Hematology Reports

15 pages, 668 KiB

Open AccessReview

Navigating Lymphomas through BCR Signaling and Double-Hit Insights: Overview

by Antonella Argentiero, Alessandro Andriano, Donatello Marziliano and Vanessa Desantis

Hematol. Rep. 2024, 16(1), 164-178; https://doi.org/10.3390/hematolrep16010017 - 21 Mar 2024

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Non-Hodgkin’s lymphomas (NHLs) are a heterogeneous group of lymphoproliferative disorders originating from B, T, or NK lymphocytes. They represent approximately 4–5% of new cancer cases and are classified according to the revised WHO system based on cell lineage, morphology, immunophenotype, and genetics. Diagnosis [...] Read more.

Non-Hodgkin’s lymphomas (NHLs) are a heterogeneous group of lymphoproliferative disorders originating from B, T, or NK lymphocytes. They represent approximately 4–5% of new cancer cases and are classified according to the revised WHO system based on cell lineage, morphology, immunophenotype, and genetics. Diagnosis requires adequate biopsy material, though integrated approaches are used for leukemic presentations. Molecular profiling is improving classification and identifying prognostic markers. Indolent NHLs, such as follicular lymphoma and marginal zone lymphoma, typically pursue a non-aggressive clinical course with long survival. Aggressive diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is the most common subtype. Recent studies have elucidated pathogenic mechanisms like MYC translocations and BCR pathway mutations. “Double hit” lymphomas with MYC and BCL2/BCL6 alterations confer a poor prognosis. Treatment approaches are evolving, with chemoimmunotherapy remaining standard for many indolent cases while intensified regimens and targeted agents show promise for refractory or high-risk aggressive disease. Continued elucidation of the genetic and microenvironmental underpinnings of lymphomagenesis is critical for developing personalized therapeutic strategies. Full article

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13 pages, 1284 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Drug–Drug Interactions of FXI Inhibitors: Clinical Relevance

by Nicola Ferri, Elisa Colombo and Alberto Corsini

Hematol. Rep. 2024, 16(1), 151-163; https://doi.org/10.3390/hematolrep16010016 - 21 Mar 2024

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2353

Abstract

Inhibitors of the factor FXI represent a new class of anticoagulant agents that are facing clinical approval for the treatment of acute coronary syndrome (ACS), venous thromboembolism (VTE), and stroke prevention of atrial fibrillation (AF). These new inhibitors include chemical small molecules (asundexian [...] Read more.

Inhibitors of the factor FXI represent a new class of anticoagulant agents that are facing clinical approval for the treatment of acute coronary syndrome (ACS), venous thromboembolism (VTE), and stroke prevention of atrial fibrillation (AF). These new inhibitors include chemical small molecules (asundexian and milvexian), monoclonal antibodies (abelacimab, osocimab, and xisomab), and antisense oligonucleotides (IONIS-FXIRX and fesomersen), and thus, they have very peculiar and different pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties. Besides their clinical efficacy and safety, based on their pharmacological heterogeneity, the use of these drugs in patients with comorbidities may undergo drug–drug interactions (DDIs) with other concomitant therapies. Although only little clinical evidence is available, it is possible to predict clinically relevant DDI by taking into consideration their pharmacokinetic properties, such as the CYP450-dependent metabolism, the interaction with drug transporters, and/or the route of elimination. These characteristics may be useful to differentiate their use with the direct oral anticoagulant (DOAC) anti -FXa (rivaroxaban, apixaban, edoxaban) and thrombin (dabigatran), whose pharmacokinetics are strongly dependent from P-gp inhibitors/inducers. In the present review, we summarize the current clinical evidence on DDIs of new anti FXI with CYP450/P-gp inhibitors and inducers and indicate potential differences with DOAC anti FXa. Full article

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11 pages, 592 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Cardiovascular Event Risk Associated with Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors and the Lipid Profile in Patients with Chronic Myeloid Leukemia

by María Nieves Saez Perdomo, Ruth Stuckey, Elena González-Pérez, Santiago Sánchez-Sosa, Paula Estupiñan-Cabrera, Sunil Lakhwani Lakhwani, José David González San Miguel, Nuria Hernanz Soler, Marina Gordillo, Gloria González Brito, María Tapia-Torres, Ana Ruano, Adrián Segura-Díaz, Hugo Luzardo, Cristina Bilbao-Sieyro and María Teresa Gómez-Casares

Hematol. Rep. 2024, 16(1), 140-150; https://doi.org/10.3390/hematolrep16010015 - 12 Mar 2024

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Abstract

Background: Second- and third-generation tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) are now available to treat chronic-phase chronic myeloid leukemia (CP-CML) in the first and second line. However, vascular adverse events (VAEs) have been reported for patients with CML treated with some TKIs. Methods: We retrospectively [...] Read more.

Background: Second- and third-generation tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) are now available to treat chronic-phase chronic myeloid leukemia (CP-CML) in the first and second line. However, vascular adverse events (VAEs) have been reported for patients with CML treated with some TKIs. Methods: We retrospectively evaluated the cumulative incidence (CI) and cardiovascular risk for 210 patients included in the Canarian Registry of CML. Result: With a mean follow up of 6 years, 19/210 (9.1%) patients developed VAEs, all of whom presented at least one cardiovascular risk factor at diagnosis. The mean time to VAE presentation was 54 months from the start of TKI treatment. We found a statistically significant difference between the CI for nilotinib-naïve vs. nilotinib-treated patients (p = 0.005), between dasatinib-naïve and dasatinib-treated patients (p = 0.039), and for patients who received three lines of treatment with first-line imatinib vs. first-line imatinib (p < 0.001). From the multivariable logistic regression analyses, the Framingham risk score (FRS) and patients with three lines of TKI with first-line imatinib were the only variables with statistically significant hazard ratios for VAE development. Significant increases in HDL-C and total cholesterol may also be predictive for VAE. Conclusions: In conclusion, it is important to estimate the cardiovascular risk at the diagnosis of CML as it can help determine whether a patient is likely to develop a VAE during TKI treatment. Full article

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8 pages, 6457 KiB

Open AccessCase Report

Factor VII Deficiency in Systemic Mastocytosis with an Associated Myeloid Neoplasm

by Giorgio Rosati, Sofia Camerlo, Alessandro Fornari, Valerio Marci, Barbara Montaruli and Alessandro Morotti

Hematol. Rep. 2024, 16(1), 132-139; https://doi.org/10.3390/hematolrep16010014 - 12 Mar 2024

Viewed by 1249

Abstract

Factor VII (FVII) deficiency is a rare bleeding disorder that can be classified as congenital or acquired, and the majority of acquired cases are due to vitamin K deficiency or liver disease. Isolated acquired FVII deficiency is a rare occurrence and has been [...] Read more.

Factor VII (FVII) deficiency is a rare bleeding disorder that can be classified as congenital or acquired, and the majority of acquired cases are due to vitamin K deficiency or liver disease. Isolated acquired FVII deficiency is a rare occurrence and has been associated with inhibitors or auto-antibodies. Here, we describe a patient with polycythemia vera who developed systemic mastocytosis and FVII deficiency simultaneously. FVII deficiency was not caused by inhibitors and improved with antineoplastic treatment. Acquired FVII deficiency has been reported in cases of sepsis, possibly due to proteolytic degradation induced by the activation of monocytes or endothelial cells. Malignancies have been shown to cause a depletion in circulating FVII through the direct binding of cancer cells. This case report suggests a potential association between SM associated with a hematological neoplasm (SM-AHN) and acquired FVII deficiency. Further evaluations are recommended in patients with systemic mastocytosis to gain a better understanding of the relationship between pathological mast cells and clotting factor concentrations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Personalized Therapy and Clinical Outcomes for Congenital and Acquired Haemorrhagic Disorders, Thromboembolic Disease and Platelet Disorders)

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7 pages, 1177 KiB

Open AccessCase Report

Uncommon Presentation of Sarcoidosis with Severe Thrombocytopenia and Hemorrhagic Diathesis

by Dorela Lame, Michelangelo Pianelli, Shahram Kordasti, Erika Morsia, Attilio Olivieri and Antonella Poloni

Hematol. Rep. 2024, 16(1), 125-131; https://doi.org/10.3390/hematolrep16010013 - 4 Mar 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1683

Abstract

Sarcoidosis, a multi-organ system disease, often presents insidiously. Thrombocytopenia in sarcoidosis is frequent because of hypersplenism, granulomas infiltrating the bone marrow, or immune thrombocytopenia (ITP). The diagnosis of ITP relies on exclusionary criteria, given the absence of a definitive laboratory diagnostic feature. In [...] Read more.

Sarcoidosis, a multi-organ system disease, often presents insidiously. Thrombocytopenia in sarcoidosis is frequent because of hypersplenism, granulomas infiltrating the bone marrow, or immune thrombocytopenia (ITP). The diagnosis of ITP relies on exclusionary criteria, given the absence of a definitive laboratory diagnostic feature. In the era prior to modern ITP management, sarcoidosis-associated ITP was known to manifest severely, often showing resistance to treatment and an increased risk of mortality. In this case, we present a young male who was admitted to a district hospital’s emergency room, displaying symptoms of hematuria, gingival bleeding, and a petechial rash. Blood tests revealed severe thrombocytopenia with a platelet count of 0, while all other metabolic and serological exams returned normal results. Infectious and autoimmune causes were ruled out, and a bone marrow examination excluded any hematological disorder. Initial management, including platelet transfusion and presumptive treatment for ITP with dexamethasone and Human Immunoglobulin IV (IVIG), failed to improve the patient’s platelet count or alleviate the hemorrhagic diathesis. Second-line therapy with Rituximab and Methylprednisolone was initiated with no benefit. Considering the hemorrhagic signs and the delayed response of Rituximab, we shifted to third-line therapy with Romiplostim at the maximal dose and continued Methylprednisolone. The platelet count recovered completely after the second Romiplostim administration (over 350 × 10⁹ platelets/L) and Methylprednisolone was rapidly tapered. To further study the causes of thrombocytopenia a total body CT scan was performed and it identified non-homogeneously hypodense tissue in the bilateral hilar area extending medially to the subcarinal area, suggesting possible lymphatic origin and raising suspicion of sarcoidosis. Further investigations, including Angiotensin Converting Enzyme (ACE) titration, bronchoscopy, bronchoalveolar lavage, and EndoBronchial UltraSound-guided TransBronchial Needle Aspiration (EBUS-TBNA), confirmed the diagnosis of sarcoidosis. Despite a mild restrictive insufficiency noted in spirometry, the patient remained asymptomatic with only a mild respiratory insufficiency, and hence, was enlisted for follow-up. As for the ITP, the platelet count remained normal over a year. Notably, while sarcoidosis onset often predates ITP onset by an average of 48 months, in our case the onset of the two diseases was simultaneously. Our case adds valuable information to the limited body of knowledge regarding the treatment of sarcoidosis-associated ITP. Full article

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11 pages, 1047 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Impact of Skeletal Muscle Depletion on Patients with Myelodysplastic Syndrome Treated with Azacitidine

by Eri Takada, Nobuhiko Nakamura, Yuto Kaneda, Kenji Fukuno, Shin Lee, Kei Fujita, Tetsuji Morishita, Yoshikazu Ikoma, Takuro Matsumoto, Hiroshi Nakamura, Junichi Kitagawa, Nobuhiro Kanemura, Senji Kasahara, Takeshi Hara, Hisashi Tsurumi and Masahito Shimizu

Hematol. Rep. 2024, 16(1), 114-124; https://doi.org/10.3390/hematolrep16010012 - 28 Feb 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1016

Abstract

Background: Azacitidine (AZA) is the standard treatment for patients with high-risk myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS). The impact of skeletal muscle depletion (SMD), which is associated with outcomes of hematological malignancies, on the clinical course of MDS patients treated with AZA was investigated. Methods: This [...] Read more.

Background: Azacitidine (AZA) is the standard treatment for patients with high-risk myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS). The impact of skeletal muscle depletion (SMD), which is associated with outcomes of hematological malignancies, on the clinical course of MDS patients treated with AZA was investigated. Methods: This retrospective, observational study included 50 MDS patients treated with AZA. Muscle mass was evaluated using the skeletal muscle index (SMI), which is the area of muscle mass at the third lumbar vertebra on CT images divided by the square of the height. Results: Of the enrolled patients, 39 were males, and their median age was 69.5 years. Twenty-seven (20 male and 7 female) patients showed SMD. The median survival was 13.4 months in the SMD group and 15.2 months in the non-SMD group, with no significant difference and no significant association between the response rate or severe non-hematological toxicities and the presence of SMD. By contrast, grade 3–4 anemia and thrombocytopenia were significantly more frequent in the SMD group than in the non-SMD group. SMD was associated with severe anemia and thrombocytopenia in MDS patients treated with AZA. Conclusion: Reduced skeletal muscle mass may predict severe hematological toxicity in MDS patients treated with AZA. Full article

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8 pages, 2192 KiB

Open AccessCase Report

Primary Bone Lymphoma of the Scapula

by Josip Lovaković, Inga Mandac Smoljanović, Andro Matković and Tomislav Smoljanović

Hematol. Rep. 2024, 16(1), 106-113; https://doi.org/10.3390/hematolrep16010011 - 28 Feb 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1451

Abstract

Primary bone lymphoma of the scapula is a rare tumor that usually causes local pain. The presented patient suffered for two years from paresthesia, tingling, numbness, and edema of the little and ring fingers. The 45-year-old man underwent several radiological and neurological assessments [...] Read more.

Primary bone lymphoma of the scapula is a rare tumor that usually causes local pain. The presented patient suffered for two years from paresthesia, tingling, numbness, and edema of the little and ring fingers. The 45-year-old man underwent several radiological and neurological assessments of the palm, elbow, and neck before radiographs revealed a tumor of the left shoulder. Once diffuse large B-cell lymphoma was confirmed, immunochemotherapy with rituximab, cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, and methylprednisolone (R-CHOP) started. The treatment was accompanied by antiviral treatment with lamivudine due to positive hepatitis B virus serology, specifically anti-HBs (hepatitis B surface) antibody, total anti-HBc (hepatitis B core) antibody, and anti-HBe (hepatitis B e antigen) antibody, together with bisphosphonate treatment for the prevention of bone resorption. Once immunochemotherapy was finished, the treatment was supplemented by radiotherapy of the shoulder. After more than three years of remission, the patient had an ischemic stroke manifesting with right-sided hemiparesis. Following physical therapy, the patient is currently in the process of evaluation for thrombophilia, as well as further cardiac assessment due to the positive transcranial Doppler bubble test, setting high suspicion for the presence of patent foramen ovale. Full article

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8 pages, 987 KiB

Open AccessCase Report

Successful Bone Marrow Transplantation in a Patient with Acute Myeloid Leukemia Developed from Severe Congenital Neutropenia Using Modified Chemotherapy and Conditioning Regimen for Leukemia

by Risa Matsumura, Shinji Mochizuki, Yusuke Morishita, Hiroko Hayakawa, Shuhei Karakawa, Hiroshi Kawaguchi, Satoshi Okada, Nobuyuki Hyakuna and Masao Kobayashi

Hematol. Rep. 2024, 16(1), 98-105; https://doi.org/10.3390/hematolrep16010010 - 26 Feb 2024

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Abstract

Severe congenital neutropenia (SCN) is characterized by chronic neutropenia with recurrent infections from early infancy and a predisposition to myelodysplastic syndrome/acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) is the only curative treatment for patients with SCN who develop myelodysplastic syndrome/AML. [...] Read more.

Severe congenital neutropenia (SCN) is characterized by chronic neutropenia with recurrent infections from early infancy and a predisposition to myelodysplastic syndrome/acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) is the only curative treatment for patients with SCN who develop myelodysplastic syndrome/AML. We report an 8-year-old girl with SCN carrying an ELANE mutation that had been refractory to granulocyte colony-stimulating factor. The patient experienced recurrent infections and then developed AML. The counts of leukemic blasts that harbored both CSF3R and RUNX1 mutations spontaneously decreased with antimicrobial therapy, leading to partial remission. After AML recurrence, HSCT was successfully performed using modified chemotherapy and a conditioning regimen. Serial donor lymphocyte infusions against mixed chimerism induced complete donor chimerism over 4 years without any infections or AML relapse. This case suggests the importance of carefully managing neutropenia-related infections, leukemia progression, and HSCT in patients with SCN developing AML. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diagnosis and Management of Acute Leukemia(AML, ALL): Drafting from Molecular Mechanisms to Clinical Practice)

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9 pages, 635 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Prevalence, Outcomes and Impact of Disease-Related Complications in the Survival of Multiple Myeloma Patients

by Wachiralak Tothong, Adisak Tantiworawit, Lalita Norasetthada, Chatree Chai-Adisaksopha, Teerachat Punnachet, Nonthakorn Hantrakun, Pokpong Piriyakhuntorn, Thanawat Rattanathammethee, Sasinee Hantrakool and Ekarat Rattarittamrong

Hematol. Rep. 2024, 16(1), 89-97; https://doi.org/10.3390/hematolrep16010009 - 21 Feb 2024

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Abstract

There are limited data regarding the impact of disease-related complications on the survival of multiple myeloma (MM) patients. The primary objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of disease-related complications, including hypercalcemia, renal insufficiency, anemia, and bone lytic lesions in MM [...] Read more.

There are limited data regarding the impact of disease-related complications on the survival of multiple myeloma (MM) patients. The primary objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of disease-related complications, including hypercalcemia, renal insufficiency, anemia, and bone lytic lesions in MM patients. The secondary objectives were to determine clinical characteristics, treatment outcomes, and the association of disease-related complications and mortality. A retrospective chart review of MM patients from November 2014 to December 2019 was conducted. A total of 200 MM patients were enrolled. The median age at diagnosis was 63 years. The bone lytic lesion was the most common disease-related complication found in 85% during first-line therapy, followed by anemia (71.5%), renal insufficiency (28.5%), and hypercalcemia (20%). While anemia was the most common complication during the second (51.2%) and third-line therapy (72%). The development of skeletal-related events (SREs) after treatment is a disease-related complication that is associated with decreased overall survival (HR 4.030, 95% CI 1.97–8.24, p < 0.001). The most common disease-related complication of MM at initial diagnosis is bone lytic lesions, whereas anemia is more common with subsequent relapses. The presence of SRE after treatment is associated with the increased mortality of MM patients. Full article

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13 pages, 937 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Predictive Model for Occurrence of Febrile Neutropenia after Chemotherapy in Patients with Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma: A Multicenter, Retrospective, Observational Study

by Masaya Morimoto, Yuma Yokoya, Kikuaki Yoshida, Hideki Kosako, Yoshikazu Hori, Toshiki Mushino, Shinobu Tamura, Reiko Ito, Ryosuke Koyamada, Takuya Yamashita, Shinichiro Mori, Nobuyoshi Mori and Sachiko Ohde

Hematol. Rep. 2024, 16(1), 76-88; https://doi.org/10.3390/hematolrep16010008 - 7 Feb 2024

Viewed by 1839

Abstract

Febrile neutropenia (FN) is a major concern in patients undergoing chemotherapy for diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL); however, the overall risk of FN is difficult to assess. This study aimed to develop a model for predicting the occurrence of FN in patients with [...] Read more.

Febrile neutropenia (FN) is a major concern in patients undergoing chemotherapy for diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL); however, the overall risk of FN is difficult to assess. This study aimed to develop a model for predicting the occurrence of FN in patients with DLBCL. In this multicenter, retrospective, observational analysis, a multivariate logistic regression model was used to analyze the association between FN incidence and pretreatment clinical factors. We included adult inpatients and outpatients (aged ≥ 18 years) diagnosed with DLBCL who were treated with chemotherapy. The study examined 246 patients. Considering FN occurring during the first cycle of chemotherapy as the primary outcome, a predictive model with a total score of 5 points was constructed as follows: 1 point each for a positive hepatitis panel, extranodal involvement, and a high level of soluble interleukin-2 receptor and 2 points for lymphopenia. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of this model was 0.844 (95% confidence interval: 0.777–0.911). Our predictive model can assess the risk of FN before patients with DLBCL start chemotherapy, leading to better outcomes. Full article

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13 pages, 6531 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Gut Microbiome Correlated to Chemotherapy Efficacy in Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma Patients

by Zhuo-Fan Xu, Li Yuan, Yan Zhang, Wei Zhang, Chong Wei, Wei Wang, Danqing Zhao, Daobin Zhou and Jingnan Li

Hematol. Rep. 2024, 16(1), 63-75; https://doi.org/10.3390/hematolrep16010007 - 22 Jan 2024

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1491

Abstract

The gut microbiome (GMB) has been extensively reported to be associated with the development and prognosis of human diseases. This study aims to investigate the relationship between GMB composition and chemotherapy efficacy in diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL). We demonstrated that DLBCL patients [...] Read more.

The gut microbiome (GMB) has been extensively reported to be associated with the development and prognosis of human diseases. This study aims to investigate the relationship between GMB composition and chemotherapy efficacy in diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL). We demonstrated that DLBCL patients at diagnosis have altered GMB compositions. Significant enrichment of the Proteobacteria phylum in DLBCL patients was observed. Gene analysis showed a high abundance of virulence factors genes. We found baseline GMB to be associated with clinical outcomes. The emergence of Lactobacillus fermentum was correlated with better treatment outcome. Our pilot results suggested a correlation between GMB composition and DLBCL development and prognosis. Clues from our study, together with previous research, provided a rational foundation for further investigation on the pathogenesis, prognosis value, and targeted therapy of GMB in DLBCL. Full article

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13 pages, 1758 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Survival Outcomes of Patients with Mantle Cell Lymphoma: A Retrospective, 15-Year, Real-Life Study

by Emanuele Cencini, Natale Calomino, Marta Franceschini, Andreea Dragomir, Sara Fredducci, Beatrice Esposito Vangone, Giulia Lucco Navei, Alberto Fabbri and Monica Bocchia

Hematol. Rep. 2024, 16(1), 50-62; https://doi.org/10.3390/hematolrep16010006 - 18 Jan 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2135

Abstract

Mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) prognosis has significantly improved in recent years; however, the possible survival benefit of new treatment options should be evaluated outside of clinical trials. We investigated 73 consecutive MCL patients managed from 2006 to 2020. For younger patients <65 years [...] Read more.

Mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) prognosis has significantly improved in recent years; however, the possible survival benefit of new treatment options should be evaluated outside of clinical trials. We investigated 73 consecutive MCL patients managed from 2006 to 2020. For younger patients <65 years old, the median PFS was 72 months and we reported a 2-year, 5-year, and 10-year PFS of 73%, 62%, and 41%; median OS was not reached and we reported a 2-year, 5-year, and 10-year OS of 88%, 82%, and 66%. For patients aged 75 years or older, the median PFS was 36 months and we reported a 2-year, 5-year, and 10-year PFS of 52%, 37%, and 37%; median OS was not reached and we reported a 2-year, 5-year, and 10-year OS of 72%, 55%, and 55%. The median PFS was significantly reduced for patients treated between 2006 and 2010 compared to patients treated between 2011 and 2015 (p = 0.04). Interestingly, there was a trend towards improved OS for patients treated between 2016 and 2020 compared to between 2006 and 2010 and between 2011 and 2015 (5-year OS was 91%, 44%, and 33%). These findings could be due to the introduction of BR as a first-line regimen for elderly patients and to the introduction of ibrutinib as a second-line regimen. Full article

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8 pages, 998 KiB

Open AccessCase Report

Manifestation of Pancytopenia Associated with COVID-19 as Paroxysmal Nocturnal Hemoglobinuria (PNH) and Aplastic Anemia (AA)

by Jeff Justin Aguilar, Vikram Dhillon and Suresh Balasubramanian

Hematol. Rep. 2024, 16(1), 42-49; https://doi.org/10.3390/hematolrep16010005 - 17 Jan 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2289

Abstract

We report two cases of pancytopenia in patients after recovering from a mild COVID-19, now presenting as paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH) and aplastic anemia. These cases illustrate a common pathway whereby a viral trigger causes the clonal expansion of a hematological disorder. Although [...] Read more.

We report two cases of pancytopenia in patients after recovering from a mild COVID-19, now presenting as paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH) and aplastic anemia. These cases illustrate a common pathway whereby a viral trigger causes the clonal expansion of a hematological disorder. Although the association of both cases with COVID-19 is temporal and COVID-19 may be an incidental diagnosis, the growing evidence related to the hematological effects of SARS-CoV-2 infection highlights the need for further investigation into the hematological consequences of COVID-19, particularly in the post-pandemic era. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Personalized Therapy and Clinical Outcomes for Congenital and Acquired Haemorrhagic Disorders, Thromboembolic Disease and Platelet Disorders)

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10 pages, 256 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Emerging Role of [¹⁸F]FLT PET/CT in Lymphoid Malignancies: A Review of Clinical Results

by Anna Giulia Nappi, Giulia Santo, Lorenzo Jonghi-Lavarini, Alberto Miceli, Achille Lazzarato, Flavia La Torre, Francesco Dondi and Joana Gorica

Hematol. Rep. 2024, 16(1), 32-41; https://doi.org/10.3390/hematolrep16010004 - 11 Jan 2024

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1510

Abstract

Fluorine-18 fluorodeoxyglucose ([¹⁸F]FDG) is nowadays the leading positron emission tomography (PET) tracer for routine clinical work-ups in hematological malignancies; however, it is limited by false positive findings. Notably, false positives can occur in inflammatory and infective cases or in necrotic tumors [...] Read more.

Fluorine-18 fluorodeoxyglucose ([¹⁸F]FDG) is nowadays the leading positron emission tomography (PET) tracer for routine clinical work-ups in hematological malignancies; however, it is limited by false positive findings. Notably, false positives can occur in inflammatory and infective cases or in necrotic tumors that are infiltrated by macrophages and other inflammatory cells. In this context, 3′-deoxy-3′-[¹⁸F]fluorothymidine ([¹⁸F]FLT) has been shown to be a promising imaging biomarker of hematological malignant cell proliferation. In this review, a total of 15 papers were reviewed to collect literature data regarding the clinical application of [¹⁸F]FLT PET/CT in hematological malignancies. This imaging modality seems to be a suitable tool for noninvasive assessment of tumor grading, also showing a correlation with Ki-67 immunostaining. Moreover, [¹⁸F]FLT PET/CT demonstrated high sensitivity in detecting aggressive lymphoma lesions, especially when applying a standardized uptake value (SUV) cutoff of 3. At baseline, the potential of [¹⁸F]FLT imaging as a predictive tool is demonstrated by the low tracer uptake in patients with a complete response. However, its use is limited in evaluating bone diseases due to its high physiological uptake in bone marrow. Interim [¹⁸F]FLT PET/CT (iFLT) has the potential to identify high-risk patients with greater precision than [¹⁸F]FDG PET/CT, optimizing risk-adapted therapy strategies. Moreover, [¹⁸F]FLT uptake showed a greater ability to differentiate tumor from inflammation compared to [¹⁸F]FDG, allowing the reduction of false-positive findings and making the first one a more selective tracer. Finally, FLT emerges as a superior independent predictor of PFS and OS compared to FDG and ensures a reliable early response assessment with greater accuracy and predictive value. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Comparison between 18F-FDG and Alternative Tracers for the Assessment of Hematological Ma-Lignancies)

10 pages, 4859 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceCase Report

Plasmacytoma in the Maxillary Jaw: A Diagnostic and Therapeutic Challenge

by Sara Bernardi, Serena Bianchi, Ettore Lupi, Davide Gerardi, Guido Macchiarelli and Giuseppe Varvara

Hematol. Rep. 2024, 16(1), 22-31; https://doi.org/10.3390/hematolrep16010003 - 4 Jan 2024

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1412

Abstract

Plasmacytoma is a neoplastic disorder originating from plasma cells, with bone and soft tissue being common sites of manifestation. This report presents the clinical and radiological findings of a 65-year-old female patient who presented with an exophytic lesion in the upper right lateral [...] Read more.

Plasmacytoma is a neoplastic disorder originating from plasma cells, with bone and soft tissue being common sites of manifestation. This report presents the clinical and radiological findings of a 65-year-old female patient who presented with an exophytic lesion in the upper right lateral incisor region. The lesion appeared as a unilocular radiotransparent area in imaging tests. Following an excisional biopsy, histological and immunohistochemical evaluations confirmed the presence of mature plasmacellular elements and small infiltrates of B and T lymphocytes. The patient did not exhibit systemic manifestations of multiple myeloma. Surgical intervention, in the form of enucleation of the lesion combined with root canal treatment and apicoectomy, was performed. This case underscores the rare occurrence of plasmacytoma in the jaw region and highlights the importance of surgical management in cases where structural damage or functional impairment is present. Further research on novel treatment approaches is also mentioned, including targeted therapies, immunomodulatory agents, and monoclonal antibodies. The patient is currently under the care of a hematologist for further investigation and the choice of the most appropriate therapy. Full article

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11 pages, 2132 KiB

Open AccessCase Report

Cutaneous T-Cell Lymphoma (CTCL) Arising Post Kidney Transplant: A Review of Clinical Variants in the Literature

by Jordan Pilkington, Sara Shalin and Henry K. Wong

Hematol. Rep. 2024, 16(1), 11-21; https://doi.org/10.3390/hematolrep16010002 - 28 Dec 2023

Viewed by 1262

Abstract

Post-transplant lymphoproliferative disease is a rare disorder with an annual incidence of 0.5% to 3.7%. Development of this disorder carries with it a poor prognosis. In this report, we describe a rare case of post-transplant primary cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (PT-CTCL) mycosis fungoides stage [...] Read more.

Post-transplant lymphoproliferative disease is a rare disorder with an annual incidence of 0.5% to 3.7%. Development of this disorder carries with it a poor prognosis. In this report, we describe a rare case of post-transplant primary cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (PT-CTCL) mycosis fungoides stage IIB in a patient following kidney transplantation, as well as a review of PT-CTCL reported in the literature. The treatment following diagnosis included bexarotene, cyclosporine, and prednisone. Currently, the patient is free from disease. This information aims to add to the knowledge of the prevalence and management of PT-CTCL. Full article

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10 pages, 840 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Feasibility of Quality of Life Assessment in Patients with Lymphoma Aged ≥80 Years Receiving Reduced-Intensity Chemotherapy: A Single-Institute Study

by Satoshi Yamasaki

Hematol. Rep. 2024, 16(1), 1-10; https://doi.org/10.3390/hematolrep16010001 - 22 Dec 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1220

Abstract

Quality of life (QOL) must be carefully monitored in older patients with lymphoma who are suitable for chemotherapy, but few reports have assessed QOL in older patients who received reduced-intensity chemotherapy. This study investigated QOL in patients with lymphoma aged ≥80 years to [...] Read more.

Quality of life (QOL) must be carefully monitored in older patients with lymphoma who are suitable for chemotherapy, but few reports have assessed QOL in older patients who received reduced-intensity chemotherapy. This study investigated QOL in patients with lymphoma aged ≥80 years to clarify the feasibility of such assessments following reduced-intensity chemotherapy. QOL was prospectively analyzed (using the QOL Questionnaire for Cancer Patients Treated with Anticancer Drugs (QOL-ACD)] and the SF-36^®, a comprehensive survey of patient health) among 13 patients (seven women) aged ≥80 years with lymphoma who received reduced-intensity chemotherapy at 4-week intervals at Kyushu University Beppu Hospital between June 2022 and August 2023. Patients were assessed at baseline, in the middle of the protocol, at the end of the protocol, and 6 months after the end of the protocol. The overall response rate was 69%. Almost all severe adverse events (10 patients) occurred during early cycles (cycles 1–2). Common adverse events included hematological toxicities such as neutropenia (10 patients). The daily activity (p = 0.048) and social attitude (p = 0.027) scores of the QOL-ACD and the general health perception (p = 0.044) and social functioning (p = 0.030) scores of the SF-36^® were significantly improved during and after chemotherapy. Reduced-dose chemotherapy, if implemented before treatment selection, might permit evaluations of QOL in older patients aged ≥80 years; further investigation is warranted. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Personalized Therapies and Clinical Outcomes for Older Patients with Lymphoma)

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Hematol. Rep., Volume 16, Issue 1 (March 2024) – 17 articles

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