Optimizing the management of patients with haemophilia A and inhibitors in the era of emicizumab: Recommendations from a German expert panel.

Abstract

Standard treatment of haemophilia A is based on replacing the missing coagulation factor VIII (FVIII) to treat and prevent bleeding episodes. The most challenging complication of FVIII therapy is the development of neutralizing antibodies (inhibitors) that can render treatment ineffective. Eradication of the inhibitor through immune tolerance induction (ITI) remains the most effective strategy for managing these patients. Bypassing agents can be used to help restore haemostasis in inhibitor patients. Several novel agents have recently been developed, such as the FVIII mimetic agent emicizumab, which has been effective in reducing the annualized bleeding rate in haemophilia A patients with inhibitors. When coadministered with repetitive high doses of activated prothrombin complex concentrate (ie >100U/kg/d for ≥24hours), emicizumab was associated with thrombotic microangiopathy and thrombosis events. As a consequence the United Kingdom Haemophilia Centres Doctors' Organisation (UKHCDO) issued the first guidance on the treatment of bleeding episodes in patients receiving emicizumab. To build on and extend this work, a panel of German haemophilia specialists met to discuss the UK guidance, review current evidence and provide additional guidance for German healthcare professionals on how to optimize the management of patients with haemophilia A receiving emicizumab. Recommendations are provided on the use of bypassing and other agents to manage breakthrough bleeding, ITI in the emicizumab era, haemostatic support during surgery and issues relating to laboratory monitoring.