Bleeding Symptoms In Patients Research Articles

Levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine device to treat abnormal uterine bleeding; not one treatment option fits all.

Initially, medical treatment options are preferred in patients with abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB) who are hemodynamically stable. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effectiveness of a levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine device (LNG-IUD) in reducing bleeding symptoms in patients with AUB stratified by underlying pathology. In line with the polyp, adenomyosis, leiomyoma, malignancy (and hyperplasia), coagulopathy, ovulatory disorders, endometrial, iatrogenic and not otherwise classified classification system, patients who were administered LNG-IUD due to adenomyosis, endometrial hyperplasia, leiomyoma and AUB due to not otherwise classified causes were included in the study. A total of 172 otherwise patients with a mean age of 42.58±5.00 years were included. The distributions in the adenomyosis, endometrial hyperplasia, leiomyoma and otherwise unclassified groups were 30.8%, 12.8%, 26.2%, and 30.2%, respectively. Overall effectiveness of LNG-IUD in reducing menstrual bleeding was 82%. The proportion whose bleeding decreased was 95.50% in the endometrial hyperplasia group, 88.70% in the adenomyosis group, 55.60% in the leiomyoma group and 92.30% in the not otherwise classified group. The power of the current study was 99%. The efficacy of LNG-IUD was significantly less in the leiomyoma group (p<0.05) and thus this group were more likely to require surgical intervention. The overall incidence of spotting was 50%. Amenorrhea developed in 14% of patients. While LNG-IUD was more effective in reducing symptoms of AUB in patients with adenomyosis, endometrial hyperplasia and not otherwise classified causes, LNG-IUD was less effective in cases of leiomyoma.

The Influence of Hypothyroid Metabolic Status on Blood Coagulation and the Acquired von Willebrand Syndrome.

The intent of this prospective study aimed to identify the influence of hypothyroid metabolic status on the coagulation and fibrinolytic system and association with the acquired von Willebrand syndrome (VWS-ac). We compared 54 patients without substitution therapy after radical thyroidectomy with 58 control subjects without pathological thyroid-stimulating-hormone (TSH)-values. Patients with TSH > 17.5 mU/L over a period of >4 weeks were included. The control-collective was selected based on age and sex to match the patient-collective. The data were collected using laboratory coagulation tests and patient questionnaires; a bleeding score was determined. There were significant differences in the measurement of activated-partial-thromboplastin-time (aPTT/p = 0.009), coagulation-factor VIII (p < 0.001) and von-Willebrand-activity (VWF-ac/p = 0.004) between the patient and control groups. The patient cohort showed an increased aPTT and decreased factor VIII and VWF-ac. 29.7% of the patient-collective compared to 17.2% of the control subjects met the definition of VWS-Ac (p = 0.12). The bleeding score showed significantly more bleeding symptoms in patients with a laboratory constellation of VWS-ac (no family history; p = 0.04). Our results suggest hypocoagulability in hypothyroid patients. Hypothyroidism appears to have a higher incidence of VWS-ac. The increased risk of bleeding complications in hypothyroid patients may be of relevant importance for the outcome, especially in the context of invasive interventions.

Assessing Bleeding Symptoms in Pediatric Patients With Generalized Joint Hypermobility.

To assess bleeding symptoms in patients with generalized/benign joint hypermobility (GJH), compare bleeding scores to healthy historical pediatric controls, and determine whether a correlation exists between Beighton scores and bleeding scores. Patients with GJH ages 6-21 years seen by the rheumatology department at Nationwide Children's Hospital in Columbus, Ohio were eligible. Participants/guardians completed the International Society on Thrombosis and Haemostasis Bleeding Assessment Tool, a validated questionnaire defining the presence, severity, and frequency of bleeding symptoms. Scores of ≥3 have been associated with an underlying bleeding disorder in pediatric patients. Eighty-one patients agreed to participate. The median age was 13 years (interquartile range 10-16 years), and the mean Beighton score was 6.3 (range 4-9). Commonly observed bleeding symptoms were oral bleeding (74%), easy bruising (59%), and bleeding with minor wounds (42%). Mean and median bleeding scores were 5.2 and 4, respectively, and were significantly higher than reported bleeding scores in pediatric controls, defined as those without bleeding symptoms or a previously diagnosed bleeding disorder (P < 0.001). Although 75% of patients (95% confidence interval 64-84) had an abnormal bleeding score, only 12.3% were previously assessed by hematology for bleeding symptoms. Among patients with GJH, higher Beighton scores were not associated with higher bleeding scores (Spearman's correlation -0.08). In a cohort of pediatric patients with GJH, three-fourths of participants had abnormal bleeding scores, with the mean bleeding score significantly elevated compared to healthy controls. We propose that screening for bleeding symptoms be integrated into routine care for GJH patients, with referral to hematology for patients with bleeding concerns.

Identification of 2,6-Diaminopurine As a Candidate for Hemophilia a Ribosomal Readthrough Therapy

Nonsense mutations introduce premature termination codons (PTCs) and are responsible for 11% hereditary genetic disorders including hemophilias. Drug-induced ribosomal readthrough over PTCs is an emerging strategy to treat the genetic disorders caused by nonsense mutations. Ribosomal readthrough therapy aims to allow translation beyond the PTC, creating a full-length protein and possible phenotypic rescue. Ataluren (PTC124), which induces readthrough by binding to the ribosomal 60S subunit, was recently granted conditional approval in the European Union for the treatment of Duchenne muscular dystrophy caused by nonsense mutations. Most nonsense mutations in FVIII and FIX lead to severe diseases. In theory, hemophilias are ideally suited for drug-induced readthrough therapy, because even a small increase in FVIII or FIX activity to over 1% could significantly improve bleeding symptoms in patients with nonsense mutations. Thus, ribosomal readthrough therapy has the potential to provide a small-molecule, personalized treatments based on patient's mutation profile. We previously investigated different readthrough drugs on different FVIII nonsense mutations and found that geneticin, but not gentamicin and Ataluren, is an effective readthrough agent for a number of such mutations. Recently, 2,6-diaminopurine (DAP), a natural compound found in extracts of the edible mushroom Lepista inversa, has shown high-efficiency correction of UGA nonsense mutations and low toxicity. DAP is thought to act as an inhibitor of a tRNA-specific 2'-O-methyltransferase and promotes the interaction of the near-cognate tRNATrp with the UGA stop codon. We introduced 22 UGA mutations, including the most common recurring mutations from hemophilia A (HA) patients into the B domain deleted FVIII-Gassia luciferase fusion (BDD-Gluc) protein. Cells stably expressing these mutant fusion proteins were treated with DAP and geneticin. DAP induced higher secreted luciferase activity, FVIII antigen and cofactor activity levels in cell culture media than geneticin treatments. A majority of DAP-treated mutants produced FVIII co-factor activities and antigens that are over 2% of wild-type level, with several mutants reaching 10-15% levels. Using an immunoprecipitation-immunoblotting assay, we detected full-length BDD-Gluc fusion proteins in culture media and cell lysates of both DAP- and geneticin-treated cells expressing nonsense mutants. Two major factors affect the outcome of readthrough therapies are the readthrough efficiency of drugs and the nature of replacement of amino acid (AA) residues. Studies had shown that a cytosine at +4 position is a favorable nucleotide sequence context. Readthrough efficiency of F8 mRNA is influenced, but not determined by nucleotide sequence contexts of the PTC. It was reported that only tryptophan was replaced with DAP-induced readthrough while three potential AAs can be replaced with geneticin treatment. We systematically substituted PTCs with potential replacement AAs and found that activities of readthrough products are determined by the compatibility of replacement AA residues with FVIII secretion and activity. Our results suggest that DAP, with its high readthrough efficiency and low toxicity, is a promising drug candidate for HA patients carrying susceptible UGA mutations. This cell-based study identifies candidate patient mutations and provides a rationale for a future clinical study of DAP or one of its derivatives as a therapeutic for these patients.

Assessing bleeding risk in 18 children with Osteogenesis imperfecta

Assessing bleeding risk in 18 children with <i>Osteogenesis imperfecta</i>

Bleeding symptoms in patients diagnosed as type 3 von Willebrand disease: Results from 3WINTERS‐IPS, an international and collaborative cross‐sectional study

BackgroundType 3 von Willebrand's disease (VWD) patients present markedly reduced levels of von Willebrand factor and factor VIII. Because of its rarity, the bleeding phenotype of type 3 VWD is poorly described, as compared to type 1 VWD. AimsTo evaluate the frequency and the severity of bleeding symptoms across age and sex groups in type 3 patients and to compare these with those observed in type 1 VWD patients to investigate any possible clustering of bleeding symptoms within type 3 patients. MethodsWe compared the bleeding phenotype and computed the bleeding score (BS) using the MCMDM‐1VWD bleeding questionnaire in patients enrolled in the 3WINTERS‐IPS and MCMDM‐1VWD studies. ResultsIn 223 unrelated type 3 VWD patients, both the BS and the number of clinically relevant bleeding symptoms were increased in type 3 as compared to type 1 VWD patients (15 versus 6 and 5 versus 3). Intracranial bleeding, oral cavity, hemarthroses, and deep hematomas were at least five‐fold over‐represented in type 3 VWD. A more severe bleeding phenotype was evident in patients having von Willebrand factor antigen levels < 20 IU/dL at diagnosis in the two merged cohorts. In type 3 patients, there was an apparent clustering of hemarthrosis with gastrointestinal bleeding and epistaxis, whereas bleeding after surgery or tooth extraction clusters with oral bleeding and menorrhagia. ConclusionsIn the largest cohort of type 3 VWD patients, we were able to describe a distinct clinical phenotype that is associated with the presence of a more severe hemostatic defect.

The discriminatory power of bleeding assessment tools in adult patients with a mild to moderate bleeding tendency

Background: Bleeding assessment tools (BATs) have been developed to quantify bleeding severity. Their ability to predict for the diagnosis of a bleeding disorder has not been thoroughly investigated. Objectives: To evaluate the ability of the Vicenza BAT and the ISTH BAT to distinguish patients with an established bleeding disorder from those with bleeding of unknown cause (BUC). Patients/Methods: Three-hundred fifty-nine patients (228 with BUC, 64%) from the Vienna Bleeding Biobank were assessed in this study. Results: The bleeding scores were similar in patients with an established diagnosis of a bleeding disorder compared to patients with BUC. Both BATs had a low sensitivity and specificity for the diagnosis of a bleeding disorder with areas under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves of 0.53 (95% confidence interval 0.47–0.60) for the Vicenza BAT and 0.52 (0.46–0.59) for the ISTH BAT. In terms of specific diagnoses, both scores were most accurate in diagnosing von Willebrand disease (VWD, areas under the ROC curve; Vicenza BAT 0.67 (0.45–0.90); ISTH BAT 0.70 (0.50–0.90)). A separate evaluation of different bleeding symptoms in patients who had undergone surgery and tooth extraction revealed that postpartum bleeding and bleeding from small wounds was predictive for diagnosing a MBD in multivariable analysis. Conclusions: The Vicenza- and the ISTH BAT have a low ability to distinguish patients with an established bleeding disorder from those with BUC.

All-Cause and Inhibitor-Related Mortality in Non-Severe Hemophilia Α Patients in the United States

Introduction: The majority of published studies evaluating inhibitors have focused mainly on patients with severe hemophilia A. In non-severe hemophilia A (NSHA) patients, the development of inhibitors can have a profound clinical impact, with major bleeding complications similar to that of patients with severe or acquired hemophilia. Yet, epidemiological data on inhibitors in NSHA patients, specifically mortality, is scarce and currently limited to the European and Australian cohort [Eckhardt CL, et al. J Thromb Haemost. 2015 Jul;13(7):1217-251]. Objectives: To determine the all-cause and inhibitor-related mortality in NSHA patients in the United States using the ATHNdataset Methods: Subjects and study design The ATHNdataset is a 'limited dataset' as defined under the United States Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) to be free of protected health information, with data collection by more than 130 hemophilia treatment centers (HTC) across the United States. It includes patients with congenital bleeding disorders in the United States who have authorized the sharing of their demographic and clinical information for research. Data collection and definitions The ATHNdataset was queried on December 31, 2018 to extract the following information on NSHA patients: Patient demographics, inhibitor status, date of death, and primary cause of death. The presence of inhibitors was defined as: (i) ≥ 2 positive Bethesda inhibitor assay titers of ≥ 1.0 BU/mL; or (ii) a decrease in plasma FVIII coagulant activity (FVIII:C) to at least 50% of baseline activity and/or spontaneous bleeding symptoms in patients with inhibitor titers between 0.6 and 1.0 BU/mL. Patients who had a negative inhibitor history or have never been tested for FVIII inhibitors were classified as negative for inhibitors. Statistical analyses The person-year mortality rate was calculated as the ratio of the number of deaths to the number of person-years at risk, presented as rates per 1000 person-years. Person-years at risk was calculated for each patient as the time between the start of the observation period (January 1, 2010 or date of birth for patients who are born later) and the end of the observation period (date of death, loss-to follow-up or December 31, 2018). Patients who were deceased or lost to follow-up before January 1, 2010 were not included in the analysis. Inhibitor person-years at risk for inhibitor patients was calculated from January 1, 2010 if the first positive inhibitor test occurred prior to January 1, 2010 or from the date of the first positive inhibitor test that occurred during the observation period until the end of the observation period. Inhibitor-related death was attributed to all patients who had a positive inhibitor history. Mortality rates were compared between inhibitor and non-inhibitor patients using z- test. Results: Between 1/1/2010 and 12/31/2018, the ATHNdataset included 6,606 NSHA patients who were born between 1920 and 2018. Patients were observed for a total of 56,064 person-years. 85.57% (n = 5,653) of these patients were observed for the full nine years. The average follow-up time per patient was almost 8.5 years. Inhibitors developed in 171 (2.59%) NSHA patients. The median age for inhibitor development was 13 years (IQR, 6 - 37 years) and the mean age was 22 years. Demographics characteristics of the patients are listed in Table 1. All-cause mortality At the end of follow-up, there was a total of 136 deaths in the NSHA population, occurring at a median age of 63 years (IQR, 51 - 75 years). The overall all-cause mortality rate was 2.43 per 1,000 person-years (95% CI: 2.02 - 2.83). The most common primary cause of death was cancer (n=27, 19.9%) (Table 2). Inhibitor-related mortality Three deaths were associated with inhibitors. Inhibitor-related mortality rate was 2.40 per 1,000 person-years, whereas among the never inhibitor group, the mortality rate was 2.44 per 1,000 person-years (p = 0.790). Mortality risk ratio between inhibitor and never inhibitor was 0.98 (95% CI: 0.31 - 3.08). Conclusion: In NSHA patients, the development of inhibitors occurred at a relatively early age and was not associated with increased mortality. Disclosures Kempton: Novo Nordisk: Research Funding; Octapharma: Honoraria; Genentech: Honoraria; Spark Therapeutics: Honoraria. Key:Uniqure BV: Research Funding.

TKI-Related Platelet Dysfunction Does Not Correlate With Bleeding in Patients With Chronic Phase-Chronic Myeloid Leukemia With Complete Hematological Response

Bleeding has been reported in patients with chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) using tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs). In this study, we aimed to evaluate platelet functions and associated bleeding symptoms in patients with CML using TKIs. A standardized questionnaire that was developed for inherited bleeding disorders (ISTH/SSC Bleeding Assessment Tool) was used to score bleeding symptoms in 68 chronic phase patients with CML receiving imatinib (n = 47), dasatinib (n = 15), or nilotinib (n = 6). Light transmission aggregometry was used for platelet function testing. None of the patients had major bleeding (score > 3). Minor bleeding was observed in 25.6% and 20% of the patients in imatinib and dasatinib treatment groups. Impaired/decreased platelet aggregation was observed in 29.8% of imatinib treatment group, 50% of nilotinib group, and 40% of dasatinib group. A secondary aggregation abnormality compatible with the release defect was observed in 26% of patients with CML; 25.5%, 33.3%, and 16.7% of patients receiving imatinib, dasatinib, and nilotinib, respectively. No correlation was found between bleeding symptoms and the impaired platelet function. We can conclude that TKIs may impair in vitro platelet aggregation but this impairment is not associated with bleeding diathesis.

Clustering of Bleeding Symptoms in Patients Previously Diagnosed As Type 3 Von Willebrand Disease: Results from a Large Cohort of Type 3 Von Willebrand Disease (the 3Winters-Ips Project)

Clustering of Bleeding Symptoms in Patients Previously Diagnosed As Type 3 Von Willebrand Disease: Results from a Large Cohort of Type 3 Von Willebrand Disease (the 3Winters-Ips Project)

The Atlanta Protocol: Immune Tolerance Induction in Pediatric Patients with Hemophilia a and Inhibitors on Emicizumab

Introduction: The formation of neutralizing anti-factor VIII (fVIII) antibodies, called inhibitors, is a challenging complication in hemophilia A care. While novel non-factor therapies significantly reduce bleeding symptoms in patients with hemophilia A and inhibitors, the absence of fVIII tolerance remains unchanged. Additionally, there are concerns regarding the hemostatic efficacy and safety of bypassing agents necessary for the management of breakthrough bleeds in patients with inhibitors on these novel therapies. Immune tolerance induction (ITI) remains the primary method for eradicating inhibitors and restoring the hemostatic response to fVIII. Here we report on the response to ITI in pediatric patients following initiation of the bispecific humanized monoclonal antibody Emicizumab.Methods: Patients between the ages of 1 - 11 years old with hemophilia A and an active inhibitor (≥0.6 Bethesda Units (BU)/mL) treated at the Emory Pediatric Hemophilia Treatment Center were included in this analysis. In general, ITI was initiated after four weekly loading doses of Emicizumab with standard or extended half-life recombinant (rfVIII) or plasma-derived (pdfVIII) fVIII at 100 units/kg three times per week. Factor choice was determined by the fVIII product used for the ITI attempt prior to initiation of Emicizumab or a standard half-life third generation rfVIII product if no prior ITI attempts. FVIII pharmacokinetics during ITI including the estimated fVIII half-life, fVIII incremental recovery of expected, and inhibitor titers were measured with chromogenic-based assays using bovine reagents. Bleeding symptoms and treatment regimens for bleeds/procedures were also monitored.Results: Eight patients are currently receiving ITI according to this Atlanta Protocol. Details regarding this cohort are outlined in Table 1. Three of the 8 patients required central venous access for ITI fVIII infusions. These eight patients have historical peak inhibitor titers, defined as the highest inhibitor titer prior to this ITI regimen, ranging from 2.0 - 198 BU/mL. Four patients have just recently started ITI. The other 4 patients (patients 1, 2, 4, and 5) have been treated with Emicizumab and ITI for a median duration of 15 weeks (range 13-18 weeks). Two of the 4 patients are on ITI with a standard half-life third generation rfVIII product, 1 is on a standard half-life third generation B domain deleted (BDD) rfVIII product, and 1 is on an extended half-life (EHL) rfVIII-Fc fusion product. Their last measured inhibitor titers after initiation of ITI range from 0.3 - 3.7 chromogenic BU (CBU). All inhibitor titers declined with the start of ITI, and none of the 4 patients experienced an amnestic response (Figure 1). The fVIII incremental recovery improved in 3 of the 4 patients from a median of 30% of expected (range 17-69%) prior to Emicizumab with ITI to 85% of expected (range 67-85%) at the last clinical evaluation. The 1 patient remaining has an fVIII incremental recovery <10% of expected at the last clinical evaluation. Only one patient has required treatment with a single dose of recombinant activated factor VII (rfVIIa) for a right knee hemarthrosis during ITI without complication. There were 3 additional mild bleeding symptoms in 2 patients that did not require intervention including 1 trauma-induced forehead hematoma that self-resolved and 2 episodes self-resolving epistaxis lasting <5 minutes. Two of the 4 patients reported no bleeding symptoms. There were no episodes of thrombosis or thrombotic microangiopathy.Conclusions: This is the first report detailing the Atlanta Protocol for ITI in hemophilia A patients with inhibitors receiving Emicizumab prophylaxis. Although early, these results suggest that ITI can be safely administered in these patients and is able to achieve continued improvement in clinical indicators of tolerance. DisclosuresBatsuli:Bayer: Other: Advisory Board; Genentech: Other: Advisory Board; Octapharma: Other: Advisory Board. Zimowski:National Hemophilia Association/Shire: Other: Funding for clinical fellowship in Hemostasis/Thrombosis. Meeks:Bioverativ: Other: Advisory Board; Bayer: Other: Advisory Board; CSL Behring: Other: Advisory Board; Catalyst Biosciences: Other: Advisory Board; Genentech: Other: Advisory Board; HEMA Biologics: Other: Advisory Board; Shire: Other: Advisory Board; Pfizer: Research Funding. Sidonio:Genentech: Other: Advisory Board, Research Funding; Bioverativ: Other: Advisory Board, Research Funding; Biomarin: Other: Advisory Board; Novo Nordisk: Other: Advisory Board; Octapharma: Other: Advisory Board; Grifols: Other: Advisory Board, Research Funding; Uniqure: Other: Advisory Board; CSL Behring: Other: Advisory Board; Shire: Other: Advisory Board, Research Funding; Kedrion: Research Funding.

Maintaining Perioperative Hemostasis in Patients with Severe Hemophilia A and Inhibitors Receiving Emicizumab Prophylaxis

Introduction: Patients with severe hemophilia A and anti-factor VIII (fVIII) antibodies (inhibitors) are at risk of significant bleeding during invasive procedures. Prior to the introduction of the bispecific humanized antibody, emicizumab, the standard of care for preventing perioperative bleeding in these patients consisted of repeated doses of bypassing agents such as recombinant activated factor VII (rfVIIa) and activated prothrombin complex concentrates (aPCCs) or high-doses of fVIII products. This practice often prolonged hospital admission and was associated with increased patient-care costs. Prophylaxis with emicizumab has significantly reduced bleeding symptoms in patients with hemophilia A and inhibitors. However, questions regarding the appropriate management of acute bleeding episodes and invasive procedures in patients receiving this novel therapy remain unanswered. Additionally, there are concerns about the hemostatic efficacy and safety of fVIII products and bypassing agents necessary for the management of perioperative bleeding and breakthrough bleeds in patients with inhibitors treated with emicizumab. In this case series, we report on the perioperative management and outcomes of patients receiving emicizumab prophylaxis who underwent invasive procedures. Methods: Patients between the ages of 1 - 60 years old with severe hemophilia A (fVIII activity Results: Seven patients underwent invasive procedures while on emicizumab prophylaxis and an additional two patients had minor procedures performed that required observation alone. These patients have historical peak inhibitor titers, defined as the highest inhibitor titer prior to starting emicizumab ranging from 2.0 - 4,792 BU/mL. Their inhibitor titers prior to the procedure ranged from 0 - 193.3 BU/mL. All patients initiated emicizumab prophylaxis at a median of 12 weeks prior to their procedures (range: 2 - 28 weeks). All 4 of the pediatric patients requiring invasive procedures underwent central venous access device (CVAD) - related procedures. The 3 adult patients requiring invasive procedures underwent removal of an infected penile prosthesis, a complex dental extraction consisting of 4 extractions and 1 alveoloplasty, and a right elbow synovectomy with radial head excision. Six patients were admitted to the inpatient hematology service for observation for a median of 48 hours (range: 24 - 168 hours) following their procedures. No patient required readmission after hospital discharge. All patients experienced minimal blood loss perioperatively, and none required transfusions of blood products. The patient undergoing CVAD removal developed a hematoma at the prior port site noted 1 week post-procedure that responded to rfVIIa 90 mcg/kg once daily for 2 days. A second patient had mild surgical site bleeding 1 week post-procedure, which responded to one dose of rfVIIa (90 mcg/kg). No other patient had bleeding complications, and no patient experienced thrombosis or thrombotic microangiopathy. The perioperative management plans are outlined in Table 1. Conclusions: This is the largest case series outside of the HAVEN series detailing the perioperative management of severe hemophilia A patients with a history of low or high titer inhibitors receiving emicizumab prophylaxis. During these invasive procedures, these patients required decreased dosing of fVIII products or bypassing agents and experienced minimal complications. Minor procedures were able to be completed with observation alone. Disclosures Zimowski:National Hemophilia Association/Shire: Other: Funding for clinical fellowship in Hemostasis/Thrombosis. Batsuli:Bayer: Other: Advisory Board; Genentech: Other: Advisory Board; Octapharma: Other: Advisory Board. Reding:Genentech: Other: Advisory Board. Callaghan:Global Blood Therepeutics: Employment; Amgen: Employment; Octapharma: Honoraria; Novo Nordisk: Employment, Membership on an entity9s Board of Directors or advisory committees; Alnylam Pharmaceuticals: Equity Ownership; Hema Pharmaceuticals: Honoraria; Roche/Genentech: Employment, Honoraria, Membership on an entity9s Board of Directors or advisory committees; Shire: Honoraria, Membership on an entity9s Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding; Grifols: Honoraria; Bayer: Honoraria, Membership on an entity9s Board of Directors or advisory committees; Bioverativ: Honoraria; Sancilio Pharmaceuticals Company: Employment; Pfizer: Employment, Honoraria, Research Funding. Meeks:HEMA Biologics: Other: Advisory Board; Genentech: Other: Advisory Board; Catalyst Biosciences: Other: Advisory Board; CSL Behring: Other: Advisory Board; Bayer: Other: Advisory Board; Bioverativ: Other: Advisory Board; Shire: Other: Advisory Board; Pfizer: Research Funding. Sidonio:Uniqure: Other: Advisory Board; Novo Nordisk: Other: Advisory Board; Genentech: Other: Advisory Board, Research Funding; Kedrion: Research Funding; Shire: Other: Advisory Board, Research Funding; Octapharma: Other: Advisory Board; Biomarin: Other: Advisory Board; Bioverativ: Other: Advisory Board, Research Funding; Grifols: Other: Advisory Board, Research Funding; CSL Behring: Other: Advisory Board.

Platelet Integrin αIIbβ3 Activation Kinetics in Inherited Platelet Functional Disorders ∼ the Role of ADP Receptor P2Y12, Caldag-GEFI and Kindlin-3 αIIbβ3 Activation By inside-out Signaling

Background and objectivesActivation of platelet fibrinogen receptor integrin αIIbβ3 (GPIIb-IIIa) by inside-out signaling is essential for platelet aggregate formation. In αIIbβ3 activation, it has been established that CalDAG-GEFI-induced Rap1 activation is necessary to induce the direct interaction of β3 cytoplasmic tail with talin and kindlin-3. Agonist induced platelet and αIIbβ3 activation are generally assessed using platelet aggregation assay and flow cytometric analysis of monoclonal antibody specific for activated αIIbβ3, PAC-1, binding. However, we found that the results of PAC-1 binding assay were not associated with severity of bleeding symptoms in patient with CalDAG-GEFI (Blood 2016) or ADP receptor P2Y12 (J Thromb Haemost 2005) deficiency.To further determine the role of molecules in inside-out signaling on αIIbβ3 activation and the impact on hemostasis, we studied the αIIbβ3 activation kinetics in patient's platelets deficient for αIIbβ3, P2Y12, CalDAG-GEFI, or kindlin-3 using the αIIbβ3 velocity assay (Exp Hematol 2013).MethodsHuman platelets were obtained from healthy control subjects and patients with inherited platelet disorders (Glanzmann thrombasthenia, P2Y12 deficiency, CalDAG-GEFI deficiency, and kindlin-3 deficiency). Agonist induced platelet and αIIbβ3 activation were assessed by light transmission aggregometer and PAC-1 binding on flow cytometry. In addition to the conventional PAC-1 binding assay which is simultaneous incubation of stimulated platelets with FITC-PAC-1 for 20 minutes, the time course of αIIbβ3 activation was determined by αIIbβ3 velocity assay. In brief, to measure the activation state of αIIbβ3 at the time of interest (0, 30, 60, 120 and 300 seconds), FITC-labeled PAC-1 was added after the PAR1-AP stimulation. After 30 seconds incubation with FITC-PAC-1, the bound FITC-PAC-1 was immediately assessed by flow cytometry. To determine the thrombus formation under the physiological condition, shear-induced thrombus formation on collagen coated surface was observed.ResultsIn the patient with kindlin-3 deficiency, strongly impaired platelet aggregation and αIIbβ3 activation determined by conventional PAC-1 binding were correlated to the patients severe bleeding problems appeared from early infancy. The αIIbβ3 activation kinetics of kindling-3 deficient platelets showed no PAC-1 binding during 300 seconds after the thrombin receptor agonist PAR1-AP stimulation like platelets of Granzmann thrombasthenia, which suggests the essential role of Kindlin-3 in αIIbβ3 activation. In contrast, in spite of the strongly impaired PAC-1 binding in conventional assay for P2Y12 deficient platelets, the 67 year-old patient showed only minor bleeding symptoms and no transfusion was required during delivery. The αIIbβ3 activation observed in P2Y12 deficiency was transient and the level of initial activation at 30 seconds was the same as healthy control platelets. Under the flow conditions, P2Y12 deficient platelets could form thrombus albeit unstable and fragile. In the 16-yaer-old patient with CalDAG-GEFI deficiency who has been suffering from severe nose bleed and menorrhagia, her platelet aggregation and conventional PAC-1 binding were only modestly affected. The time course of αIIbβ3 activation showed delayed activation. Although αIIbβ3 activation in CalDAG-GEFI deficient platelets reached to similar to that of control at 300 seconds, the initial activation at 30 seconds was significantly decreased to only 19% of control. Her platelets could adhere on collagen under the flow condition. However, almost no aggregate formation was observed which explains her severe bleeding symptoms.ConclusionThe analyses of αIIbβ3 activation kinetics in platelets with inherited platelet disorder revealed the importance of immediate and sustained αIIbβ3 activation for hemostasis in physiological conditions. In addition to well established platelet functional assay, the analysis of αIIbβ3 activation kinetics contributes to understand the patient's bleeding symptoms and also clarifies the role of each molecule in inside-out αIIbβ3 activation, CalDAG-GEFI for the immediate activation, P2Y12 for the maintenance of activation, and Kindlin-3 at the last step of αIIbβ3 activation. DisclosuresKanakura:Alexion Pharmaceuticals, Inc.: Consultancy, Honoraria, Research Funding. Tomiyama:Kyowa Hakko Kirin Co., Ltd.: Honoraria; Novartis Pharma Co., Ltd.: Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Sysmex Corporation: Consultancy; Chugai Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.: Honoraria.

The Association of Aging With Von Willebrand Factor Levels and Bleeding Risk in Type 1 Von Willebrand Disease.

Little is known about aging in von Willebrand disease (VWD). It is uncertain whether VWD patients experience an age-related increase in von Willebrand factor (VWF) levels, and if so, it is unknown whether normalization of VWF levels with aging ameliorates bleeding risk. We aimed to determine the association of age with VWF levels and bleeding risk in patients with type 1 VWD. This is a retrospective chart review of patients with type 1 VWD presenting to the Hemophilia Clinic of Western Pennsylvania for regularly scheduled clinic visits. Data collected included VWF antigen level and condensed molecular and clinical markers for the diagnosis and management of Type 1 (MCMDM-1) VWD bleeding assessment tool (BAT) bleeding score based on bleeding symptoms during the previous 3 years. Thirty-nine patients participated in the study, and 32 were female. The average age of participants was 41.8 ± 18.0 years. The mean VWF antigen level was 0.83 ± 0.37 IU/mL, and the mean bleeding score was 2.51 ± 2.90. The bleeding score was inversely associated with age, β = -0.080 (SE = 0.023), P < .01. There was a nonsignificant association between VWF antigen levels and age. To our knowledge, this is the first report showing an association between aging and decreased bleeding symptoms in patients with type 1 VWD. Determining whether or not bleeding risk is reduced in older patients with type 1 VWD is essential for optimal clinical management. Moreover, VWF concentrate is costly, and unwarranted use represents a significant waste of health-care dollars. These findings warrant further investigation.

The Effects of Aging on Von Willebrand Factor Levels and Bleeding Risk in Type 1 Von Willebrand Disease

Introduction: Little is known about aging in von Willebrand disease (VWD). While it has been well established that von Willebrand factor (VWF) levels increase with age among healthy adults, it is uncertain if VWD patients experience an age related increase in VWF levels, although limited data suggests so. Furthermore, it is unknown if normalization of VWF levels with aging ameliorates bleeding risk. We aimed to determine the effects of aging on VWF levels and bleeding risk in patients with type 1 VWD. Methods: This is a cross-sectional study of patients with type 1 VWD presenting to the Hemophilia Clinic of Western Pennsylvania for regularly scheduled clinical visits. Exclusion criteria included concomitant hereditary bleeding disorder. Blood samples were obtained to determine VWF antigen level, VWF ristocetin cofactor activity, and factor VIII activity. A bleeding score was obtained using the condensed MCMDM-1 VWD bleeding assessment tool (BAT); however, we calculated the bleeding score based on bleeding symptoms over the previous three years. The prophylactic use of DDAVP or VWF concentrate prior to surgery was not included in the determination of the bleeding score. Descriptive statistics for continuous variables included mean, median, range, and standard error. Frequencies and percentages were used for categorical variables. Simple linear regression was used to predict the association of age with VWF antigen level and bleeding score. Results: The average age of participants was 43.5 ± 5.28 years (median 38, range 22 to 85). Twelve of 14 patients were female. The mean VWF antigen level was 0.97 ± 0.10 IU/mL (median 0.88, range 0.58 to 1.56). The mean bleeding score was 1.64 ± 0.52 (median 1, range 0 to 6). Four of 12 female patients reported use of estrogen containing oral contraceptives. None reported pregnancy. A simple linear regression was calculated to predict bleeding score based on age. Average bleeding score was inversely proportion to age, with a decrease of 0.057 (-0.107, 0.006) for each year of age, p =0.03. There was no significant correlation between VWF antigen level and age, with an increase in average VWF antigen level of 0.003 (-0.009, 0.014) for each year of age, p =0.60. Discussion: To our knowledge, this is the first report showing age-related amelioration of bleeding symptoms in patients with type 1 VWD. Prior studies have reported contradictory findings, some reporting that bleeding symptoms do not lessen with aging in patients with type 1 VWD. Several studies may be confounded by study design, including the method of BAT administration. Determining the bleeding score using lifetime bleeding symptoms may not be reflective of present day bleeding risk (i.e. an older patient with a remote history of moderate to severe bleeding without bleeding symptoms for several years). We found no association between aging and VWF antigen levels, which may, in part, be related to the small sample size. Determining whether or not bleeding risk is reduced in elderly type 1 VWD patients is essential for optimal clinical management. If older type 1 VWD patients have experienced normalization of VWF levels, and no longer have an increased risk of bleeding, administration of DDAVP or VWF concentrate may be harmful. Thrombosis risk increases with aging, and providing DDAVP or VWF concentrate unnecessarily may increase thrombosis risk, especially among patients with underlying CVD, CVD-related risk factors, or concomitant hypercoagulable states. Moreover, VWF concentrate is costly, and unwarranted use represents a significant waste of healthcare dollars. For these reasons, we plan a multicenter, cross-sectional study (VWD Aging and Bleeding Correlation Study, VWD-ABC) to further investigate the effects of aging on VWF levels and bleeding risk in patients with type 1 VWD. Disclosures Ragni: OPKO: Research Funding; Tacere Benitec: Consultancy; Biogen: Consultancy, Research Funding; Novo Nordisk: Research Funding; Alnylam Pharmaceuticals: Consultancy, Research Funding; Baxalta: Research Funding; Genentech: Research Funding; Biomarin: Consultancy; CSL Behring: Research Funding; Shire: Consultancy; SPARK: Research Funding; Vascular Medicine Institute: Research Funding.

New treatment approaches to von Willebrand disease.

von Willebrand disease (VWD) is the commonest inherited bleeding disorder and results from either a quantitative or qualitative deficiency in the plasma glycoprotein von Willebrand factor (VWF). Recent large cohort studies have significantly enhanced our understanding of the molecular mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of VWD. In contrast, however, there have been relatively few advances in the therapeutic options available for the treatment of bleeding in patients with VWD. Established treatment options include tranexamic acid, 1-deamino-8-d-arginine vasopressin (DDAVP), and plasma-derived VWF concentrates. In addition, a recombinant VWF has also recently been developed. In this review, we focus on how recent insights into the clinical and molecular aspects underpinning VWD are already beginning to influence treatment in the clinic. For example, a number of different bleeding assessment tools (BATs) have been developed to objectively assess bleeding symptoms in patients with VWD. Interestingly, however, these BAT scores may also have an important role to play in predicting bleeding risk in VWD. Furthermore, recent studies have demonstrated that enhanced VWF clearance plays a critical role in the etiology of both type 1 and type 2 VWD. These findings have direct translational relevance with respect to the use of DDAVP in patients with VWD. As understanding of the mechanisms involved in VWD pathogenesis continues to advance, novel treatment options are likely to emerge. Critically, however, large adequately powered and stratified clinical trials will be required to address the outstanding questions that remain regarding VWD treatment optimization.

Light Transmission Aggregometry Does Not Correlate With the Severity of δ-Granule Platelet Storage Pool Deficiency.

Delta-granule platelet storage pool deficiency (δ-PSPD) is a poorly studied bleeding diathesis resulting from either decreased granule content or decreased average number of platelet δ-granules. Light transmission aggregometry (LTA) is commonly used to evaluate for δ-PSPD and platelet electron microscopy (EM) is used to confirm the diagnosis. Currently, little data exist examining the relationship between the likelihood of abnormal platelet aggregation findings, severity of δ-granule deficiency on platelet EM, and severity of bleeding symptoms in patients with δ-PSPD. Patients diagnosed with δ-PSPD by platelet EM who also underwent LTA testing were identified at a single institution for correlation between severity of bleeding, average number of platelet δ-granules, and number of agonist abnormalities on LTA. No statistically significant association was identified between the average number of δ-granules per platelet and likelihood of an abnormal LTA. LTA abnormalities were quite varied and only 50% diagnosed with δ-PSPD on EM had abnormal aggregation testing. Also, no correlation was seen between the number of clinical bleeding symptoms, number of average δ-granules per platelet, and the number of LTA agonist abnormalities. Our findings highlight the difficulties inherent in the laboratory evaluation of platelet function.

Use of ISTH bleeding assessment tool to predict inherited platelet dysfunction in resource constrained settings

Background: The International Society of Thrombosis & Hemostasis (ISTH) bleeding assessment tool (ISTH-BAT) is used to record bleeding symptoms in patients with possible bleeding disorders.Aim: To investigate the utility of the ISTH-BAT in predicting platelet dysfunction in individuals with suspected inherited platelet function disorders.Method: Individuals with clinical evidence of bleeding and suspected inherited platelet function disorder and healthy volunteers were included in the study. The ISTH-BAT questionnaire was applied prior to light transmission aggregometry (LTA).Results: A total of 261 participants were included (100 healthy volunteers, and 161 with suspected inherited platelet function disorders). The ISTH-BAT score in participants with suspected inherited platelet function disorders (median 2; interquartile range [IQR] 5–1) was significantly higher than in healthy volunteers (median 0; IQR 2–0). There was also a significant difference between participants with suspected inherited platelet function disorders with a platelet defect detected by LTA (median 4; IQR 8–3) and those with normal platelet function (median 2; IQR 3–1) (p < 0.001). The ISTH-BAT score was associated with a demonstrable platelet defect on platelet function testing (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve = 0.8 [95% confidence interval 0.72–0.87, p = < 0.001] and odds ratio 3.25 [95% confidence interval 2.13–4.37, p = < 0.001]).Conclusion: The ISTH-BAT is a useful tool for documenting bleeding symptoms and the score obtained is also predictive of the presence of a platelet defect on LTA in patients with suspected inherited platelet dysfunction.

THE ROLE OF BLEEDING HISTORY AND CLINICAL MARKERS FOR THE CORRECT DIAGNOSIS OF VWD

Quantification of the bleeding severity by use of bleeding assessment tools (BAT) and bleeding score (BS) has been consistently shown to improve the clinical diagnosis of von Willebrand disease (VWD) while helping researchers establish phenotype/genotype correlations. Subjects with a BS equal or higher than 3 may be consider having a bleeding tendency, and should be referred for a laboratory investigation, particularly for VWD. In the diagnosis of type 1 VWD, the use of the BS has been shown to be highly specific (>95%) with reported sensitivities ranging from 40 to 100%. The BS is related to all available measurements of von Willebrand factor activity, including the PFA-100 closure time. Therefore, in clinical practice the use of BAT should always be the first step to standardize the assessment of patients with suspected VWD. The use of the recent ISTH consensus BAT is suggested to harmonize the collection of bleeding symptoms in patients with a suspected or confirmed hemostatic disorder, particularly VWD. The ISTH BAT is also coupled with a Web-based repository of bleeding symptoms, therefore providing an integrated framework for collaboration in the field of clinical evaluation of VWD and mild bleeding disorders.

Long-Term Safety and Efficacy of Eltrombopag in Adults with Chronic Immune Thrombocytopenia (ITP): Report of up to 5.5 Years of Treatment in EXTEND.

AbstractAbstract 2198 Background:Eltrombopag is an oral thrombopoietin receptor agonist approved for treatment of chronic ITP. Eltrombopag safely increased platelets and reduced bleeding in 6-week and 6-month placebo-controlled trials in patients with previously treated chronic ITP. EXTEND is an ongoing, open-label extension study of the safety and efficacy of long-term treatment with eltrombopag in chronic ITP patients who completed a previous eltrombopag study. Methods:Patients had received eltrombopag or placebo in a prior study. Eltrombopag was started at 50 mg and titrated to between 75 and 25 mg daily or less often, based on platelet counts. Patients were considered to have completed EXTEND if they had received ≥2 years of therapy and transitioned off due to commercial availability of eltrombopag, whether or not they continued with treatment. The study started in June 2006, and an update on long-term safety and efficacy up to February 2012 is presented. Results:Of 302 patients enrolled, 31% (95) completed the study, 48% (146) withdrew, and 20% (61) remain on study. The most common reasons for withdrawal were adverse events (AEs, 14%), patient decision (14%), and lack of efficacy (11%). Platelet counts at baseline were ≤15,000/μL (43%), >15,000-<30,000/μL (27%), 30,000–50,000/μL (17%), and >50,000/μL (13%); 38% were splenectomized, 33% were receiving concomitant ITP medication, and 53% had received ≥3 previous ITP therapies. 253 patients were treated for ≥6 months, 217 for ≥1 year, 176 for ≥2 years, and 59 for ≥4 years; 10 patients (3%) were treated for ≥5 years. Median duration of exposure was 121 weeks (range, 0.3–285 weeks), and median average daily dose was 51.4 mg. Overall, 85% (257/302) of patients achieved a platelet count ≥50,000/μL in the absence of rescue therapy, and 62% of patients achieved platelets ≥50,000/μL for ≥50% of on-treatment weeks. The proportion of patients achieving platelets ≥50,000/μL was similar regardless of baseline splenectomy status: splenectomy, 80% vs no splenectomy, 88%. Median platelet counts increased to ≥50,000/μL by Week 2 and remained consistently ≥50,000/μL through Week 241. The incidence of any bleeding symptoms (WHO grades 1–4) decreased from 57% at baseline to 16% at Week 52, 19% at Week 104, 12% at Week 156, and 14% at Week 208. Clinically significant bleeding (WHO grades 2–4) decreased from 17% at baseline to 4%, 5%, 0%, and 0% at Weeks 52, 104, 156, and 208, respectively. AEs and serious AEs (SAEs) occurred in 91% (275) and 29% (89) of patients, respectively. The most frequent AEs were headache (27%), nasopharyngitis (24%), and upper respiratory tract infection (22%). 43 patients (14%) were withdrawn due to AEs, 29 (10%) of which were SAEs. Twenty-five thromboembolic events (TEEs) were reported in 19 patients (6%); the incidence rate is 2.70/100 patient years (95% CI, 1.62–4.21). Observed TEEs were deep vein thrombosis (10), central nervous system ischemic events (7), myocardial infarction (5), and pulmonary embolism (3). No association has been observed with elevated platelet counts, as only 3/19 patients experienced the TEE at or shortly after their maximum platelet count achieved on study. Hepatobiliary laboratory abnormalities (HBLAs) meeting drug-induced liver injury screening criteria (FDA Guidance for Industry Drug-Induced Liver Injury, 2009) were reported in 36 patients (12%). None were associated with signs of liver impairment, and most resolved either while on treatment or after discontinuation. Eight patients were withdrawn as a result of HBLA. An independent central pathology review of bone marrow (BM) biopsies stained for reticulin from 113 patients treated with eltrombopag for up to 4.75 years revealed no clinically relevant increase in reticulin deposition. 2 patients (2%) had maximum reticulin grade of ≥MF-2 after >24 months on treatment; neither experienced any AE or abnormality in hematologic parameters potentially related to impaired BM function. Conclusions:Eltrombopag was effective in increasing and maintaining platelets ≥50,000/μL and reducing bleeding symptoms in patients with chronic ITP. Eltrombopag was well tolerated with exposures up to 5.5 years. Rates of TEE and HBLA have not increased with longer time on treatment, and analyses of BM biopsies revealed no clinically significant increase in reticulin deposition. No new safety signals were observed in this long-term study. Long-term safety and efficacy continue to be assessed. Disclosures:Cheng:GlaxoSmithKline: Honoraria, Speakers Bureau. Bussel:Amgen: Equity Ownership, Membership on an entity’s Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding; Cangene: Research Funding; GlaxoSmithKline: Equity Ownership, Membership on an entity’s Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding; Genzyme: Research Funding; IgG of America: Research Funding; Immunomedics: Research Funding; Ligand: Membership on an entity’s Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding; Eisai, Inc: Membership on an entity’s Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding; Shinogi: Membership on an entity’s Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding; Symphogen: Membership on an entity’s Board of Directors or advisory committees; Sysmex: Research Funding; Portola: Consultancy. Burgess:GlaxoSmithKline: Employment, Equity Ownership. Bakshi:GlaxoSmithKline: Employment, Equity Ownership. Brainsky:GlaxoSmithKline: Employment, Equity Ownership, Patents & Royalties. Bailey:GlaskoSmithKline: Employment, Equity Ownership.