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Barcellini W, Fattizzo B. Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemias: Challenges in Diagnosis and Therapy. Transfus Med Hemother 2024; 51:321-331. [PMID: 39371250 PMCID: PMC11452171 DOI: 10.1159/000540475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2024] [Accepted: 07/19/2024] [Indexed: 10/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA) is a rare disease due to increased destruction of erythrocytes by autoantibodies, with or without complement activation. Summary AIHA is usually classified in warm AIHA (wAIHA) and cold agglutinin disease (CAD), based on isotype and thermal amplitude of the autoantibody. The direct antiglobulin test (DAT) or Coombs test is the cornerstone of AIHA diagnosis, as it is positive with anti-IgG in wAIHA, and with anti-C3d/IgM antisera plus high titer cold agglutinins in CAD. Therapy is quite different, as steroids and rituximab are effective in the former, but have a lower response rate and duration in the latter. Splenectomy, which is still a good option for young/fit wAIHA, is contraindicated in CAD, and classic immunosuppressants are moving to further lines. Several new drugs are increasingly used or are in trials for relapsed/refractory AIHAs, including B-cell (parsaclisib, ibrutinib, rilzabrutinib), and plasma cell target therapies (bortezomib, daratumumab), bispecific agents (ianalumab, obexelimab, povetacicept), neonatal Fc receptor blockers (nipocalimab), and complement inhibitors (sutimlimab, riliprubart, pegcetacoplan, iptacopan). Clinically, AIHAs are highly heterogeneous, from mild/compensated to life-threatening/fulminant, and may be primary or associated with infections, neoplasms, autoimmune diseases, transplants, immunodeficiencies, and drugs. Along with all these variables, there are rare forms like mixed (wAIHA plus CAD), atypical (IgA or warm IgM driven), and DAT negative, where the diagnosis and clinical management are particularly challenging. Key Messages This article covers the classic clinical features, diagnosis, and therapy of wAIHA and CAD, and focuses, with the support of clinical vignettes, on difficult diagnosis and refractory/relapsing cases requiring novel therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wilma Barcellini
- Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Bruno Fattizzo
- Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
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Berentsen S. Cold-antibody Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia: its Association with Neoplastic Disease and Impact on Therapy. Curr Oncol Rep 2024; 26:1085-1096. [PMID: 38874820 DOI: 10.1007/s11912-024-01569-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/05/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Cold-antibody mediated autoimmune hemolytic anemia (cAIHA) is subclassified as cold agglutinin disease (CAD), secondary cold agglutinin syndrome (CAS), and paroxysmal cold hemoglobinuria (PCH). This review aims to address the occurrence of neoplastic disorders with these three entities and analyze the impact of such neoplasias on treatment for cAIHA. RECENT FINDINGS "Primary" CAD is a distinct clonal B-cell lymphoproliferative disorder in probably all cases, although not classified as a malignant lymphoma. CAS is secondary to malignant lymphoma in a minority of cases. Recent findings allow a further clarification of these differential diagnoses and the therapeutic consequences of specific neoplastic entities. Appropriate diagnostic workup is critical for therapy in cAIHA. Patients with CAD should be treated if they have symptomatic anemia, significant fatigue, or bothersome circulatory symptoms. The distinction between CAD and CAS and the presence of any underlying malignancy in CAS have essential therapeutic implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sigbjørn Berentsen
- Department of Research and Innovation, Haugesund Hospital, Helse Fonna Hospital Trust, Haugesund, Norway.
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Berentsen S, Vos JMI, Malecka A, Tjønnfjord GE, D'Sa S. The impact of individual clinical features in cold agglutinin disease: hemolytic versus non-hemolytic symptoms. Expert Rev Hematol 2024; 17:479-492. [PMID: 38938203 DOI: 10.1080/17474086.2024.2372333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2024] [Accepted: 06/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/29/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION During the last decades, the pathogenesis of cold agglutinin disease (CAD) has been well elucidated and shown to be complex. Several documented or investigational therapies have been made available. This development has resulted in major therapeutic advances, but also in challenges in choice of therapy. AREAS COVERED In this review, we address each step in pathogenesis: bone marrow clonal lymphoproliferation, composition and effects of monoclonal cold agglutinin, non-complement mediated erythrocyte agglutination, complement-dependent hemolysis, and other effects of complement activation. We also discuss the heterogeneous clinical features and their relation to specific steps in pathogenesis, in particular with respect to the impact of complement involvement. CAD can be classified into three clinical phenotypes with consequences for established treatments as well as development of new therapies. Some promising future treatment approaches - beyond chemoimmunotherapy and complement inhibition - are reviewed. EXPERT OPINION The patient's individual clinical profile regarding complement involvement and hemolytic versus non-hemolytic features is important for the choice of treatment. Further development of treatment approaches is encouraged, and some candidate drugs are promising irrespective of clinical phenotype. Patients with CAD requiring therapy should be considered for inclusion in clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sigbjørn Berentsen
- Department of Research and Innovation, Haugesund Hospital, Helse Fonna Hospital Trust, Haugesund, Norway
| | | | - Agnieszka Malecka
- Department of Haematology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Pathology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Geir E Tjønnfjord
- Department of Haematology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Shirley D'Sa
- UCLH Centre for Waldenstrom macroglobulinaemia and Related Conditions, University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
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4
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Ito S, Wang D, Purcell A, Chetlapalli K, Lee AI, Cuker A, Goshua G. Cost-effectiveness of sutimlimab in cold agglutinin disease. Am J Hematol 2024; 99:1475-1484. [PMID: 38733355 DOI: 10.1002/ajh.27358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2024] [Revised: 04/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024]
Abstract
Primary cold agglutinin disease (CAD) is a rare autoimmune hemolytic anemia caused by cold-reactive antibodies that bind to red blood cells and lead to complement-mediated hemolysis. Patients with primary CAD experience the burden of increased health resource utilization and reduced quality of life. The standard-of-care (SOC) in patients with primary CAD has included cold avoidance, transfusion support, and chemoimmunotherapy. The use of sutimlimab, a humanized monoclonal antibody that selectively inhibits C1-mediated hemolysis, was shown to reduce transfusion-dependence and improve quality of life across two pivotal phase 3 studies, further supported by 2-year extension data. Using data from the transfusion-dependent patient population that led to sutimlimab's initial FDA approval, we performed the first-ever cost-effectiveness analysis in primary CAD. The projected incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) in our Markov model was $2 340 000/QALY, significantly above an upper-end conventional US willingness-to-pay threshold of $150 000/QALY. These results are consistent across scenarios of higher body weight and a pan-refractory SOC patient phenotype (i.e., treated sequentially with bendamustine-rituximab, bortezomib, ibrutinib, and eculizumab). No parameter variations in deterministic sensitivity analyses changed our conclusion. In probabilistic sensitivity analysis, SOC was favored over sutimlimab in 100% of 10 000 iterations. Exploratory threshold analyses showed that significant price reduction (>80%) or time-limited treatment (<18 months) followed by lifelong clinical remission off sutimlimab would allow sutimlimab to become cost-effective. The impact of sutimlimab on health system costs with longer term follow-up data merits future study and consideration through a distributional cost-effectiveness framework.
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MESH Headings
- Humans
- Anemia, Hemolytic, Autoimmune/therapy
- Anemia, Hemolytic, Autoimmune/drug therapy
- Anemia, Hemolytic, Autoimmune/economics
- Cost-Benefit Analysis
- Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized/therapeutic use
- Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized/economics
- Female
- Male
- Middle Aged
- Markov Chains
- Quality-Adjusted Life Years
- Aged
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Affiliation(s)
- Satoko Ito
- Section of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Daniel Wang
- Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | | | | | - Alfred I Lee
- Section of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Adam Cuker
- Department of Medicine and Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - George Goshua
- Section of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
- Center for Outcomes Research and Evaluation, Yale New Haven Hospital, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
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Barcellini W, Fattizzo B. The evolving management algorithm for the patient with newly diagnosed cold agglutinin disease. Expert Rev Hematol 2024; 17:287-294. [PMID: 38872338 DOI: 10.1080/17474086.2024.2366540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 06/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Cold agglutinin disease (CAD) is driven by IgM autoantibodies reactive at <37°C and able to fix complement. The activation of the classical complement pathway leads to C3-mediated extravascular hemolysis in the liver and to intravascular hemolytic crises in case of complement amplifying conditions. C3 positivity at direct Coombs test along with high titer agglutins are required for the diagnosis. Treatment is less standardized. AREAS COVERED This review recapitulates CAD diagnosis and then focus on the evolving management of the disease. Both current approach and novel targeted drugs are discussed. Literature search was conducted in PubMed and Scopus from 2000 to 2024 using 'CAD' and 'autoimmune hemolytic anemia' as keywords. EXPERT OPINION Rituximab represents the frontline approach in patients with symptomatic anemia or disabling cold-induced peripheral symptoms and is effective in 50-60% of cases. Refractory/relapsing patients are an unmet need and may now benefit from complement inhibitors, particularly the anti-C1s sutimlimab, effective in controlling hemolysis thus improving anemia in >80% of patients, but not active on cold-induced peripheral symptoms. Novel drugs include long-acting complement inhibitors, plasma cells, and B-cell targeting agents (proteasome inhibitors, anti-CD38, BTKi, PI3Ki, anti-BAFF). Combination therapy may be the future answer to CAD unmet needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wilma Barcellini
- SC Ematologia, SS Fisiopatologia delle Anemie, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Bruno Fattizzo
- SC Ematologia, SS Fisiopatologia delle Anemie, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
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Jalink M, Jacobs CF, Khwaja J, Evers D, Bruggeman C, Fattizzo B, Michel M, Crickx E, Hill QA, Jaeger U, Kater AP, Mäkelburg ABU, Breedijk A, te Boekhorst PAW, Hoeks MPA, de Haas M, D’Sa S, Vos JMI. Daratumumab monotherapy in refractory warm autoimmune hemolytic anemia and cold agglutinin disease. Blood Adv 2024; 8:2622-2634. [PMID: 38507742 PMCID: PMC11157213 DOI: 10.1182/bloodadvances.2024012585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2024] [Revised: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024] Open
Abstract
ABSTRACT Autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA) is a rare autoantibody-mediated disease. For steroid and/or rituximab-refractory AIHA, there is no consensus on optimal treatment. Daratumumab, a monoclonal antibody targeting CD38, could be beneficial by suppression of CD38+ plasma cells and thus autoantibody secretion. In addition, because CD38 is also expressed by activated T cells, daratumumab may also act via immunomodulatory effects. We evaluated the efficacy and safety of daratumumab monotherapy in an international retrospective study including 19 adult patients with heavily pretreated refractory AIHA. In warm AIHA (wAIHA, n = 12), overall response was 50% with a median response duration of 5.5 months (range, 2-12), including ongoing response in 2 patients after 6 and 12 months. Of 6 nonresponders, 4 had Evans syndrome. In cold AIHA (cAIHA, n = 7) overall hemoglobin (Hb) response was 57%, with ongoing response in 3 of 7 patients. One additional patient with nonanemic cAIHA was treated for severe acrocyanosis and reached a clinical acrocyanosis response as well as a Hb increase. Of 6 patients with cAIHA with acrocyanosis, 4 had improved symptoms after daratumumab treatment. In 2 patients with wAIHA treated with daratumumab, in whom we prospectively collected blood samples, we found complete CD38+ T-cell depletion after daratumumab, as well as altered T-cell subset differentiation and a severely diminished capacity for cell activation and proliferation. Reappearance of CD38+ T cells coincided with disease relapse in 1 patient. In conclusion, our data show that daratumumab therapy may be a treatment option for refractory AIHA. The observed immunomodulatory effects that may contribute to the clinical response deserve further exploration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marit Jalink
- Center for Clinical Transfusion Research, Sanquin Research, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Hematology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Chaja F. Jacobs
- Experimental Immunology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Hematology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Cancer Immunology, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Cancer Immunology, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jahanzaib Khwaja
- University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Dorothea Evers
- Department of Hematology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Coty Bruggeman
- Department of Hematology, Martini Ziekenhuis, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Bruno Fattizzo
- Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Marc Michel
- Centre de Référence des Cytopénies Auto-Immunes de l'Adulte, Service de Médecine Interne, CHU Henri Mondor, AP-HP, Université Paris-Est Créteil, Créteil, France
| | - Etienne Crickx
- Centre de Référence des Cytopénies Auto-Immunes de l'Adulte, Service de Médecine Interne, CHU Henri Mondor, AP-HP, Université Paris-Est Créteil, Créteil, France
| | - Quentin A. Hill
- Department of Haematology, Leeds Teaching Hospitals, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Ulrich Jaeger
- Division of Hematology and Hemostaseology, Department of Medicine I, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Arnon P. Kater
- Experimental Immunology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Hematology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Cancer Immunology, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Cancer Immunology, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Anja B. U. Mäkelburg
- Department of Hematology, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Anouk Breedijk
- Department of Internal Medicine, Deventer Ziekenhuis, Deventer, The Netherlands
| | - Peter A. W. te Boekhorst
- Department of Hematology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Marlijn P. A. Hoeks
- Department of Hematology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Masja de Haas
- Department of Hematology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Department of Immunohematology Diagnostics, Sanquin, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Shirley D’Sa
- University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Josephine M. I. Vos
- Department of Hematology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Cancer Immunology, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Immunohematology Diagnostics, Sanquin, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Datta SS, Berentsen S. Management of autoimmune haemolytic anaemia in low-to-middle income countries: current challenges and the way forward. THE LANCET REGIONAL HEALTH. SOUTHEAST ASIA 2024; 23:100343. [PMID: 38601175 PMCID: PMC11004394 DOI: 10.1016/j.lansea.2023.100343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2023] [Revised: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 04/12/2024]
Abstract
Autoimmune haemolytic anaemia (AIHA) is a common term for several disorders that differ from one another in terms of aetiology, pathogenesis, clinical features, and treatment. Therapy is becoming increasingly differentiated and evidence-based, and several new established and investigational therapeutic approaches have appeared during recent years. While this development has resulted in therapeutic improvements, it also carries increased medical and financial requirements for optimal diagnosis, subgrouping, and individualization of therapy, including the use of more advanced laboratory tests and expensive drugs. In this brief Viewpoint review, we first summarize the diagnostic workup of AIHA subgroups and the respective therapies that are currently considered optimal. We then compare these principles with real-world data from India, the world's largest nation by population and a typical low-to-middle income country. We identify major deficiencies and limitations in general and laboratory resources, real-life diagnostic procedures, and therapeutic practices. Incomplete diagnostic workup, overuse of corticosteroids, lack of access to more specific treatments, and poor follow-up of patients are the rule more than exceptions. Although it may not seem realistic to resolve all challenges, we try to outline some ways towards an improved management of patients with AIHA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suvro Sankha Datta
- Tata Medical Centre, Department of Transfusion Medicine, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - Sigbjørn Berentsen
- Department of Research and Innovation, Haugesund Hospital, Helse Fonna Hospital Trust, Haugesund, Norway
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8
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Kitamura W, Kobayashi H, Iseki A, Wada H, Maeda Y, Kuyama S. Cold agglutinin-induced acrocyanosis without hemolytic anemia. Ann Hematol 2024; 103:681-683. [PMID: 37940715 DOI: 10.1007/s00277-023-05538-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 11/02/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Wataru Kitamura
- Department of Hematology, National Hospital Organization Iwakuni Clinical Center, 1-1-1, Atago-Cho, Iwakuni, 740-8510, Japan.
- Department of Hematology, Oncology and Respiratory Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University, 2-5-1, Shikata-Cho, Kita-Ku, Okayama, 700-8558, Japan.
| | - Hiroki Kobayashi
- Department of Hematology, Oncology and Respiratory Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University, 2-5-1, Shikata-Cho, Kita-Ku, Okayama, 700-8558, Japan
| | - Akiko Iseki
- Department of Pathology, National Hospital Organization Iwakuni Clinical Center, 1-1-1, Atago-Cho, Iwakuni, 740-8510, Japan
| | - Hideho Wada
- Department of Hematology, Kawasaki Medical School, 577 Matsushima, Kurashiki, 701-0192, Japan
| | - Yoshinobu Maeda
- Department of Hematology, Oncology and Respiratory Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University, 2-5-1, Shikata-Cho, Kita-Ku, Okayama, 700-8558, Japan
| | - Shoichi Kuyama
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, National Hospital Organization Iwakuni Clinical Center, 1-1-1, Atago-Cho, Iwakuni, 740-8510, Japan
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Fukatsu M, Hamazaki Y, Sato Y, Koyama D, Ikezoe T. A case of cold agglutinin syndrome associated with chronic lymphocytic leukaemia harbouring mutations in CARD11 and KMT2D. Int J Hematol 2023; 118:472-476. [PMID: 37133636 DOI: 10.1007/s12185-023-03608-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2022] [Revised: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Cold agglutinin disease (CAD) is a rare cold autoimmune haemolytic anaemia (cAIHA) caused by IgM antibodies recognizing I antigens on erythrocytes. cAIHA is now mainly classified into two types: primary CAD and cold agglutinin syndrome (CAS). CAS develops in association with the underlying disease, which is most commonly malignant lymphoma. Recent studies have identified gene mutations in CARD11 and KMT2D in a high proportion of patients with CAD, which has led to recognition of CAD as an indolent lymphoproliferative disorder. We herein report a case of cAIHA without lymphocytosis or lymphadenopathy in whom bone marrow was infiltrated by a small population of clonal lymphocytes (6.8%) expressing cell surface markers consistent with chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL). Whole-exome sequencing of bone marrow mononuclear cells revealed mutations in the CARD11 and KMT2D genes. This patient also had somatic hypermutation with overrepresentation of IGHV4-34, which is prevalent in CLL harbouring the KMT2D mutation. These observations suggest that CAS caused by early-phase CLL could be misinterpreted as primary CAD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masahiko Fukatsu
- Department of Hematology, Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima City, Fukushima, 960-1295, Japan
| | - Yoichi Hamazaki
- Department of Hematology, Iwaki City Medical Center, Iwaki, 973-8555, Japan
| | - Yuki Sato
- Department of Hematology, Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima City, Fukushima, 960-1295, Japan
| | - Daisuke Koyama
- Department of Hematology, Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima City, Fukushima, 960-1295, Japan
| | - Takayuki Ikezoe
- Department of Hematology, Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima City, Fukushima, 960-1295, Japan.
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10
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Mulder FVM, Evers D, de Haas M, Cruijsen MJ, Bernelot Moens SJ, Barcellini W, Fattizzo B, Vos JMI. Severe autoimmune hemolytic anemia; epidemiology, clinical management, outcomes and knowledge gaps. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1228142. [PMID: 37795092 PMCID: PMC10545865 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1228142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA) is an acquired hemolytic disorder, mediated by auto-antibodies, and has a variable clinical course ranging from fully compensated low grade hemolysis to severe life-threatening cases. The rarity, heterogeneity and incomplete understanding of severe AIHA complicate the recognition and management of severe cases. In this review, we describe how severe AIHA can be defined and what is currently known of the severity and outcome of AIHA. There are no validated predictors for severe clinical course, but certain risk factors for poor outcomes (hospitalisation, transfusion need and mortality) can aid in recognizing severe cases. Some serological subtypes of AIHA (warm AIHA with complement positive DAT, mixed, atypical) are associated with lower hemoglobin levels, higher transfusion need and mortality. Currently, there is no evidence-based therapeutic approach for severe AIHA. We provide a general approach for the management of severe AIHA patients, incorporating monitoring, supportive measures and therapeutic options based on expert opinion. In cases where steroids fail, there is a lack of rapidly effective therapeutic options. In this era, numerous novel therapies are emerging for AIHA, including novel complement inhibitors, such as sutimlimab. Their potential in severe AIHA is discussed. Future research efforts are needed to gain a clearer picture of severe AIHA and develop prediction models for severe disease course. It is crucial to incorporate not only clinical characteristics but also biomarkers that are associated with pathophysiological differences and severity, to enhance the accuracy of prediction models and facilitate the selection of the optimal therapeutic approach. Future clinical trials should prioritize the inclusion of severe AIHA patients, particularly in the quest for rapidly acting novel agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Femke V. M. Mulder
- Sanquin Research and Landsteiner Laboratory, Translational Immunohematology, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Department of Hematology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Dorothea Evers
- Department of Hematology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Masja de Haas
- Sanquin Research and Landsteiner Laboratory, Translational Immunohematology, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Department of Hematology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
- Department of Immunohematology Diagnostics, Sanquin Diagnostic Services, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | | | - Sophie J. Bernelot Moens
- Department of Hematology and Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Wilma Barcellini
- Department of Hematology, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Bruno Fattizzo
- Department of Hematology, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Josephine M. I. Vos
- Department of Immunohematology Diagnostics, Sanquin Diagnostic Services, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Department of Hematology and Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
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11
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Nikitin E, Kislova M, Morozov D, Belyakova V, Suvorova A, Sveshnikova J, Vyscub G, Matveeva I, Shirokova M, Shipaeva A, Klitochenko T, Makarovskaya P, Dmitrieva E, Biderman B, Sudarikov A, Obukhova T, Samoilova O, Kaplanov K, Konstantinova T, Mayorova O, Poddubnaya I, Ptushkin V. Ibrutinib in combination with rituximab is highly effective in treatment of chronic lymphocytic leukemia patients with steroid refractory and relapsed autoimmune cytopenias. Leukemia 2023; 37:1464-1473. [PMID: 37202442 PMCID: PMC10195665 DOI: 10.1038/s41375-023-01891-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2022] [Revised: 03/08/2023] [Accepted: 03/30/2023] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA) and pure red cell aplasia (PRCA) are common complications of CLL. The optimal treatment of steroid refractory AIHA/PRCA is not well established. We conducted a multicenter study of ibrutinib and rituximab in patients with relapsed/refractory to steroids AIHA/PRCA and underlying CLL. Protocol included induction (ibrutinib 420 mg/day and rituximab, 8 weekly and 4 monthly infusions) and maintenance phase with ibrutinib alone until progression or unacceptable toxicity. Fifty patients were recruited (44-warm AIHA, 2-cold AIHA, 4-PRCA). After the induction 34 patients (74%) have achieved complete response, 10 (21.7%) partial response. Median time to hemoglobin normalization was 85 days. With regards to CLL response 9 (19%) patients have achieved CR, 2 (4%) patients-stabilization and 39 (78%)-PR. The median follow-up was 37.56 months. In AIHA group 2 patients had a relapse. Among 4 patients with PRCA 1 patient did not respond, and 1 patient had a relapse after CR, 2 remained in CR. The most common adverse events were neutropenia (62%), infections (72%), gastrointestinal complications (54%). In conclusion ibrutinib in combination with rituximab is an active second-line treatment option for patients with relapsed or refractory AIHA/PRCA and underlying CLL.
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MESH Headings
- Humans
- Rituximab
- Leukemia, Lymphocytic, Chronic, B-Cell/drug therapy
- Leukemia, Lymphocytic, Chronic, B-Cell/complications
- Anemia, Hemolytic, Autoimmune/drug therapy
- Anemia, Hemolytic, Autoimmune/complications
- Thrombocytopenia
- Red-Cell Aplasia, Pure
- Steroids
- Recurrence
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Affiliation(s)
- Eugene Nikitin
- State Budgetary Healthcare Institution of the city of Moscow City Clinical Hospital named after S.P. Botkin of Moscow City Healthcare Department, Moscow, Russian Federation.
- Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution of Further Professional Education "Russian Medical Academy of Continuous Professional Education" of the Ministry of Healthcare of the Russian Federation, Moscow, Russian Federation.
| | - Maria Kislova
- State Budgetary Healthcare Institution of the city of Moscow City Clinical Hospital named after S.P. Botkin of Moscow City Healthcare Department, Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - Dmitry Morozov
- State Budgetary Health Institution of the Nizhny Novgorod Region "Nizhny Novgorod Regional Clinical Hospital named after N.A. Semashko", Nizhny, Novgorod, Russian Federation
| | - Vera Belyakova
- State Budgetary Healthcare Institution of the city of Moscow Blood Center named after O.K. Gavrilov of the Moscow City Healthcare Department, Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - Anna Suvorova
- State Budgetary Health Institution of the Nizhny Novgorod Region "Nizhny Novgorod Regional Clinical Hospital named after N.A. Semashko", Nizhny, Novgorod, Russian Federation
| | - Julia Sveshnikova
- State Autonomous Healthcare Institution of the Sverdlovsk Region "Sverdlovsk Regional Clinical Hospital N 1", Ekaterinburg, Russian Federation
| | - Galina Vyscub
- State Budgetary Health Institution "Volgograd Regional Clinical Oncology Center", Volgograd, Russian Federation
| | - Irina Matveeva
- State Budgetary Health Institution "Volgograd Regional Clinical Oncology Center", Volgograd, Russian Federation
| | - Maria Shirokova
- State Budgetary Healthcare Institution of the city of Moscow City Clinical Hospital named after S.P. Botkin of Moscow City Healthcare Department, Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - Anna Shipaeva
- State Budgetary Health Institution "Volgograd Regional Clinical Oncology Center", Volgograd, Russian Federation
| | - Tatyana Klitochenko
- State Budgetary Health Institution "Volgograd Regional Clinical Oncology Center", Volgograd, Russian Federation
| | - Polina Makarovskaya
- State Budgetary Health Institution of the Nizhny Novgorod Region "Nizhny Novgorod Regional Clinical Hospital named after N.A. Semashko", Nizhny, Novgorod, Russian Federation
| | - Elena Dmitrieva
- State Budgetary Healthcare Institution of the city of Moscow City Clinical Hospital named after S.P. Botkin of Moscow City Healthcare Department, Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - Bella Biderman
- National Medical Research Center for Hematology, Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - Andrei Sudarikov
- National Medical Research Center for Hematology, Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - Tatyana Obukhova
- National Medical Research Center for Hematology, Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - Olga Samoilova
- State Budgetary Health Institution of the Nizhny Novgorod Region "Nizhny Novgorod Regional Clinical Hospital named after N.A. Semashko", Nizhny, Novgorod, Russian Federation
| | - Kamil Kaplanov
- State Budgetary Healthcare Institution of the city of Moscow City Clinical Hospital named after S.P. Botkin of Moscow City Healthcare Department, Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - Tatyana Konstantinova
- State Autonomous Healthcare Institution of the Sverdlovsk Region "Sverdlovsk Regional Clinical Hospital N 1", Ekaterinburg, Russian Federation
| | - Olga Mayorova
- State Budgetary Healthcare Institution of the city of Moscow Blood Center named after O.K. Gavrilov of the Moscow City Healthcare Department, Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - Irina Poddubnaya
- Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution of Further Professional Education "Russian Medical Academy of Continuous Professional Education" of the Ministry of Healthcare of the Russian Federation, Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - Vadim Ptushkin
- State Budgetary Healthcare Institution of the city of Moscow City Clinical Hospital named after S.P. Botkin of Moscow City Healthcare Department, Moscow, Russian Federation
- Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution of Further Professional Education "Russian Medical Academy of Continuous Professional Education" of the Ministry of Healthcare of the Russian Federation, Moscow, Russian Federation
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12
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Cavallaro F, Barcellini W, Fattizzo B. Antibody based therapeutics for autoimmune hemolytic anemia. Expert Opin Biol Ther 2023; 23:1227-1237. [PMID: 37874225 DOI: 10.1080/14712598.2023.2274912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/25/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA) treatment has been revolutionized by the introduction of target therapies, mainly monoclonal antibodies (MoAbs). AREAS COVERED The anti-CD20 rituximab, which targets Ab production by B-cells, induces 80% of response in warm-type AIHA (wAIHA) and 50-60% in cold agglutinin disease (CAD). Other B-cell targeting MoAbs including ianalumab, povetacicept, and obexelimab are under active study. The anti-CD38 MoAb daratumumab has been used in several reports to target long-lived plasma-cells responsible for AIHA relapse, being effective even in multi-refractory cases. Anti-complement MoAbs will soon change the treatment paradigm in CAD; the anti-C1s sutimlimab rapidly increased Hb in more than 80% of the cases. Finally, MoAbs inhibiting the neonatal Fc receptor (FcRn), such as nipocalimab, can reduce the half-life of the pathogenic autoAbs, representing a promising treatment for wAIHA. EXPERT OPINION MoAbs offer the potential to improve efficacy by reducing toxicity. However, there is a huge need for clinical trials exploring response duration rather than short-term efficacy. Complement inhibitors and anti-FcRns do not abrogate autoAb production and are being developed as long-term therapies. Thus, the combination of B-cell/plasma cell targeting drugs deserves to be explored. On the other hand, their rapid efficacy should be exploited for the acute AIHA phase.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Cavallaro
- Hematology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Wilma Barcellini
- Hematology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Bruno Fattizzo
- Hematology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
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13
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Bortolotti M, Barcellini W, Fattizzo B. Molecular pharmacology in complement-mediated hemolytic disorders. Eur J Haematol 2023. [PMID: 37308291 DOI: 10.1111/ejh.14026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2023] [Revised: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 06/01/2023] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
In the last decade, a deeper understanding of the pathogenesis of complement mediated hemolytic disorders, such as paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH), cold agglutinin disease (CAD), warm type autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA) with complement activation (wAIHA), and atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome (aHUS), paved the way to the therapeutic shift from purely supportive approaches to complement-targeted therapies. This resulted in a significant improvement in disease management, survival, and quality of life. In this review, we will provide a snapshot of novel therapies for complement-mediated hemolytic anemias with a focus on those ready to use in clinical practice. C5 inhibitors eculizumab and the long-acting ravulizumab, are the established gold standard for untreated PNH patients, whilst the C3 inhibitor pegcetacoplan should be considered for suboptimal responders to anti-C5 drugs. Several additional compounds targeting the complement cascade at different levels (other C5 inhibitors, factor B and D inhibitors) are under active investigation with promising results. In CAD, immunosuppression with rituximab remains the first-line. However, recently FDA and EMA approved the anti-C1s monoclonal antibody, sutimlimab, that showed dramatic responses and whose regulatory approval is soon awaited in many countries. Other drugs under investigation in AIHA include the C3 inhibitor pegcetacoplan, and the anti-C1q ANX005 for warm AIHA with complement activation. Finally, aHUS is an indication for complement inhibitors. Eculizumab and ravulizumab have been approved, whilst other C5 inhibitors, and novel lectin pathway inhibitors are under active investigation in this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Bortolotti
- Hematology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
- Department of Oncology and Oncohematology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Wilma Barcellini
- Hematology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Bruno Fattizzo
- Hematology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
- Department of Oncology and Oncohematology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
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14
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Gelbenegger G, Berentsen S, Jilma B. Monoclonal antibodies for treatment of cold agglutinin disease. Expert Opin Biol Ther 2023; 23:395-406. [PMID: 37128907 DOI: 10.1080/14712598.2023.2209265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Cold agglutinin disease (CAD) is a difficult-to-treat autoimmune hemolytic anemia and B cell lymphoproliferative disorder associated with fatigue, acrocyanosis and a risk of thromboembolic events. Cold-induced binding of autoantibodies agglutinates red blood cells and triggers the classical complement pathway, leading to predominantly extravascular hemolysis. AREAS COVERED This review summarizes clinical and experimental antibody-based treatments for CAD and analyzes the risks and benefits of B cell and complement directed therapies, and discusses potential future treatments for CAD. EXPERT OPINION Conventional treatment of CAD includes a B cell targeted treatment approach with rituximab, yielding only limited treatment success. Addition of a cytotoxic agent (e.g. bendamustine) increases efficacy but this is accompanied by an increased risk of neutropenia and infection. Novel complement-directed therapies have emerged and were shown to have a good efficacy against hemolysis and safety profile but are expensive and unable to address circulatory symptoms. Complement inhibition with sutimlimab may be used as a bridging strategy until B cell directed therapy with rituximab takes effect or continued indefinitely if needed. Future antibody-based treatment approaches for CAD involve the further development of complement-directed antibodies, combination of rituximab and bortezomib, and daratumumab. Non-antibody based prospective treatments may include the use of Bruton tyrosine kinase inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georg Gelbenegger
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Sigbjørn Berentsen
- Department of Research and Innovation, Haugesund Hospital, Haugesund, Norway
| | - Bernd Jilma
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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15
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Berentsen S. Sutimlimab for the Treatment of Cold Agglutinin Disease. Hemasphere 2023; 7:e879. [PMID: 37153870 PMCID: PMC10155901 DOI: 10.1097/hs9.0000000000000879] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2023] [Accepted: 03/15/2023] [Indexed: 05/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Cold agglutinin disease (CAD) is a rare autoimmune hemolytic anemia and a bone marrow clonal lymphoproliferative disorder. Hemolysis in CAD is complement-dependent and mediated by the classical activation pathway. Patients also frequently suffer from fatigue and cold-induced circulatory symptoms. Although not all patients need treatment, the symptom burden has previously been underestimated. Effective therapies target the clonal lymphoproliferation or the complement activation. Sutimlimab, a humanized monoclonal IgG4 antibody that binds and inactivates complement protein C1s, is the most extensively investigated complement inhibitor for the treatment of CAD. This review addresses the preclinical studies of sutimlimab and the studies of pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics. We then describe and discuss the prospective clinical trials that established sutimlimab as a rapidly acting, highly efficacious, and low-toxic therapeutic agent. This complement inhibitor does not improve the cold-induced circulatory symptoms, which are not complement-mediated. Sutimlimab is approved for the treatment of CAD in the US, Japan, and the European Union. A tentative therapeutic algorithm is presented. The choice of therapy for CAD should be based on an individual assessment, and patients requiring therapy should be considered for inclusion in clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sigbjørn Berentsen
- Department of Research and Innovation, Haugesund Hospital, Helse Fonna Hospital Trust, Haugesund, Norway
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16
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Berentsen S, Fattizzo B, Barcellini W. The choice of new treatments in autoimmune hemolytic anemia: how to pick from the basket? Front Immunol 2023; 14:1180509. [PMID: 37168855 PMCID: PMC10165002 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1180509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/13/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA) is defined by increased erythrocyte turnover mediated by autoimmune mechanisms. While corticosteroids remain first-line therapy in most cases of warm-antibody AIHA, cold agglutinin disease is treated by targeting the underlying clonal B-cell proliferation or the classical complement activation pathway. Several new established or investigational drugs and treatment regimens have appeared during the last 1-2 decades, resulting in an improvement of therapy options but also raising challenges on how to select the best treatment in individual patients. In severe warm-antibody AIHA, there is evidence for the upfront addition of rituximab to prednisolone in the first line. Novel agents targeting B-cells, extravascular hemolysis, or removing IgG will offer further options in the acute and relapsed/refractory settings. In cold agglutinin disease, the development of complement inhibitors and B-cell targeting agents makes it possible to individualize therapy, based on the disease profile and patient characteristics. For most AIHAs, the optimal treatment remains to be found, and there is still a need for more evidence-based therapies. Therefore, prospective clinical trials should be encouraged.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sigbjørn Berentsen
- Department of Research and Innovation, Haugesund Hospital, Helse Fonna Hospital Trust, Haugesund, Norway
| | - Bruno Fattizzo
- Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, and Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Wilma Barcellini
- Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
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17
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Kröller S, Wissuwa B, Dennhardt S, Krieg N, Thiemermann C, Daniel C, Amann K, Gunzer F, Coldewey SM. Bruton's tyrosine kinase inhibition attenuates disease progression by reducing renal immune cell invasion in mice with hemolytic-uremic syndrome. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1105181. [PMID: 36911665 PMCID: PMC9995712 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1105181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 02/08/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Hemolytic-uremic syndrome (HUS) can occur as a complication of an infection with Shiga-toxin (Stx)-producing Escherichia coli. Patients typically present with acute kidney injury, microangiopathic hemolytic anemia and thrombocytopenia. There is evidence that Stx-induced renal damage propagates a pro-inflammatory response. To date, therapy is limited to organ-supportive strategies. Bruton's tyrosine kinase (BTK) plays a pivotal role in recruitment and function of immune cells and its inhibition was recently shown to improve renal function in experimental sepsis and lupus nephritis. We hypothesized that attenuating the evoked immune response by BTK-inhibitors (BTKi) ameliorates outcome in HUS. We investigated the effect of daily oral administration of the BTKi ibrutinib (30 mg/kg) and acalabrutinib (3 mg/kg) in mice with Stx-induced HUS at day 7. After BTKi administration, we observed attenuated disease progression in mice with HUS. These findings were associated with less BTK and downstream phospholipase-C-gamma-2 activation in the spleen and, subsequently, a reduced renal invasion of BTK-positive cells including neutrophils. Only ibrutinib treatment diminished renal invasion of macrophages, improved acute kidney injury and dysfunction (plasma levels of NGAL and urea) and reduced hemolysis (plasma levels of bilirubin and LDH activity). In conclusion, we report here for the first time that BTK inhibition attenuates the course of disease in murine HUS. We suggest that the observed reduction of renal immune cell invasion contributes - at least in part - to this effect. Further translational studies are needed to evaluate BTK as a potential target for HUS therapy to overcome currently limited treatment options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Kröller
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany.,Septomics Research Center, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany
| | - Bianka Wissuwa
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany.,Septomics Research Center, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany
| | - Sophie Dennhardt
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany.,Septomics Research Center, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany
| | - Nadine Krieg
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany.,Septomics Research Center, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany
| | - Christoph Thiemermann
- William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Christoph Daniel
- Department of Nephropathology, Friedrich-Alexander University (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Kerstin Amann
- Department of Nephropathology, Friedrich-Alexander University (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Florian Gunzer
- Department of Hospital Infection Control, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Sina M Coldewey
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany.,Septomics Research Center, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany.,Center for Sepsis Control and Care (CSCC), Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany
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18
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Cold AIHA and the best treatment strategies. HEMATOLOGY. AMERICAN SOCIETY OF HEMATOLOGY. EDUCATION PROGRAM 2022; 2022:90-95. [PMID: 36485161 PMCID: PMC9821124 DOI: 10.1182/hematology.2022000369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Cold-reactive autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA) is rare among the hemolytic anemias. It results when 1 of a variety of processes causes the generation of immunoglobulin M (IgM) autoantibodies against endogenous erythrocytes, resulting in complement activation and predominantly intravascular hemolysis. Cold AIHA is typically a primary lymphoproliferative disorder with marrow B-cell clones producing pathogenic IgM. More rarely, secondary cold AIHA (cAIHA) can develop from malignancy, infection, or other autoimmune disorders. However, in children cAIHA is typically post infection, mild, and self-limited. Symptoms include a sequelae of anemia, fatigue, and acrocyanosis. The severity of disease is variable and highly dependent on the thermal binding range of the autoantibody. In adults, treatment has most commonly focused on reducing antibody production with rituximab-based regimens. The addition of cytotoxic agents to rituximab improves response rates, but at the expense of tolerability. Recent insights into the cause of cold agglutinin disease as a clonal disorder driven by complement form the basis of newer therapeutic options. While rituximab-based regimens are still the mainstay of therapy, options have now expanded to include complement-directed treatments and other B-cell-directed or plasma-cell-directed therapies.
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19
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Fu R, Yu H. [How I diagnose and treat autoimmune hemolytic anemia]. ZHONGHUA XUE YE XUE ZA ZHI = ZHONGHUA XUEYEXUE ZAZHI 2022; 43:910-915. [PMID: 36709181 PMCID: PMC9808870 DOI: 10.3760/cma.j.issn.0253-2727.2022.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- R Fu
- Department of Hematology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin 300052, China
| | - H Yu
- Department of Hematology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin 300052, China
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20
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Ehrlich S, Wichmann C, Spiekermann K. [Autoimmune haemolytic anemias]. Dtsch Med Wochenschr 2022; 147:1243-1250. [PMID: 36126922 DOI: 10.1055/a-1767-8281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
Autoimmune haemolytic anemia (AIHA) is defined as the immune-mediated destruction of red blood cells. In most cases, antibodies that target surface antigens on erythrocytes lead to their premature degradation in the spleen or, less commonly, in the liver. The term includes a heterogenous group of diseases, which differ largely in pathophysiology and treatment. The two most common entities are warm AIHA and cold AIHA. Diagnostic testing involves the analysis of haemolytic markers like lactate dehydrogenase, haptoglobin and unconjugated bilirubin as well as a hemoglobin and reticulocytes. In case of a haemolytic anemia, further testing like a blood smear and a direct antiglobulin test should follow. As diagnostic testing and treatment of AIHA are complex, affected patients should always be referred to a hematologist.In warm AIHA, mainly IgG autoantibodies bind to their antigen on the erythrocyte surface at body temperature, leading to their premature destruction in the spleen. First line treatment options include the administration of steroids which mitigate the destruction of red blood cells by macrophages in the spleen. In contrast, IgM autoantibodies in cold AIHA lead to intravasal agglutination of erythrocytes and complement activation. The IgM antibodies have their highest affinity below body temperature which is why patients experience symptoms mainly in cold-exposed body areas. Although the IgM antibodies dissolve at body temperature, the complement-loaded erythrocytes are destroyed in the liver. Therapeutic options include protection from cold and immunosuppressive agents or complement inhibition.
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21
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Berentsen S, Barcellini W, D'Sa S, Jilma B. Sutimlimab for treatment of cold agglutinin disease: why, how and for whom? Immunotherapy 2022; 14:1191-1204. [PMID: 35946351 DOI: 10.2217/imt-2022-0085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Therapies for cold agglutinin disease have been directed at the pathogenic B-cell clone. Sutimlimab, a monoclonal antibody that targets C1s, is the first complement inhibitor to be extensively studied in cold agglutinin disease. Sutimlimab selectively blocks the classical activation pathway and leaves the alternative and lectin pathways intact. Trials have documented high response rates with rapid improvement in hemolysis, hemoglobin levels and fatigue scores and low toxicity. Sutimlimab was recently approved in the USA. This drug appears to be particularly useful in severely anemic patients who require a rapid response, in acute exacerbations that do not resolve spontaneously and in patients in whom chemoimmunotherapy is contraindicated or has failed. The choice of therapy in cold agglutinin disease should be individualized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sigbjørn Berentsen
- Department of Research and Innovation, Haugesund Hospital, Helse Fonna Hospital Trust, Haugesund, Norway
| | - Wilma Barcellini
- Hematology Unit, Fondazione Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Shirley D'Sa
- University College London Hospitals Centre for Waldenström and Associated Conditions, University College London Hospitals National Health Service Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Bernd Jilma
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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22
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Berentsen S, Tjønnfjord GE. Current treatment options in cold agglutinin disease: B-cell directed or complement directed therapy? Transfus Med Rev 2022; 36:181-187. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tmrv.2022.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2022] [Revised: 05/05/2022] [Accepted: 05/06/2022] [Indexed: 10/15/2022]
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23
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Liu JQ, Zhang FK. [Recent progress in the diagnosis and treatment of cold agglutinin disease]. ZHONGHUA XUE YE XUE ZA ZHI = ZHONGHUA XUEYEXUE ZAZHI 2022; 43:524-528. [PMID: 35968599 PMCID: PMC9800217 DOI: 10.3760/cma.j.issn.0253-2727.2022.06.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- J Q Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, National Clinical Research Center for Blood Diseases, Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, Institute of Hematology & Blood Diseases Hospital, CAMS & PUMC, Tianjin 300020, China
| | - F K Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, National Clinical Research Center for Blood Diseases, Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, Institute of Hematology & Blood Diseases Hospital, CAMS & PUMC, Tianjin 300020, China
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Abstract
INTRODUCTION Autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA) is classified according to the direct antiglobulin test (DAT) and thermal characteristics of the autoantibody into warm and cold forms, and in primary versus secondary depending on the presence of associated conditions. AREAS COVERED AIHA displays a multifactorial pathogenesis, including genetic (association with congenital conditions and certain mutations), environmental (drugs, infections, including SARS-CoV-2, pollution, etc.), and miscellaneous factors (solid/hematologic neoplasms, systemic autoimmune diseases, etc.) contributing to tolerance breakdown. Several mechanisms, such as autoantibody production, complement activation, monocyte/macrophage phagocytosis, and bone marrow compensation are implicated in extra-/intravascular hemolysis. Treatment should be differentiated and sequenced according to AIHA type (i.e. steroids followed by rituximab for warm, rituximab alone or in association with bendamustine or fludarabine for cold forms). Several new drugs targeting B-cells/plasma cells, complement, and phagocytosis are in clinical trials. Finally, thrombosis and infections may complicate disease course burdening quality of life and increasing mortality. EXPERT OPINION Beyond warm and cold AIHA, a gray-zone still exists including mixed and DAT negative forms representing an unmet need. AIHA management is rapidly changing through an increasing knowledge of the pathogenic mechanisms, the refinement of diagnostic tools, and the development of novel targeted and combination therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Fattizzo
- Hematology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy.,Department of Oncology and Hemato-oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - W Barcellini
- Hematology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
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25
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Robak E, Robak T. Bruton's Kinase Inhibitors for the Treatment of Immunological Diseases: Current Status and Perspectives. J Clin Med 2022; 11:2807. [PMID: 35628931 PMCID: PMC9145705 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11102807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2022] [Revised: 05/12/2022] [Accepted: 05/13/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The use of Bruton's tyrosine kinase (BTK) inhibitors has changed the management of patients with B-cell lymphoid malignancies. BTK is an important molecule that interconnects B-cell antigen receptor (BCR) signaling. BTK inhibitors (BTKis) are classified into three categories, namely covalent irreversible inhibitors, covalent reversible inhibitors, and non-covalent reversible inhibitors. Ibrutinib is the first covalent, irreversible BTK inhibitor approved in 2013 as a breakthrough therapy for chronic lymphocytic leukemia patients. Subsequently, two other covalent, irreversible, second-generation BTKis, acalabrutinib and zanubrutinib, have been developed for lymphoid malignancies to reduce the ibrutinib-mediated adverse effects. More recently, irreversible and reversible BTKis have been under development for immune-mediated diseases, including autoimmune hemolytic anemia, immune thrombocytopenia, multiple sclerosis, pemphigus vulgaris, atopic dermatitis, rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, Sjögren's disease, and chronic spontaneous urticaria, among others. This review article summarizes the preclinical and clinical evidence supporting the role of BTKis in various autoimmune, allergic, and inflammatory conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ewa Robak
- Department of Dermatology, Medical University of Lodz, 90-647 Lodz, Poland;
| | - Tadeusz Robak
- Department of Hematology, Medical University of Lodz, 93-510 Lodz, Poland
- Department of General Hematology, Copernicus Memorial Hospital, 93-510 Lodz, Poland
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Development of New Drugs for Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:pharmaceutics14051035. [PMID: 35631621 PMCID: PMC9147507 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14051035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2022] [Revised: 04/27/2022] [Accepted: 05/05/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA) is a rare disorder characterized by the autoantibody-mediated destruction of red blood cells, and treatments for it still remain challenging. Traditional first-line immunosuppressive therapy, which includes corticosteroids and rituximab, is associated with adverse effects as well as treatment failures, and relapses are common. Subsequent lines of therapy are associated with higher rates of toxicity, and some patients remain refractory to currently available treatments. Novel therapies have become promising for this vulnerable population. In this review, we will discuss the mechanism of action, existing data, and ongoing clinical trials of current novel therapies for AIHA, including B-cell-directed therapy, phagocytosis inhibition, plasma cell-directed therapy, and complement inhibition.
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Patriquin CJ, Pavenski K. O, wind, if winter comes … will symptoms be far behind?: Exploring the seasonality (or lack thereof) and management of cold agglutinin disease. Transfusion 2021; 62:2-10. [PMID: 34893982 DOI: 10.1111/trf.16765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2021] [Accepted: 12/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Christopher J Patriquin
- Division of Medical Oncology & Hematology, University Health Network, Toronto General Hospital, Toronto, Canada.,Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Katerina Pavenski
- Departments of Medicine & Laboratory Medicine, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Canada.,Departments of Medicine & Laboratory Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
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Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia in Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia: A Comprehensive Review. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13225804. [PMID: 34830959 PMCID: PMC8616265 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13225804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2021] [Revised: 11/06/2021] [Accepted: 11/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary This review analyzes the occurrence, clinical characteristics, and prognostic impact and treatment of autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA) in chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). Autoimmune hemolytic anemia is observed in about 10% of CLL. Pathogenesis is multifactorial involving humoral, cellular, and innate immunity, so the different mechanisms are well described in this review which also focuses on drugs associated to CLL-AIHA and on difficulties to diagnose it. There is a comprehensive revision of the main published casistics and then of the treatments; in particular the paper analyzes the main chemo-immunotherapeutic agents used in this setting. Since the therapy depends on the presence and severity of clinical symptoms, disease status, and comorbidities, treatment is nowadays more individualized in CLL and also in CLL-AIHA. Patients not responding to corticosteroids and rituximab are treated with CLL-specific drugs as per current guidelines according to age and comorbidities and new targeted agents against BCR and BCL-2 which can be given orally and have few side effects, are very effective both in progressive CLL and in situations such as AIHA. Abstract Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) patients have a greater predisposition to develop autoimmune complications. The most common of them is autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA) with a frequency of 7–10% of cases. Pathogenesis is multifactorial involving humoral, cellular, and innate immunity. CLL B-cells have damaged apoptosis, produce less immunoglobulins, and could be responsible for antigen presentation and releasing inflammatory cytokines. CLL B-cells can act similar to antigen-presenting cells activating self-reactive T helper cells and may induce T-cell subsets imbalance, favoring autoreactive B-cells which produce anti-red blood cells autoantibodies. Treatment is individualized and it depends on the presence and severity of clinical symptoms, disease status, and comorbidities. Corticosteroids are the standardized first-line treatment; second-line treatment comprises rituximab. Patients not responding to corticosteroids and rituximab should be treated with CLL-specific drugs as per current guidelines according to age and comorbidities. New targeted drugs (BTK inhibitors and anti BCL2) are recently used after or together with steroids to manage AIHA. In the case of cold agglutinin disease, rituximab is preferred, because steroids are ineffective. Management must combine supportive therapies, including vitamins; antibiotics and heparin prophylaxis are indicated in order to minimize infectious and thrombotic risk.
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MESH Headings
- Anemia, Hemolytic, Autoimmune/diagnosis
- Anemia, Hemolytic, Autoimmune/pathology
- Anemia, Hemolytic, Autoimmune/physiopathology
- Anemia, Hemolytic, Autoimmune/therapy
- Blood Transfusion
- Complement Inactivating Agents/therapeutic use
- Glucocorticoids/therapeutic use
- Hemoglobinuria, Paroxysmal/diagnosis
- Hemoglobinuria, Paroxysmal/pathology
- Hemoglobinuria, Paroxysmal/physiopathology
- Hemoglobinuria, Paroxysmal/therapy
- Humans
- Immunologic Factors/therapeutic use
- Rituximab/therapeutic use
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Affiliation(s)
- Sigbjørn Berentsen
- From the Department of Research and Innovation, Haugesund Hospital, Helse Fonna Hospital Trust, Haugesund, Norway (S.B.); and the Hematology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan (W.B.)
| | - Wilma Barcellini
- From the Department of Research and Innovation, Haugesund Hospital, Helse Fonna Hospital Trust, Haugesund, Norway (S.B.); and the Hematology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan (W.B.)
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