoses, determining FVIII levels is crucial to distinguish the different causes of aPTT prolongation. Treatment of AHA is based on bypassing agents (recombinant factor VIIa, activated prothrombin complex concentrate) and porcine FVIII to control the bleeding and immunosuppressive therapy (corticosteroids, rituximab, cyclophosphamide) to suppress autoantibody production. It is important to start a prophylactic regimen to prevent further bleeding episodes until the inhibitor is negative. Recently, the series of cases reported in the literature suggest that emicizumab may provide effective and safe haemorrhage prophylaxis in the outpatient setting.

Combined immunosuppression for acquired hemophilia A: CyDRi is a highly effective low-toxicity regimen

Acquired hemophilia A (AHA) is a rare severe autoimmune bleeding disorder with significant morbidity and mortality. Although critical for disease control, there is no consensus for the best immunosuppressive regimen. Most authors use steroids first line, followed by other agents for steroid failures. Upfront combined regimens offer the advantage of reduced steroid exposure and toxicity as well as increased efficacy. We retrospectively analyzed data from 32 patients with AHA treated on an identical such institutional protocol: cyclophosphamide 1000 mg on days 1 and 22, dexamethasone 40 mg on days 1, 8, 15, and 22, and rituximab 100 mg on days 1, 8, 15, and 22 (the regimen was termed CyDRi). All patients received at least 1 cycle of CyDRi. If necessary, CyDRi was repeated until remission, no sooner than day 43 of the previous cycle. Bleeding control was rapidly achieved. The median time for bleeding control was 15.5 days (range, 0-429 days; interquartile range, 2.5-29.5 days). Thirty-one (96.8%) of 32 patients achieved durable complete remission (CR); 29 (90.6%) of 32 patients were alive at last follow-up, all of them in CR. The median time to reach first CR was 77 days (range, 19-939 days; interquartile range, 31-115 days). Toxicity and side effects were acceptable and milder than those of commonly used, prolonged steroid therapies. In conclusion, the CyDRi regimen produced markedly higher CR rates and overall survival than currently used sequential regimens. Taken together, CyDRi proved to be an attractive option for the immunosuppression of elderly patients with AHA.

Selective Microvascular Tissue Transfection Using Minicircle DNA for Systemic Delivery of Human Coagulation Factor IX in a Rat Model Using a Therapeutic Flap

BACKGROUND

Gene therapy is a promising treatment for protein deficiency disorders such as hemophilia B. However, low tissue selectivity and efficacy are limitations of systemic vector delivery. The authors hypothesized that selective transfection of rat superficial inferior epigastric artery flaps could provide systemic delivery of coagulation factor IX, preventing the need for systemic vector administration.

METHODS

Minicircle DNA containing green fluorescent protein, firefly luciferase, and human coagulation factor IX was created. Vector constructs were validated by transfecting adipose-derived stromal cells isolated from Wistar rat superficial inferior epigastric artery flaps and evaluating transgene expression by fluorescence microscopy, bioluminescence, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Minicircle DNA luciferase (10 and 30 μg) was injected into murine (wild-type, C57/BL/6) inguinal fat pads (n = 3) and followed by in vivo bioluminescence imaging for 60 days. Wistar rat superficial inferior epigastric artery flaps were transfected with minicircle DNA human coagulation factor IX (n = 9) with plasma and tissue transgene expression measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay at 2 and 4 weeks.

RESULTS

Transfected adipose-derived stromal cells expressed green fluorescent protein for 30 days, luciferase for 43 days, and human coagulation factor IX (21.9 ± 1.2 ng/ml) for 28 days in vitro. In vivo murine studies demonstrated dose-dependence between minicircle DNA delivery and protein expression. Ex vivo rat superficial inferior epigastric artery flap transfection with minicircle DNA human coagulation factor IX showed systemic transgene expression at 2 (266.6 ± 23.4 ng/ml) and 4 weeks (290.1 ± 17.1 ng/ml) compared to control tissue (p < 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

Rat superficial inferior epigastric artery flap transfection using minicircle DNA human coagulation factor IX resulted in systemic transgene detection, suggesting that selective flap or angiosome-based tissue transfection may be explored as a treatment for systemic protein deficiency disorders such as hemophilia B.

Acquired Hemophilia A Presenting with Infectious Aortic Aneurysms Due to an Underlying Helicobacter cinaedi Infection

Acquired hemophilia A (AHA) is a bleeding disorder caused by the acquired appearance of inhibitor for factor VIII. Approximately half of all patients with AHA have some type of underlying disease. We herein report the case of a 72-year-old Japanese man with AHA who presented with infectious aortic aneurysms due to an underlying Helicobacter cinaedi infection. To our knowledge, this is the first report of AHA triggered by a bacterial infection; however, there may be similar cases that remain undiagnosed because this pathogen is difficult to identify. Clinicians should consider the possibility of H. cinaedi as a causative pathogen in patients presenting with a fever of unknown origin.

Unexplained hemorrhagic syndrome? Consider acquired hemophilia A or B

There is a dire need to develop an algorithm to improve the recognition of acquired hemophilia A and B (AHA and AHB) in clinical practice. Initial and intensive care unit (ICU) management of the disorder is particular and represents a challenge for the internist/hematologist and the ICU physician. A delay in the proper treatment of bleeding episodes can lead to a life-threatening event. Expert advice should be sought as soon as possible. Succesful resolution involves accurate diagnosis, bleeding control with hemostatic and immunotherapy, and eradication of the autoantibodies to improve overall survival. Current treatment guidelines are based on the literature in the form of cases and observational studies due to a lack of randomized controlled trials. AH can be triggered by many pathologies, presenting as a paraneoplastic syndrome in case of malignancies or as surgical associated acquired hemophilia (SAHA). We have reviewed the literature from 2015 to 2021 regarding the new case reports to further assess if there is an improvement in the clinical approach.

Congenital hemophilia A with low activity of factor XII: a case report and literature review

BACKGROUND

Congenital hemophilia A is a recessive inherited hemorrhagic disorder. According to the activity of functional coagulation factors, the severity of hemophilia A is divided into three levels: mild, moderate and severe. The first bleeding episode in severe and moderate congenital hemophilia A occurs mostly in early childhood and mainly involves soft tissue and joint bleeds. At present, there are limited reports on severe congenital hemophilia A with low factor XII (FXII) activity during the neonatal period.

CASE PRESENTATION

A 13-day-old neonate was admitted to the hospital with hematoma near the joints of both upper arms. Coagulation tests showed he had low activity of factor VIII (FVIII) and FXII. He was diagnosed with congenital hemophilia A and treated with human coagulation factor VIII (recombinant FVIII). Although the hematoma became smaller, FVIII activity was only increased to a certain extent and FXII activity decreased gradually. Unfortunately, the child responded poorly to recombinant human coagulation factor VIII and his guardian rejected prophylactic inhibitors and genetic testing and refused further treatment. Three months later, the child developed intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) due to low FVIII activity.

CONCLUSIONS

In hemophilia A, the presence of FVIII inhibitors, drug concentration and testing are three important aspects that must be considered when FVIII activity does not reach the desired level. Early positive disease treatment and prophylaxis can decrease the frequency of bleeding and improve quality of life. We recommend that pregnant women with a family history of hemophilia A undergo early prenatal and neonatal genetic testing.

Acquired Hemophilia A

Acquired hemophilia A is a potentially severe bleeding disorder caused by antibodies against the patient's own factor VIII. Acquired hemophilia A is rare. It is most commonly diagnosed in older individuals; about one-half of cases of acquired hemophilia are associated with underlying conditions, including autoimmune disease, cancer, and pregnancy. The diagnosis of acquired hemophilia A can be suspect with an isolated activated partial thromboplastin time elevation, and confirmed with demonstration of reduced factor VIII activity and the presence of a specific factor VIII inhibitor. Treatment of acquired hemophilia A involves control of bleeding, and eradication of the inhibitor.

Rituximab for eradicating inhibitors in people with acquired haemophilia A

BACKGROUND

Acquired haemophilia A is a rare bleeding disorder caused by the development of specific autoantibodies against coagulation factor VIII. Standard treatment, usually steroids alone, or in combination with cyclophosphamide, aims to stop acute bleeds by using haemostatic agents to promote clotting. Rituximab may be an alternative approach to the treatment of acquired haemophilia by eradicating FVIII autoantibodies. This is an update of a previously published Cochrane Review.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the efficacy and adverse effects of rituximab for treating people with acquired haemophilia A.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched the Cochrane Cystic Fibrosis and Genetic Disorders Group's trials registers, comprising references identified from comprehensive electronic database searches and handsearches of relevant journals and conference proceedings (January 2021). We also undertook searches of CENTRAL, MEDLINE and online trial registries (January 2021).

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomised and quasi-randomised controlled trials of rituximab for people with acquired haemophilia A, with no restrictions on gender, age or ethnicity.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

No trials matching the selection criteria were eligible for inclusion.

MAIN RESULTS

No trials matching the selection criteria were eligible for inclusion.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

We found no randomised clinical trials of rituximab for acquired haemophilia A. Thus, we are not able to draw any conclusions or make any recommendations on rituximab for eradicating inhibitors in people with acquired haemophilia A based on the highest quality evidence. Given that undertaking randomised controlled trials in this field is a complex task, we suggest that, while planning such trials, clinicians treating the disease continue to base their choices on alternative, lower-quality sources of evidence. In a future update of this review, we plan to appraise and incorporate eligible randomised controlled trials, as well as other high-quality, non-randomised studies.

Single centre experience on Acquired Haemophilia A patients: Diagnosis, clinical management and analysis of factors predictive of response and outcome

BACKGROUND

Acquired Haemophilia A (AHA) patients show a high response rate to immunosuppressive therapy (IST) but few information about predictors of response and outcome are reported.

AIMS

We describe a large single-centre AHA cohort, investigating prognostic variables for the 'best response' (BR), time to BR (TTBR) and overall survival (OS).

METHODS

A total of 61 patients were included, collecting data from clinical charts.

RESULTS

A progressive increase in diagnoses, from 1978 to 2019, was observed. Fifty/56 patients (89%) underwent haemostatic therapy (rFVIIa 46%, aPCC 34%) with no significant differences in the response (rFVIIa 92.3% vs aPCC 100%) and no thromboembolic events. Sixty/61 patients underwent first-line IST with an initial response rate of 58.4%. The 12-months OS was 85%, the bleeding associated mortality rate 3% (2/61). The response rates at last observation were: CR 64%, PR 8%. We evaluated the influence of age, gender, associated conditions, IST, haemoglobin levels, FVIII:C, inhibitor titre on BR, TTBR and OS: post-partum AHA achieved the BR after a longer time than AHA related to other aetiologies or idiopathic (p = .05); in univariate analysis female sex (p = .03) and the achievement of BR (p = .001) had a positive impact on the OS while AHA secondary to neoplasms showed a shorter survival (p = .04); only the BR achievement remained significant in multivariate analysis (p = .02).

CONCLUSIONS

Our data on response and survival confirmed those from the main registries. Post-partum AHA and BR achievement were significantly associated to a longer TTBR and a longer OS, respectively. Other predictors of outcome deserve to be explored in prospective studies.

Transplacental hemophilia A and prophylactic treatment with intravenous immunoglobulin and recombinant factor VIIa in the newborn period: a case report

Acquired hemophilia due to inhibitor antibodies to factor VIII (FVIII) is a very rare entity in neonatal period. Maternal IgG antibodies may cross the placenta and can cause life-threatening hemorrhages in newborns. Here, we represent a newborn who diagnosed as a transplacental acquired hemophilia A. A very high titer of inhibitor level (320 Nijmegen-Bethesda unit) was detected in plasma due to transplasental transfer in this case. According to the best of our knowledge the baby had the highest inhibitor level in neonatal period in the literature. Bleeding complications including intracranial hemorrhage secondary to this condition were reported before. Therefore, to prevent possible life complications, prophylactic recombinant FVIIa was administered in the presenting case and any bleeding event was not observed during follow-up. In conclusion, using prophylactic recombinant FVIIa in newborns is a safe choice for transplacental acquired hemophilia A.

Acquired haemophilia A in the postpartum and risk of relapse in subsequent pregnancies: A systematic literature review

BACKGROUND

About 1%-5% of acquired haemophilia A cases affect mothers in the postpartum setting.

AIMS

This study delineates the characteristics of this disease, specific to the postpartum setting, notably relapse in subsequent pregnancies.

METHODS

Report of two cases and literature study (1946-2019), yielding 73 articles describing 174 cases (total 176 cases).

RESULTS

Patients were aged 29.9 years (17-41) and 69% primigravidae. Diagnosis was made at a median of 60 days after delivery (range 0-308). Bleeding types were obstetrical (43.4%), cutaneous (41.3%), and muscular (36.7%). In >90% of the cases, FVIII at diagnosis was <1% (range 0%-8%). FVIII inhibitor was documented in 75.4% cases (median titre of 20 BU/ml, range 1-621). Haemostatic treatment was necessary in 57.1% using fresh frozen plasma (16%), factor concentrate (27.6%) and/or bypassing agents (37.4%). Immunosuppressive treatment was administered in 90.8%, mostly steroids (85.3%), alone or combined with immunosuppressants (27%). Rituximab was used mostly as a second line treatment. Only 24 patients (13.6%) had documented subsequent pregnancies and 6 (22.2%) suffered haemophilia recurrence during pregnancy.

CONCLUSION

This study allows better definition of: (1) clinical and laboratory characteristics of postpartum acquired haemophilia, (2) response to therapy, and (3) the risk of relapse for subsequent pregnancies.

Perioperative Bypassing Agent Therapy for Pulmonary Pleomorphic Carcinoma with Acquired Hemophilia

A 74-year-old man was admitted with lung cancer, and preoperative blood test showed abnormal activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT). Coagulation factor screening and APTT mixing test achieved a diagnosis of acquired hemophilia A (AHA). Bypassing agent therapy was indicated and lobectomy was successfully performed without bleeding complications. APTT returned to normal after the operation without any additional treatment for AHA. The pathogenesis of AHA is still unknown and there is no evidence for hemostatic strategy for AHA patients requiring surgery. This study supports the importance of hemostatic therapy and suggests that malignancy might cause AHA.

Inhibitor Index in the Clot Waveform Analysis-Based Mixing Test Differentiates among Hemophilia A without and with Inhibitors, and Lupus Anticoagulant

BACKGROUND

 The mixing test is used to identify the pathway to follow-up testing and is also useful for the investigation of lupus anticoagulant (LA) positivity. "To completely correct" indicates clotting factor deficiency, while "to not correct" indicates the presence of a clotting factor inhibitor including LA. "Index of circulation anticoagulant" and/or "percent correction" is used to interpret the results of mixing studies, but it does not accurately differentiate factor inhibitors from LA.

AIM

 To precisely differentiate hemophilia A (HA), HA with inhibitor (HA-inh), and LA using the clot waveform analysis (CWA)-based mixing test.

METHODS

 Plasma samples from HA, LA, and HA-inh including acquired HA were incubated with normal plasma in 9:1, 1:1, and 1:9 mix ratios. From activated partial thromboplastin time CWA at 0-minute (immediately) and 12-minute incubation, the ratios of CWA parameters at 12 minutes/0 minute (inhibitor index) were assessed.

RESULTS

 The inhibitor index values of CWA parameters obtained using the mixing test in a 1:1 ratio demonstrated a significant difference between HA-inh and LA but could not differentiate LA from HA-inh completely. Plasmas used for the mixing tests in 9:1 and 1:9 ratios were able to fully distinguish between HA-inh (>0.5 BU/mL) and LA. These indices significantly correlated with inhibitor titer below 40 BU/mL (r > 0.90), possibly estimating FVIII inhibitor titer from the inhibitor index. Plasmas in HA and LA could be distinguished by mixing in a 1:1 ratio at 0 minute (immediately).

CONCLUSION

 The inhibitor index from CWA-based mixing tests with a 12-minute incubation could differentiate among HA, HA-inh, and LA quickly.

Patients' Perception of the Impact of Innovation on Hemophilia Care Management Organization: A Qualitative Study Protocol (INNOVHEMO Study)

BACKGROUND

New therapies provide a favorable evolution in the care management of persons with hemophilia. However, the impact of these new therapies on patient care organization remains to be determined. A qualitative study will be implemented to analyze patients' perception regarding the impact of innovation on the organization of their care management. Secondary objectives will include refining specific factors related to persons with hemophilia (barriers or facilitators, especially the place of treatment) to consider within an organizational impact analysis.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Semi-structured individual interviews will be conducted via videoconferencing or by phone by two researchers using an interview guide. Participants will be recruited from the Rhône-Alpes region, in France. Physicians from two hemophilia treatment centers will identify eligible patients. Moreover, a call for volunteers will be launched by the Rhône-Alpes committee of the French hemophilia association. Interviews will be conducted with adult patients, adolescent patients or parents of a minor with hemophilia regularly treated prophylactically or on demand. Data analysis will be performed with NVivo^® software. Each interview will be analyzed by two researchers using an inductive content analytic method.

DISCUSSION

The INNOVHEMO study is an original study analyzing the way patients perceive the impact of an innovation on their care management organization. The resulting patient-specific factors, identified as barriers or facilitators, will need to be integrated into a more comprehensive analysis of the impact of innovation on care management organization.

Bullous pemphigoid is a common associated disorder with acquired haemophilia A

Although the estimated incidence of acquired haemophilia A (AHA) in Singapore is similar to those reported in the literature, we have observed differences in the frequency of their associated diseases, particularly bullous pemphigoid (BP). We investigated the actual incidence of BP among our AHA cohort, their clinical characteristics and treatment outcomes. 6 out of 37 (16%) patients with AHA had BP, making it the most common underlying disorder in our cohort. The median age at diagnosis of AHA was 76 years old with a female preponderance. Most patients had their AHA diagnosed after BP with the median time between BP to AHA diagnosis being 107.5 days. Initial haemostasis was achieved, and factor VIII inhibitor was eliminated in all patients with a median time of disappearance being 52 days. Two patients had recurrence of their factor VIII inhibitor during the tapering of their immunosuppression. There was no relationship between the relapse of BP and AHA. This study suggests that BP is a common association with AHA. These patients respond well to bypassing agent and immunosuppression. However, they have a higher recurrence of factor VIII inhibitor and should be monitored closely for relapse during the tapering period of their immunosuppression.

Cost of patients with hemophilia A treated with standard half-life or extended half-life FVIII in Spain

BACKGROUND

In a real-world analysis (RWA) conducted in the United States (US), median international units (IUs) of extended half-life (EHL) recombinant coagulation factor VIII (rFVIII) dispensed were 10% to 45% greater than standard half-life (SHL) rFVIII. The mean IUs of each rFVIII dispensed quarterly were obtained from two databases (N = 776).

METHODS

A probabilistic model in a 1-year time horizon was used in order to analyze the cost comparison of SHL and EHL rFVIII products in Spain. In this analysis, mean IUs were those of the RWA, and frequency of use and prices for each rFVIII were obtained from sales estimates based on Spanish sources (IQVIA; €, 2019).

RESULTS

Data showed an average annual savings per patient of €11,227 for SHL rFVIII versus EHL rFVIII products, with a savings probability of 75.5%. The results were stable in the sensitivity analyses. Not switching treatment from SHL to EHL rFVIII resulted in greater savings per patient (€53,078), with a savings probability of 99.9%. Considering the frequency of rFVIII dispensation in the US, annual savings per patient would increase to €16,350 in Spain, with a savings probability of 79.9%.

CONCLUSIONS

According to this model, use of SHL rFVIII versus EHL rFVIII products could lead to savings for the Spanish National Health System.

Acquired Haemophilia A: An Intriguing Disease

Abstract. Acquired Haemophilia A is a rare acquired bleeding disorder caused by Factor VIII autoantibodies, which neutralise FVIII activity. These inhibitors differ from alloantibodies against FVIII, which can occur in congenital Haemophilia A after repeated exposures to plasma-derived or recombinant FVIII products. In most cases, the disease occurs suddenly in subjects without a personal or familiar history of bleedings, with symptoms that may be mild, moderate, or severe. However, only laboratory alterations are present in ~ 30% of patients. The incidence varies from 1 to 4 cases per million/year; more than 80% of patients are elderly, males and females are similarly affected. There is a small peak of incidence related to pregnancy in young women aged 20–40 years. The disease may be underdiagnosed in the elderly. The diagnostic algorithm is based on an isolated prolonged activated partial thromboplastin time, normal thrombin time, absence of Lupus Anticoagulant, and a mixing test that reveals the presence of an inhibitor: the finding of reduced FVIII activity and the detection of neutralising autoantibodies against FVIII lead to the diagnosis. The disease is idiopathic in 44%–63% of cases, while in the others etiological factors are present. Bleeding prevention and treatment are based on therapeutic tools as by-passing agents, recombinant porcine FVIII concentrate or, in a limited number of cases, FVIII concentrates and desmopressin. As soon as the diagnosis has been made, immunosuppressive therapy must be started to eradicate the inhibitor. Better knowledge of the disease, optimal management of bleeding and eradication of the inhibitor have significantly reduced morbidity and mortality in most patients.

International recommendations on the diagnosis and treatment of acquired hemophilia A

Acquired hemophilia A (AHA), a rare bleeding disorder caused by neutralizing autoantibodies against coagulation factor VIII (FVIII), occurs in both men and women without a previous history of bleeding. Patients typically present with an isolated prolonged activated partial thromboplastin time due to FVIII deficiency. Neutralizing antibodies (inhibitors) are detected using the Nijmegen-modified Bethesda assay. Approximately 10% of patients do not present with bleeding and, therefore, a prolonged activated partial thromboplastin time should never be ignored prior to invasive procedures. Control of acute bleeding and prevention of injuries that may provoke bleeding are top priorities in patients with AHA. We recommend treatment with bypassing agents, including recombinant activated factor VII, activated prothrombin complex concentrate, or recombinant porcine FVIII in bleeding patients. Autoantibody eradication can be achieved with immunosuppressive therapy, including corticosteroids, cyclophosphamide and rituximab, or combinations thereof. The median time to remission is 5 weeks, with considerable interindividual variation. FVIII activity at presentation, inhibitor titer and autoantibody isotype are prognostic markers for remission and survival. Comparative clinical studies to support treatment recommendations for AHA do not exist; therefore, we provide practical consensus guidance based on recent registry findings and the authors' clinical experience in treating patients with AHA.

Mixing-based inhibitor screening in haemophilia A: challenges in interpretation

: Inhibitor development in haemophilia A patients is a dreaded complication of factor VIII (FVIII) replacement therapy. With increasing use of FVIII replacement therapy, there is an imperative need for cost-effective and standardized screening. To evaluate the efficacy of mixing-based inhibitor screening (MBIS) in the detection of FVIII inhibitors and to assess the best cut-off values for MBIS. Forty inhibitor positive and 40 inhibitor negative haemophilia A patients, diagnosed by standard criteria, with detailed clinical, haematological and on-demand treatment records were included. MBIS was evaluated in all 80 cases and a classical Bethesda assay and Nijmegen modification of Bethesda assay (NBA) were used as gold standards for inhibitor diagnosis. Classical Bethesda assay missed eight cases, most with low titres, which were confirmed by NBA. A systematic analysis of cut-offs for MBIS using a receiver operating characteristic curve fixed the cut-off at more than 5 s. MBIS detected 36 out of 40 inhibitor positive haemophilia A patients with a sensitivity, specificity, PPV and NPV of 90.0, 95, 94.7, 90.5%, respectively, whereas at the conventional cut-off of more than 10 s, MBIS detected only 25 of 40 cases with a low sensitivity of 62.5%. The likelihood ratio of a positive test was 11. The false-negative haemophilia A patients had low titres from 1.6 to 4.2 BU/ml. MBIS at a cut-off of 5 s can be considered as an effective screening test in low-resource situations. In clinical situations and in cases with clinical evidence of inhibitors we recommend that a direct NBA should be done.

Clinical evaluation of bleeds and response to haemostatic treatment in patients with acquired haemophilia: A global expert consensus statement

BACKGROUND

Acquired haemophilia (AH) is a rare bleeding disorder with significant morbidity and mortality. Most patients initially present to physicians without experience of the disease, delaying diagnosis and potentially worsening outcomes. Existing guidance in AH is limited to clinical opinion of few experts and does not address monitoring bleeds in specific anatomical locations.

AIM

Derive consensus from a large sample of experts around the world in monitoring bleeding patients with AH.

METHODS

Using the Delphi methodology, a structured survey, designed to derive consensus on how to monitor bleeding patients with AH, was developed by a steering committee for completion by a group of haematologists with an interest in AH. Consensus was defined as ≥75% agreement with a given survey statement. After three rounds of survey refinement, a final list of consensus statements was compiled.

RESULTS

Thirty-six global specialists in AH participated. The participants spanned 20 countries and had treated a median of 12.0 (range, 1-50) patients with AH within the preceding 5 years. Consensus was achieved in all items after three survey rounds. In addition to statements on general management of bleeding patients, consensus statements in the following areas were presented: urinary tract, gastrointestinal tract, muscles, skin, joints, nose, pharynx, mouth, intracranial and postpartum.

CONCLUSIONS

Here, we present consensus statements derived from a broad sample of global specialists to address monitoring of location-specific bleeds and evaluating efficacy of bleeding treatment in patients with AH. These statements could be applied in practice by treating physicians and validated by individual population surveys.

Emergency management of patients with bleeding disorders: Practical points for the emergency physician

Emergency department (ED) physicians are often the first point of contact for patients who present with bleeding symptoms. Work up and management of bleeding in the emergency room can be a daunting task as it requires: (1) accurate diagnosis of the bleeding cause, of which there is long list of common and rare etiologies (2); appropriate investigations and interpretation of the results; and (3) timely management of bleeding symptoms to prevent limb- or life-threatening complications. Crucial to the management of a bleeding patient is a thorough yet focused history exploring bleeding symptoms, medications/drugs (anticoagulants, antiplatelets), mechanism of trauma/injury, personal and family history of diagnosed bleeding disorders or bleeding symptoms and recognizing acuity and severity of bleeding that requires immediate intervention. Physical examination should focus on signs of mucocutaneous versus deep tissue or joint bleeding and assessing for structural lesions that may contribute to bleeding symptoms in patients with known bleeding diathesis. In patients with diagnosed bleeding disorders, emergency care cards will usually outline the initial treatment (e.g. clotting factor replacement, DDAVP) which should be administered before pursuing investigations/imaging studies. Special attention must be paid to the patient with recurrent or unexplained bleeding, or unexplained coagulation studies. There should be a low threshold to consult hematology in these cases and involvement of hematology early in managing patients with bleeding disorders to improve outcomes. This paper is directed toward emergency physicians, pediatricians, and general internists and will highlight key concepts in the primary care and work up of diagnosed and undiagnosed bleeding disorders requiring urgent treatment.

Life-Threatening Tongue and Retropharyngeal Hemorrhage in a Patient with Hemophilia A with Inhibitors

Patient: Male, 71

Final Diagnosis: Hemophilia A

Symptoms: Dysarthria • dysphagia • dyspnea

Medication: —

Clinical Procedure: Cricothyrotomy • tracheotomy

Specialty: Hematology

Acquired Hemophilia A: A Case Report

Hemophilia A, also known as factor VIII deficiency, is a rare disorder caused by an insufficient level of factor VIII, an essential clotting protein. Hemophilia A can be inherited or acquired. Inherited hemophilia A is caused by a mutation to the factor VIII gene on the X chromosome, which is commonly passed down from parents to children. However, in about one-third of cases, the cause is a spontaneous mutation in that gene. Acquired hemophilia A is due to an autoantibody to factor VIII, which is termed an inhibitor. This rare disorder can cause life-threatening bleeding complications. Management relies on a rapid and accurate diagnosis, control of bleeding episodes, and eradication of the inhibitor by immunosuppression therapy. Most treatment strategies are centered around anecdotal reports or small case series. This case report summarizes the successful treatment of a patient with acquired hemophilia A and major bleeding following a surgical procedure, with the use of desmopressin, recombinant factor VIIa, repeated doses of recombinant factor VIII, rituximab, and prednisone.

Pharmacokinetic-guided dosing of factor VIII concentrate in a morbidly obese severe haemophilia A patient undergoing orthopaedic surgery

A 58-year-old morbidly obese male (body mass index: 38 kg/m²) with severe haemophilia A underwent total knee replacement surgery. Perioperatively, factor VIII (FVIII) levels were measured daily and maximum a posteriori (MAP) Bayesian estimation was used to calculate the individual pharmacokinetic (PK) parameters and doses required to obtain prescribed FVIII target levels. In the MAP Bayesian procedure, a population PK model was used in which PK parameters were normalised using body weight. In this specific case, ideal body weight was used to scale the PK parameters instead of actual body weight. Except for the preoperative FVIII level, adequate FVIII levels were achieved during the 10-day perioperative period. During follow-up visits, the knee prosthesis was reported to function adequately.

Successful Outcome of Severe Intra-cerebral Bleeding Associated with Acquired Factor V Inhibition: Utilization of Multiple Therapeutic Agents

Background:

Acquired coagulation factor inhibitors are antibodies that either inhibit activity or increase the clearance of a clotting factor and lead to an increased risk of bleeding. Most of the time, the disorder is attributed to factor VIII inhibition (acquired haemophilia A); however, other coagulation factors could also be implicated.

Case Report:

Herein, we report an interesting case of a patient who underwent coronary artery bypass grafting and received antibiotic treatment after surgery with third generation cephalosporin. A month later, he presented with extreme bleeding diathesis and cerebral haemorrhage. Following a thorough clinical and laboratory investigation, an acquired factor V inhibitor was diagnosed. The patient received treatment with corticosteroids, intravenous immunoglobulins, anti-CD20 monoclonal antibodies (rituximab), cyclophosphamide and recombinant factor VIIa. Finally, despite the poor initial prognosis, the patient managed to achieve a full recovery.

Conclusion:

As there are no clear guidelines on acquired coagulation inhibitor treatment, reports of such cases could offer insight for future therapy choices. The case was unique because the treatment regimen included a combination of multiple therapeutic agents including rituximab.

Therapeutic plasma exchange as part of multimodal treatment of acquired hemophilia in a patient with concurrent acute intracerebral bleed and pulmonary embolism

BACKGROUND

Autoantibodies against Factor VIII (FVIII) define the rare but life-threatening bleeding disorder acquired hemophilia A (AHA). Correction of FVIII deficiency and eradication of the factor inhibitor are the ultimate therapeutic goals in this disorder. Bypassing agents such as recombinant factor VIIa (rFVIIa) or FVIII inhibitor bypassing agent are often used to control coagulopathy before the inhibitor is eradicated. Bypassing agents carry a risk of thrombosis, however.

CASE REPORT

We report a patient with newly diagnosed AHA and thalamic bleed who additionally had active atrial fibrillation and developed a segmental pulmonary embolism, limiting tolerable rFVIIa dosage. This patient with very-high-risk brain bleed and concurrent thrombosis on bypass agent represented a significant management dilemma for which we successfully utilized therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) to reduce the inhibitor titer.

RESULTS

FVIII inhibitor was undetectable and FVIII level was above the lower limit of normal within 12.5 days from starting TPE. While the patient ultimately died 24 days from admission for reasons unrelated to bleeding, his intracerebral hemorrhage was unchanged in size and no other bleeding morbidity was observed.

CONCLUSION

This patient achieved eradication of FVIII inhibitor and did not have bleed expansion while receiving multimodal therapy including corticosteroids, rituximab, and TPE. We discuss the periprocedural risks of TPE in an acquired hemophilia patient and our multiteam management of that risk.

Treatment burden, haemostatic strategies and real world inhibitor screening practice in non-severe haemophilia A

Inhibitor formation in non-severe haemophilia A is a life-long risk and associated with morbidity and mortality. There is a paucity of data to understand real-world inhibitor screening practice. We evaluated the treatment burden, haemostatic strategies, F8 genotyping and inhibitor screening practices in non-severe haemophilia A in seven London haemophilia centres. In the 2-year study period, 44% (377/853) patients received at least one haemostatic treatment. Seventy-nine percent of those treated (296/377) received factor VIII (FVIII) concentrate. F8 genotype was known in 88% (331/377) of individuals. Eighteen per cent (58/331) had 'high-risk' F8 genotypes. In patients with 'standard-risk' F8 genotypes treated on-demand with FVIII concentrate, 51·3% episodes (243/474) were screened within 1 year. However, poor screening compliance was observed after 'high-risk' treatment episodes. In patients with 'standard-risk' F8 genotypes, 12·3% (28/227) of treatment episodes were screened in the subsequent 6 weeks after surgery or a bleed requiring ≥5 exposure days. Similarly, in the context of 'high-risk' F8 genotypes after any FVIII exposure, only 13·6% (12/88) of episodes were screened within 6 weeks. Further study is required to assess optimal practice of inhibitor screening in non-severe haemophilia A to inform subsequent clinical decisions and provide more robust prevalence data to further understand the underlying immunological mechanism.

Acquired hemophilia A in a patient treated by Ginkgo-dipyridamolum

Acquired hemophilia A might be caused by Ginkgo‐dipyridamolum especially by Ginkgo, and it was successfully treated with hemostasis and immune‐suppression therapy including methylprednisolone and cyclophosphamide.

Budget Impact Analysis of Prolonged Half-Life Recombinant FVIII Therapy for Hemophilia in the United States

BACKGROUND

Hemophilia A is a factor VIII deficiency, associated with spontaneous, recurrent bleeding episodes. This may lead to comorbidities such as arthropathy and joint replacement, which contribute to morbidity and increased health care expenditure. Recombinant factor VIII Fc fusion protein (rFVIIIFc), a prolonged half-life factor therapy, requires fewer infusions, resulting in reduced treatment burden.

OBJECTIVE

Use a budget impact analysis to assess the potential economic impact of introducing rFVIIIFc to a formulary from the perspective of a private payer in the United States.

METHODS

The budget impact model was developed to estimate the potential economic impact of adding rFVIIIFc to a private payer formulary across a 2-year time period. The eligible patient population consisted of inhibitor-free adults with severe hemophilia A, receiving recombinant-based episodic or prophylaxis treatment regimens. Patients were assumed to switch from conventional recombinant factor treatment to rFVIIIFc. Only medication costs were included in the model.

RESULTS

The introduction of rFVIIIFc is estimated to have a budget impact of 1.4% ($0.12 per member per month) across 2 years for a private payer population of 1,000,000 (estimated 19.7 individuals receiving treatment for hemophilia A). The introduction of rFVIIIFc is estimated to prevent 124 bleeds across 2 years at a cost of $1891 per bleed avoided.

CONCLUSIONS

Hemophilia A is a rare disease with a low prevalence; therefore, the overall cost to society of introducing rFVIIIFc is small. Considerations for comprehensively assessing the budget impact of introducing rFVIIIFc should include episodic and prophylaxis regimens, bleed avoidance, and annual factor consumption required under alternative scenarios.

"Antihemophilic factor is not the only answer for all factor VIII deficiencies." Case report of odontogenic infection in a patient with hemophilia A, complicated by factor VIII inhibitors, and managed by transfusion of antihemophilic factor and factor VIII inhibitor bypass activity

Dental extraction in hemophiliacs with acquired inhibitors is always a risky procedure, which often presents a lot of problems associated with bleeding. A known case of hemophilia A complicated with factor VIII inhibitors and having odontogenic infection was successfully managed by transfusion of factor VIII inhibitor bypass activity (FEIBA) and antihemophilic factor. Past medical history was significant for multiple factor VIII transfusions. Bethesda assay done to identify inhibitors revealed low titer factor VIII inhibitors. Extraction of the involved tooth was done after transfusion of FEIBA with low-dose protocols. Minimal bleeding was noted after extraction which was controlled by local measures. FEIBA was proven to be highly effective, and no side effects of the product were observed.

The tipping point: The critical role of therapeutic apheresis in a case of refractory acquired hemophilia

Acquired hemophilia A (AHA) is a rare autoimmune disorder that leads to factor VIII (FVIII) deficiency via autoantibody formation. Standard treatment options include FVIII bypassing factors and immunosuppression. However, the role of therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) is not clear in the treatment of AHA. We present a case of idiopathic AHA in a 66 year old female with severe bleeding and a FVIII inhibitor of 17.6 Bethesda units (BU). She failed to respond to standard treatment including maximum dose of recombinant FVIIa (rFVIIa), rituximab, and other immunosuppressive agents. Her FVIII inhibitor rapidly increased to 140 BU and FVIII was below 5%. TPE was initiated 3 weeks after admission and her bleeding stabilized after the first treatment and completely stopped after three treatments. Repeat testing revealed increased FVIII to 15% and FVIII inhibitor decreased to 2.0 BU. After an additional TPE treatment, her FVIII increased to 27% and FVIII inhibitor decreased to 0.6 BU and she was discharged without bleeding 40 days after admission. In this case, TPE played a critical role in reducing FVIII inhibitor, which resulted in a recovery of FVIII activity and hemostasis. Therefore, TPE should be initiated early in AHA patients with bleeding and high titer of FVIII inhibitor.

A close insight to factor VIII inhibitor in the congenital hemophilia A

INTRODUCTION

Hemophilia A (HA) has an X-linked pattern of inheritance and is the most common of the hemorrhagic disorders. HA is caused by a decreased or deficiency of the functional clotting factor VIII (FVIII) and effects 1 in 5000-10,000 male births. The common treatment for hemophilia is replacement therapy by plasma-derived or recombinant FVIII. Approximately 20-30% of people with a severe type of HA develop an inhibitor and this phenomenon is the main challenge in the management of these patients. Genetic factors and environmental determinants contribute to inhibitor development. Here, the roles of various genetic and environmental factors such as the type of FVIII concentrate used, the number of exposure days, and peak treatment time will be discussed in detail. It seems this information is helpful for hematologists.

AREAS COVERED

A literature review was done in January 2016 on PubMed and Scopus using the following keywords:' h(a)emophilia A & factor VIII inhibitor', 'h(a)emophilia A & factor VIII alloantibody', 'h(a)emophilia A & inhibitor'. There was no time limitation; however, there was an English language limitation placed on the articles selected. Expert commentary: Influential genetic and environmental factors in developing inhibitors have been discussed. Most of the risk factors are related to previously untreated patients with hemophili.

Rituximab for eradicating inhibitors in people with acquired haemophilia A

BACKGROUND

Acquired haemophilia A is a rare bleeding disorder caused by the development of specific autoantibodies against coagulation factor VIII. Rituximab may be an alternative approach to the treatment of acquired haemophilia by eradicating FVIII autoantibodies.

OBJECTIVES

To assess and summarise the efficacy and adverse effects of rituximab for treating people with acquired haemophilia A.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched the Cochrane Cystic Fibrosis and Genetic Disorders Group's trials registers, comprising references identified from comprehensive electronic database searches and handsearches of relevant journals and conference proceedings.Date of last search of the Cochrane Cystic Fibrosis and Genetic Disorders Group's trials registers: 01 March 2016.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomised and quasi-randomised controlled trials of rituximab for people with acquired hemophilia A, with no restrictions on gender, age or ethnicity.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

No trials matching the selection criteria were eligible for inclusion.

MAIN RESULTS

No trials matching the selection criteria were eligible for inclusion.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

No randomised clinical trials of rituximab for acquired hemophilia A were found. Thus, based on the highest quality of evidence, we are not able to draw any conclusions or make any recommendations on rituximab for eradicating inhibitors in people with acquired haemophilia A. Given that undertaking randomised controlled trials in this field is a complex task, the authors suggest that, while planning such trials, clinicians treating the disease continue to base their choices on alternative, lower quality sources of evidence. The authors plan, for a future update of this review, to appraise and incorporate any randomised controlled trials, as well as other high-quality non-randomised studies.

Long-term course of anti-factor VIII antibody in patients with hemophilia A at a single center

Background

Immune tolerance induction (ITI) can reduce inhibitors against factor VIII concentrates by 70-80%. In this study, we elucidated the characteristics of inhibitors and attempted to determine the proper indications and timing for ITI.

Methods

Subjects included hemophilia A patients registered at the Korea Hemophilia Foundation from 1991 through 2014. Inhibitors were classified as persistent and transient. Patients were classified into groups according to peak inhibitor titer: low (<2 BU/mL), moderate (2 to <5 BU/mL), high (5 to <10 BU/mL), and very high titer (≥10 BU/mL).

Results

Overall, 350 (21.4%) of 1,634 hemophilia A patients developed inhibitors at least once. Of these, 100 (6.1%) and 250 (15.3%) patients developed persistent and transient inhibitors, respectively. For transient inhibitors, the median peak titer was 1.0 BU/mL, persistent for median of 11.0 months (10.0, 8.0, 13.0, and 19.0 months in the low, moderate, high, and very high titer transient inhibitor groups, respectively). Overall, 95.8% (215), 72.2% (17), 52.4% (21), and 21.7% (97) of patients in the low, moderate, high, and very high titer groups became inhibitor-negative spontaneously, without ITI.

Conclusion

Given the spontaneous disappearance of inhibitors and high cost of ITI, it is worthwhile to postpone ITI for 11 months unless the peak inhibitor titer is greater than 10 BU/mL.

A rare and life-threatening cause of epistaxis

Epistaxis is a potentially life-threatening condition that can compromise a patient's airway, breathing and circulation. Early recognition of underlying bleeding diatheses that are amenable to medical therapy is imperative in order for timely treatment and to reduce morbidity. We present a case in which acquired haemophilia was diagnosed in an 83-year-old man presenting with seemingly uncomplicated epistaxis. The patient suffered multisite haemorrhages and haemodynamic compromise before definitive management with monoclonal antibody therapy. The case highlights the difficulties in managing this rare condition. It also emphasises the importance of clotting assay analysis in patients who present with epistaxis in the absence of an underlying anticoagulant.

Torticollis in a haemophilic infant with inhibitor: a case of spinal epidural haematoma

Central nervous system bleeding, which can be a life-threatening complication, is seen in 2.7% of patients with haemophilia. Spinal epidural haematomas represent about one-tenth of such cases. Here, we report on a 10-month-old boy with severe haemophilia A, who presented with torticollis. Although administration of factor VIII at a dose of 50 U/kg, the patient developed flaccid paralysis of the upper extremities. Factor VIII inhibitor screen was positive. Magnetic resonance imaging of the spine revealed spinal epidural haematomas, extending from C-1 to the cauda equina. Treatment was continued with recombinant activated factor VIIa without surgery. After 1 month, complete neurological recovery was achieved and fully resolved haematomas were detected on spinal MRI. A prompt radiological evaluation of the cervical spine with MRI should be made in patients with haemophilia presenting with torticollis. In addition, in the case of life-threatening bleeding in patients with haemophilia, the possibility of an inhibitor should be kept in mind.