Risks and benefits of splenectomyversusno splenectomy for hereditary spherocytosis - a personal view

Mitapivat reprograms the RBC metabolome and improves anemia in a mouse model of hereditary spherocytosis

Hereditary spherocytosis (HS) is the most common, nonimmune, hereditary, chronic hemolytic anemia after hemoglobinopathies. The genetic defects in membrane function causing HS lead to perturbation of the RBC metabolome, with altered glycolysis. In mice genetically lacking protein 4.2 (4.2-/-; Epb42), a murine model of HS, we showed increased expression of pyruvate kinase (PK) isoforms in whole and fractioned RBCs in conjunction with abnormalities in the glycolytic pathway and in the glutathione (GSH) system. Mitapivat, a PK activator, metabolically reprogrammed 4.2-/- mouse RBCs with amelioration of glycolysis and the GSH cycle. This resulted in improved osmotic fragility, reduced phosphatidylserine positivity, amelioration of RBC cation content, reduction of Na/K/Cl cotransport and Na/H-exchange overactivation, and decrease in erythroid vesicles release in vitro. Mitapivat treatment significantly decreased erythrophagocytosis and beneficially affected iron homeostasis. In mild-to-moderate HS, the beneficial effect of splenectomy is still controversial. Here, we showed that splenectomy improves anemia in 4.2-/- mice and that mitapivat is noninferior to splenectomy. An additional benefit of mitapivat treatment was lower expression of markers of inflammatory vasculopathy in 4.2-/- mice with or without splenectomy, indicating a multisystemic action of mitapivat. These findings support the notion that mitapivat treatment should be considered for symptomatic HS.

The Association Between Parameters of Erythrocytes Morphology and Thrombophilia-Related Mutations

BACKGROUND

Alterations in erythrocyte morphology parameters have been identified and associated with hematological disorders and other chronic and cardiovascular diseases. Erythrocytes are abundant in thrombus content. Their hemoglobin density and differences in the ratio of macrocytic and microcytic cells may be associated with hypercoagulopathy in those with a history of thrombosis.

OBJECTIVE

This cross-sectional study aimed to investigate the relationship between hemogram parameters and thrombophilia genetic parameters.

METHOD

A total of 55 patients whose thrombophilia panel was reviewed due to the diagnosis of thrombosis were included in the study. %MIC, %MAC, %HPO, %HPR and all hemogram parameters were measured using Abbott Alinity HQ. Prothrombin G20210A, MTHFR C677T, MTHFR A1298C, Factor V Leiden G169A and PAI-1 4G/5G mutations were studied using Real Time-PCR.

RESULTS

The MTHFR C677T mutation was detected in 58.2% of the patients. The Factor V Leiden mutation was detected in 5.5% of the patients. The MTHFR A1298C mutation was detected in 58.2%, The PAI mutation was detected in 74.5%, and the Factor 13 mutation was detected in 29% of the patients. Prothrombin G20210A mutation was not detected in any of the patients. Red blood cell (RBC) and Hct values were higher in Factor 13 mutant group; the Hgb and Htc values were higher in the MTHFR C677T mutant group.

CONCLUSION

The MTHFR C677T and Factor 13 mutations may be associated with high Hct and RBC, Hgb, and Htc values, respectively and coagulation tendency in patients with a history of thrombosis.

Treatment of a Child With Submassive Pulmonary Embolism Associated With Hereditary Spherocytosis Using Ultrasound-Assisted Catheter-Directed Thrombolysis

Background: The clinical presentation of hereditary spherocytosis varies from no symptoms to severe hemolytic anemia requiring splenectomy. Splenectomy imposes the risk of hypercoagulability and acute pulmonary embolism. Catheter-directed thrombolysis is an established treatment for submassive pulmonary embolism in adults. However, the literature regarding its use in children is limited. Case Report: We present the case of a 12-year-old male with hereditary spherocytosis who was diagnosed with pulmonary embolism and successfully treated with catheter-directed thrombolysis. The patient was initially treated with 10.5 mg of recombinant tissue plasminogen activator (r-tPA) delivered over 8 hours. However, because of minimal clinical and hemodynamic improvement, a second course of thrombolytic was administered for an additional 24 hours (25 mg of r-tPA), and the treatment resulted in marked clinical and hemodynamic improvement. Clot resolution was confirmed via angiography. The patient was discharged on enoxaparin and with regular follow-up. One year later, the patient was asymptomatic on enoxaparin. Conclusion: This case demonstrates that catheter-based treatment of submassive pulmonary embolism restores hemodynamic stability and thus is an alternative to surgery or systemic thrombolysis, even in the pediatric setting. While catheter-directed thrombolysis is a safe and effective alternative to systemic thrombolysis, further research is needed to establish appropriate dosing and indications in the adolescent population.

Vincristine-induced anemia in hereditary spherocytosis

Vincristine, a vinca alkaloid, is widely used in many hematologic disorders and pediatric cancers, and acts by binding to the tubulin protein, to inhibit effective cell division. Vincristine-induced anemia has been observed, but its mechanism is not well understood. We describe a case involving serious vincristine-induced anemia in a patient with congenital spherocytosis and provide the explanation to the underlying mechanism. This report demonstrates that vincristine administration to patients with a red cell disorder may require additional clinical interventions to compensate for the vincristine-induced anemia.

Impact statement

Therapy with vincristine (VCR), a vinca alkaloid, is widely used in many hematologic disorders and pediatric cancers, and acts by binding to the tubulin protein, to inhibit effective cell division. Our paper indicates that treatment of patients with a red cell disorder may require additional clinical interventions to compensate for the VCR-induced anemia. Careful evaluation of other hematologic disorders is important in using a well-known oncology treatment. Whereas extreme concentrations of VCR were shown to alter red cell viability, data did not show negative effects in patients treated. Our data show that under conditions of increased hematopoiesis, hemoglobin in the circulation drops rapidly requiring transfusion. VCR administration to patients with a red cell disorder may require additional clinical interventions to compensate for the VCR-induced anemia.

The role of splenectomy in lipid metabolism and atherosclerosis (AS)

The extensive performance of splenectomy worldwide for patients suffered from splenic trauma has given rise to high risks of postoperative complications, which has been attracting increasing attention in recent years. Nowadays the spleen is regarded as a versatile organ of the human body, invested with various excellent properties. The spleen has been recognized to take a great part in lipid metabolism. While removal of the spleen intends to alter lipid values, especially with an elevated LDL, splenic autotransplantation is able to normalize these lipid alterations. What is more, conservative surgical procedures like subtotal or partial splenectomy, could as well, afford a correction of dyslipidemia. At the same time, clinically, splenectomy demonstrates a high rate of atherosclerosis (AS), whereas non-surgical treatment after splenic trauma shows unchanged propagation of AS. Based on the intimate relationship between serum lipids and AS, the lipid changes modulated by splenectomy are believed to be responsible for the development of AS. Therefore, a "splenic factor" is most likely present in the regulation of lipidation and AS. Several theories have been postulated to elucidate the possible mechanism involved, among which most are primarily based on its forceful natural immune function, that is to say, the mononuclear phagocytic system.However, the accurate mechanisms behind this mysterious phenomenon still remain unclear so far. Of importance, lipid fractions should be monitored consecutively in case of inevitable splenectomy.

Perspective: interesterified triglycerides, the recent increase in deaths from heart disease, and elevated blood viscosity

The authors hypothesize that consumption of interesterified fats may be the cause of the continuous increase in cardiovascular deaths in the United States which began in 2011. Interesterification is a method of producing solid fats from vegetable oil and began to supplant partial hydrogenation for this purpose upon recognition of the danger of trans fats to cardiovascular health. Long, straight carbon chains, as are present in saturated and trans fatty acids, decrease the fluidity of the erythrocyte cell membrane, which decreases erythrocyte deformability and increases blood viscosity. This decrease in cell membrane fluidity is caused by increased van der Waals interactions, which also solidify dietary fats. Elevated blood viscosity is favored as the pathogenic mechanism by which trans fats increase cardiovascular mortality because changes in lipoprotein levels do not account for all the mortality attributable to their consumption. The rapid changes in cardiovascular mortality noted with the introduction and withdrawal of trans fats from the food supply are reviewed. The evidence implicating elevated blood viscosity in cardiovascular disease is also reviewed. Data regarding the production and consumption of interesterified fats in the US should be released in order to determine if there is an association with the observed increase in cardiovascular deaths.

A long-term follow-up study of subtotal splenectomy in children with hereditary spherocytosis

BACKGROUND

Hereditary spherocytosis (HS) is a heterogeneous hemolytic anemia treated with splenectomy in patients suffering from severe or moderate disease. Total splenectomy, however, renders patients vulnerable to overwhelming postsplenectomy infection despite preventive measures. Although subtotal splenectomy has been advocated as an alternative to total splenectomy, long-term follow-up data are scarce. We investigated how often hematologic recurrences requiring secondary total splenectomy occurred.

PROCEDURE

With a follow-up of at least 5 years, we analyzed the data of 12 patients, aged 11 years maximum (median 6.5 years), who had undergone intended subtotal splenectomy, and 9 patients (median age 11.9 years), who had undergone total splenectomy. We compared their hematologic results and searched for factors associated with secondary spleen surgery.

RESULTS

Hemolysis was reduced after subtotal splenectomy and absent after total splenectomy. Subtotal splenectomy was not successful in three children because no functional splenic remnant remained after 6 months (one conversion at surgery; one necrosis of splenic remnant; one early secondary splenectomy). Four children required secondary splenectomy after a median of 5 years for hematologic recurrence. In the remaining five patients, a functional splenic remnant was present for at least 5.5 years. The median time to secondary total splenectomy after intended subtotal splenectomy was 5.2 years. In all patients requiring secondary total splenectomy, increased reticulocyte levels within 2 years indicated hematologic recurrence.

CONCLUSIONS

Subtotal splenectomy can be an alternative for total splenectomy in young patients with HS. It allows for hematologic improvement and may preserve splenic immune function for as many as 5 years.

Indications and outcome of splenectomy in hematologic disease

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

Gilbert Syndrome with Concomitant Hereditary Spherocytosis Presenting with Moderate Unconjugated Hyperbilirubinemia

We experienced a case of a 19-year-old man with Gilbert syndrome with concomitant hereditary spherocytosis. The patient presented with moderate unconjugated hyperbilirubinemia, and inherited etiology was strongly suspected. The diagnosis of Gilbert syndrome was confirmed by the genetic analysis of the UGT1A1 gene, demonstrating UGT1A1*28 and compound heterozygote UGT1A1*6. In addition, since the laboratory findings and imaging studies revealed lysemia as well as gallstone and splenomegaly, a diagnosis of hereditary spherocytosis was made as a comorbidity. Both Gilbert syndrome and hereditary spherocytosis are hereditary diseases with a high frequency, and the hyperbilirubinemia may be exacerbated when these two diseases are concomitant.

Subtotal Splenectomy in Hereditary Spherocytosis - Advantages and Disadvantages

Hereditary spherocytosis (HS) represents the most frequent hemolytic anemia in Central and Northern Europe consisting in an inherited abnormality of the red blood cell (RBC) membrane. It is usually transmitted as an autosomal dominant disorder; 25% of cases are without family history. Splenectomy is the classical conception and it can cure hemolysis, being the treatment of choice for moderate to severe forms of HS. A new approach is accepted nowadays, subtotal splenectomy, thus eliminating the lifelong risk of postsplenectomy infections. We present two cases of HS treated by subtotal splenectomy, alongside the advantages and disadvantages of this therapy.

Giant right ventricular outflow tract thrombus in hereditary spherocytosis: a case report

Background

In hereditary spherocytosis with severe anemia, splenectomy is a recommended treatment. However, the spleen carries an important role both in immune function and coagulation. The increased risk of bacterial infections associated with splenectomy is well known. Recently, hypercoagulation disorders have also been linked to splenectomy through loss of regulation of platelet activity, loss of filtering function and post-splenectomy thrombocytosis.

Case presentation

A 28 year-old smoking women who had previously undergone splenectomy due to hereditary spherocytosis with a moderate thrombocytosis (platelet count 553–635*10⁹/L), presented with recurrent episodes of pulmonary embolisms. Further examination by multimodality cardiac imaging demonstrated a giant chronic thrombus in the right ventricular outflow tract, which eventually had to be surgically removed.

Conclusions

The present case highlights the increased risk of severe thromboembolic complications following therapeutic splenectomy in hereditary spherocytosis, and emphasis the important role of multimodality cardiac imaging in recurrent pulmonary embolism, diagnosing a giant chronic thrombus in the right ventricular outflow tract.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12959-016-0083-3) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Bacterial Infections Following Splenectomy for Malignant and Nonmalignant Hematologic Diseases

Splenectomy, while often necessary in otherwise healthy patients after major trauma, finds its primary indication for patients with underlying malignant or nonmalignant hematologic diseases. Indications of splenectomy for hematologic diseases have been reducing in the last few years, due to improved diagnostic and therapeutic tools. In high-income countries, there is a clear decrease over calendar time in the incidence of all indication splenectomy except nonmalignant hematologic diseases. However, splenectomy, even if with different modalities including laparoscopic splenectomy and partial splenectomy, continue to be a current surgical practice both in nonmalignant hematologic diseases, such as Immune Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP), Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia (AIHA), Congenital Hemolytic Anemia such as Spherocytosis, Sickle Cell Anemia and Thalassemia and Malignant Hematological Disease, such as lymphoma. Today millions of people in the world are splenectomized. Splenectomy, independently of its cause, induces an early and late increase in the incidence of venous thromboembolism and infections. Infections remain the most dangerous complication of splenectomy. After splenectomy, the levels of antibody are preserved but there is a loss of memory B cells against pneumococcus and tetanus, and the loss of marginal zone monocytes deputed to immunological defense from capsulated bacteria. Commonly, the infections strictly correlated to the absence of the spleen or a decreased or absent splenic function are due to encapsulated bacteria that are the most virulent pathogens in this set of patients. Vaccination with polysaccharide and conjugate vaccines again Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, and Neisseria meningitidis should be performed before the splenectomy. This practice reduces but does not eliminate the occurrence of overwhelming infections due to capsulated bacteria. At present, most of infections found in splenectomized patients are due to Gram-negative (G-) bacteria. The underlying disease is the most important factor in determining the frequency and severity of infections. So, splenectomy for malignant diseases has the major risk of infections.

Long-term risk of acute coronary syndrome in splenectomized patients due to splenic injury

We aimed to assess the magnitude and duration of risk of acute coronary syndrome (ACS) associated with splenectomy for splenic injury.We identified 5139 splenectomized patients (the splenectomy cohort) to compare with 2 other cohorts for assessing the magnitude and risk of ACS: the first cohort comprising subjects without splenic injury and without splenectomy (control cohort), and the second cohort comprising nonsplenectomized patients with splenic injury (nonsplenectomy cohort; n = 6391). For each splenic injury patient (n = 11530), 4 control comparisons were frequency-matched by the year of index date, age, and sex (n = 46120).The adjusted risk of ACS was significantly higher in the splenectomy group than in the control group (2.08 vs 1.68 per 1000 person-years; adjusted hazard ratio [HR], 1.30; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.01-1.68). The sex-specific data showed that the adjusted HR for the splenectomy group, compared with the control group, was 1.29 in men (95% CI, 0.97-1.73) and 1.36 in women (95% CI, 0.79-2.33). The age-specific analyses failed to demonstrate a significantly higher adjusted HR of ACS in the splenectomized patients in any age subgroup, compared with their counterparts in the control group. Furthermore, no difference in the risk of ACS was detected between the splenectomy and nonsplenectomy cohorts within the splenic injury patients.In comparison with the control cohort, patients undergoing splenectomy for splenic injury exhibited an elevated risk of ACS.

Factors Influencing RBC Alloimmunization: Lessons Learned from Murine Models

Red blood cell (RBC) alloimmunization may occur following transfusion or pregnancy/delivery. Although observational human studies have described the immunogenicity of RBC antigens and the clinical significance of RBC alloantibodies, studies of factors influencing RBC alloimmunization in humans are inherently limited by the large number of independent variables involved. This manuscript reviews data generated in murine models that utilize transgenic donor mice, which express RBC-specific model or authentic human blood group antigens. Transfusion of RBCs from such donors into nontransgenic but otherwise genetically identical recipient mice allows for the investigation of individual donor or recipient-specific variables that may impact RBC alloimmunization. Potential donor-related variables include methods of blood product collection, processing and storage, donor-specific characteristics, RBC antigen-specific factors, and others. Potential recipient-related variables include genetic factors (MHC/HLA type and polymorphisms of immunoregulatory genes), immune activation status, phenotype of regulatory immune cell subsets, immune cell functional characteristics, prior antigen exposures, and others. Although murine models are not perfect surrogates for human biology, these models generate phenomenological and mechanistic hypotheses of RBC alloimmunization and lay the groundwork for follow-up human studies. Long-term goals include improving transfusion safety and minimizing the morbidity/mortality associated with RBC alloimmunization.

Quality of life and behavioral functioning in Dutch pediatric patients with hereditary spherocytosis

The objective of this study was to evaluate health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and behavioral functioning in pediatric patients with hereditary spherocytosis (HS). A cross-sectional study was conducted in 132 Dutch children and adolescents with HS and aged 8-18 years of whom 48 underwent splenectomy prior to the study. HRQoL was assessed using the KIDSCREEN-27, and behavioral functioning was evaluated using the strength and difficulties questionnaire (SDQ). Scores of pediatric patients with HS were compared to a Dutch norm population. Additionally, the effects of three factors were assessed: fatigue, self-image, and parents' perceived vulnerability (measured with the checklist individual strength, the self-perception profile for children and adolescents, and the child vulnerability scale). Both unsplenectomised and splenectomised pediatric patients reported lower HRQoL on the domain physical well-being (KIDSCREEN-27) compared to Dutch peers. For behavioral functioning, parents of both groups reported more emotional problems (SDQ) compared to the norm population. Pediatric patients with lower scores on physical well-being experienced more fatigue. The patients' perceived social acceptance and parents' perceived vulnerability appeared as determinants of emotional problems.

CONCLUSION

Pediatric patients in the current study generally report few complaints, and the results suggest that these patients overall have a strong ability to cope with HS. Despite these few complaints, fatigue and parents' perceived vulnerability seem to be important determinants for lower HRQoL and more emotional problems. Therefore, screening on these factors could serve as an addition to the treatment of HS, to help pediatric patients who are at risk for lower HRQoL or more emotional problems.

Risk factors for thromboembolism and pulmonary artery hypertension following splenectomy in children with hereditary spherocytosis

BACKGROUND

The aim was to study risk-factors for vascular thrombosis and incidence of pulmonary artery hypertension (PAH) in splenectomized children with hereditary spherocytosis (HS) at a single center.

PROCEDURE

Pre- and post-splenectomy hemoglobin and platelet counts were recorded. Post-splenectomy lipid-profile, fibrinogen, D-dimer, CRP and anti-coagulant-protein levels were compared to established controls. Echo-Doppler was performed for PAH.

RESULTS

Twenty-six children with HS had undergone splenectomy; the mean age at surgery was 7.9 ± 3.7 years. Nineteen of the 26 were prospectively investigated at a median duration of 4.5 years (range: 4 months to 19 years) following splenectomy. Thrombocytosis was observed in 19 (73%), whereas no patient had erythrocytosis at the last follow-up visit. Total cholesterol, LDL-C, HDL-C, and triglyceride levels were not deranged (P ≥ 0.3). Mean CRP levels (males: 2.8 ± 0.5; females: 2.1 ± 0.5 mg/L) were significantly higher than described for normal children (P < 0.001). Six (23%) patients had a positive D-dimer assay. Protein S, anti-thrombin-III and fibrinogen were in range. A single patient had a borderline low protein C activity. Lupus anticoagulant and anti-cardiolipin antibody assays were negative. The mean tricuspid regurgitant jet velocity (TRJV) was 1.8 ± 0.55 meter per second (range: 0-2.4). None had a TRJV ≥2.5 meter per second to suggest PAH.

CONCLUSIONS

There was no evidence of PAH, dyslipidemia, elevation of fibrinogen or a reduction in anti-coagulant proteins, at a median follow-up duration of 4.5 years following splenectomy in children with HS. However, elevated CRP level (42%), persistent thrombocytosis (73%) and elevated D-dimer levels (23%) were observed. These have been recognized as risk factors for cerebrovascular and coronary heart disease.

Abnormalities of the erythrocyte membrane

Primary abnormalities of the erythrocyte membrane are characterized by clinical, laboratory, and genetic heterogeneity. Among this group, hereditary spherocytosis patients are more likely to experience symptomatic anemia. Treatment of hereditary spherocytosis with splenectomy is curative in most patients. Growing recognition of the long-term risks of splenectomy has led to re-evaluation of the role of splenectomy. Management guidelines acknowledge these considerations and recommend discussion between health care providers, patient, and family. The hereditary elliptocytosis syndromes are the most common primary disorders of erythrocyte membrane proteins. However, most elliptocytosis patients are asymptomatic and do not require therapy.

Splenectomy in children with "mild" hereditary spherocytosis

Splenectomy is considered the treatment of choice for patients with "symptomatic" hereditary spherocytosis (HS). Published guidelines offering recommendations for splenectomy in HS categorize patients primarily based on hemoglobin concentration. We performed a retrospective review of 64 children having splenectomy for HS at Children's Medical Center Dallas. On the basis of hemoglobin concentration alone, 16 children (25%) had mild, 38 (59%) moderate, and 10 (16%) severe HS. However, when reticulocyte count was used to categorize disease severity, only 3 patients (5%) having splenectomy would be considered mild, 17 (27%) moderate, and 42 (66%) severe. Despite otherwise having "mild" disease defined by near-normal hemoglobin levels, many children with nontraditional or subjective signs and symptoms related to hemolytic rate received a splenectomy, and, therefore, reticulocyte count might be a more reliable laboratory marker suggesting consideration of splenectomy. A validated assessment tool incorporating quality of life indicators in addition to the traditional medical indications for splenectomy in HS would be valuable in assessing indications for the procedure.

Short- and long-term risks of splenectomy for benign haematological disorders: should we revisit the indications?

Splenectomy has represented a key treatment option in the treatment of many benign haematological diseases, including immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) and disorders associated with ongoing haemolysis (thalassaemia major and intermedia, sickle cell disease, and hereditary or acquired haemolytic anaemias). Improvements in surgical techniques have reduced perioperative complications and mortality. Preventive measures (new protein conjugate vaccines, antibiotic prophylaxis, and increased vigilance) are thought to greatly reduce the risk of overwhelming post-splenectomy infection (OPSI), although their implementation is inconsistent. Nevertheless, there is increasing documentation of the short- and long-term risks of splenectomy, which vary according to the underlying indication. Splenectomized patients are at increased risk of venous thromboembolism, particularly within the splenoportal system. The long-term thromboembolic risk is higher in haematological disorders associated with ongoing haemolysis, particularly in thalassaemia intermedia, which has led to a more conservative approach. In comparison, patients with ITP appear to be at lower risk of adverse effects of splenectomy, which maintains its place as the potentially most curative and safe second-line treatment. However, a splenectomy-sparing approach is also emerging for ITP, and recent guidelines recommend that this procedure is deferred until ≥ 12 months from ITP diagnosis, to allow sufficient time for possible remission.

Guidelines for the diagnosis and management of hereditary spherocytosis--2011 update

Guidelines on hereditary spherocytosis (HS) published in 2004 (Bolton-Maggs et al, 2004) are here replaced to reflect changes in current opinion on the surgical management, (particularly the indications for concomitant splenectomy with cholecystectomy in children with mild HS, and concomitant cholecystectomy with splenectomy in those with asymptomatic gallstones). Further potential long term hazards of splenectomy are now recognised. Advances have been made in our understanding of the biochemistry of the red cell membrane which underpins the choice of tests. Biochemical assays of membranes proteins and genetic analysis may be indicated (rarely) to diagnose atypical cases. The diagnostic value of the eosin-5-maleimide (EMA) binding test has been validated in a number of studies with understanding of its limitations.

Steroid therapy may be effective in augmenting hemoglobin levels during hemolytic crises in children with hereditary spherocytosis

BACKGROUND

The course of hereditary spherocytosis (HS) may be subject to hemolytic episodes, sometimes requiring blood transfusion. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of a short course of steroid therapy in elevating hemoglobin levels during hemolytic crisis.

PROCEDURE

The files of all patients followed for HS from 1968 to 2009 at our hospital were reviewed. Outcome of hemolytic crises was compared between steroid-treated and untreated patients; patients given packed red blood cell transfusion(s) or erythropoietin treatment were excluded. A good outcome was defined as an increase of at least 20% in hemoglobin level from the nadir within 1 week.

RESULTS

Of the 118 patients with HS who attended our hospital during the study period, 20 were treated with steroids and 9 received no treatment. Mean nadir hemoglobin level in both groups was 6.9 g/dl. The study group had a total of 50 steroid-treated hemolytic crises of which 37 (74%) responded favorably to treatment. Treatment failure was significantly associated with a low dose (<1 mg/kg/day) or short duration (<1 week) of treatment. The nine untreated patients had 16 hemolytic crises, of which 25% had a good outcome. Steroid therapy was significantly more effective than no therapy in increasing hemoglobin level (P = 0.015) in these hemolytic crises.

CONCLUSION

Steroid therapy may be effective in augmenting hemoglobin levels during hemolytic crises in patients with moderate HS and eventually will result in a reduced need for RBC transfusion.

Partial splenic embolization facilitates the adherence to peginterferon in chronic hepatitis C with thrombocytopenia

OBJECTIVE

Platelet counts before starting the treatment affect the discontinuation and dose reduction of peginterferon in chronic hepatitis C. Thrombocytopenia leads to failure to achieve sustained virological response. This study was undertaken to evaluate the efficacy of partial splenic embolization (PSE) prior to starting peginterferon therapy combined with ribavirin in chronic hepatitis C patients showing thrombocytopenia.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We compared the clinical features of 11 patients receiving PSE (PSE group) prior to starting the combined therapy with those of 13 patients not receiving PSE (non-PSE group). All of the patients showed platelet counts ≤12×10(4)/mm(3) and serum hepatitis C virus-RNA levels ≥100 KIU/mL at baseline. The end-point of PSE was a volume of splenic infarction over 75%. Peginterferon alpha-2b at a dose of 1.2 µg/kg was administered by subcutaneous injection once a week. The dose of ribavirin was weight adjusted.

RESULTS

PSE was successfully performed without serious adverse events. The period from PSE to starting the combined therapy was 14 (6-27) days. After PSE, platelet counts were significantly increased. In PSE group, platelet counts during the combined therapy were maintained above those at baseline. In non-PSE group, platelet counts at the 2nd week after the start of the combined therapy significantly decreased to less than those at baseline. Overall, 80% adherence to expected peginterferon dose was not achieved in 5 patients (45%) of PSE group and in 11 (85%) of non-PSE group (p=0.043).

CONCLUSION

Increased platelet counts after PSE facilitates the adherence to peginterferon therapy in chronic hepatitis C patients with thrombocytopenia.