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Objectives: We aimed to characterise baseline disease and treatment burden in a large population with haemophilia A/B, both with (HAwI/HBwI) and without (HA/HB) inhibitors. Methods: The prospective, non‐interventional explorer6 study included patients ≥12 years old with severe HA, severe/moderate HB or HAwI/HBwI of any severity, treated according to local standard of care (excluding previous/current exposure to concizumab or emicizumab). Baseline characteristics and historical clinical data were collected and patient‐reported outcomes, including treatment burden, were assessed. Results: The explorer6 study enrolled 231 patients with haemophilia (84 HAwI/HBwI) from 33 countries. At baseline, patients with HA/HB treated with prophylaxis had the lowest median annualised bleeding rates (ABRs; 2.0), irrespective of haemophilia type; of these patients, 27.5% (HA) and 31.4% (HB) had target joints. Patients with HAwI/HBwI treated episodically reported the highest treatment burden. Of these patients, 28.5% (HAwI) and 25.1% (HBwI) performed sports activities in the month before screening. Conclusion: Despite receiving routine clinical care, historical and baseline information from patients enrolled in explorer6 showed that patients with HA/HB treated episodically and patients with HAwI/HBwI had higher ABRs, higher treatment burden and participated in sports less than those with HA/HB treated with prophylaxis. Emerging treatments could be beneficial in addressing these unmet medical needs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Background Aim Method Results Conclusion New treatments for patients with bleeding disorders (PWB) have emerged, including products with extended half‐life and subcutaneous administration. These less frequent treatments can potentially enhance quality of life (QoL), but adherence becomes critically important.To investigate adherence and QoL among PWB and explore the correlation between treatment adherence and QoL in adult patients with haemophilia A (HA), haemophilia B (HB) and Von Willebrand disease (vWD) in Denmark.This survey used disease‐specific patient‐reported questionnaires: Veritas‐PRO and Veritas‐PRN to measure adherence, and Haemo‐A‐QoL and VWD‐QoL to assess QoL.Responses were obtained from 149 patients with HA, 32 with HB and 118 with vWD. Adherence was reported by 87.1% of patients on prophylaxis and 71.2% of patients treated on demand, according to Veritas‐PRO and Veritas‐PRN cut‐off scores. High QoL was generally reported, decreasing with age in HA and HB, but not in vWD.Danish patients with HA, HB and vWD reported high QoL and high adherence to prescribed treatments. There was no correlation between treatment adherence and QoL among the different patient groups. These findings highlight the need for further research to better understand adherence behaviours and identify opportunities to further improve QoL in PWB. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Methods Results Conclusions Highlights In Thailand, an upper‐middle‐income country, managing haemophilia A (HA) with inhibitors poses significant challenges, often necessitating bypassing agents (BPAs) for bleeding control. This study evaluates the cost‐effectiveness and budget impact of emicizumab, a novel prophylactic agent, as an alternative to both episodic and prophylactic BPA treatments from a societal perspective.A Markov model was employed to estimate the lifetime societal costs and outcomes of emicizumab prophylaxis for HA patients with inhibitors. Treatment efficacy, cost, and epidemiological data were obtained through a comprehensive literature review and incorporated into the model. A 5‐year budget impact analysis complemented the cost‐utility analysis, with a 3% annual discount rate applied to future costs and outcomes.In the base‐case scenario, emicizumab prophylaxis in HA patients aged 2 years and above demonstrated superior cost‐effectiveness, yielding 18.1 quality‐adjusted life years (QALYs) per patient over a lifetime and resulting in cost savings of 138 million Thai Baht (THB) compared to BPA prophylaxis. Compared to episodic BPA treatment, emicizumab yielded 30.5 QALYs and saved 25 million THB per patient. The 5‐year budget impact was projected at 1775 million THB.Emicizumab offers a cost‐saving approach for HA treatment with inhibitors in Thailand, promising significant health benefits and budgetary savings. This supports its potential inclusion in Thailand's National List of Essential Medicines to enhance haemophilia care access. Managing haemophilia A (HA) with inhibitors in Thailand, an upper‐middle‐income country, faces challenges due to limited access to effective treatments or newer drugs for bleeding management. Emicizumab prophylaxis found to as a cost‐effective and viable alternative to traditional treatments, effectively preventing bleeding in Thai HA patients over 2 years old with inhibitors. Demonstrating improved clinical outcomes and reduced costs, emicizumab prophylaxis outperforms episodic BPA treatments, positioning it as a superior treatment option for HA patients with inhibitors in Thailand. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Haemophilia A (HA) is a congenital bleeding disorder caused by a deficiency/absence of factor VIII (FVIII) and characterised by frequent, acute and prolonged spontaneous or traumatic bleeding events, often leading to haemophilic arthropathy and progressive joint deterioration. HA severity is characterized by endogenous FVIII activity: mild (> 5–40%), moderate (1–5%), or severe (< 1%). HA poses a substantial clinical and socioeconomic burden on people with HA (PWHA), their caregivers, and society. This analysis evaluates clinical and patient-centric outcomes of a cohort of individuals with non-inhibitor HA sampled from France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and the UK in the 'Cost of Haemophilia in Europe: A Socioeconomic Survey II' (CHESS II) study. Methods: CHESS II was a cross-sectional burden-of-illness study collecting clinical and socioeconomic data on adult (≥ 18 years) individuals with haemophilia A or B of any severity with or without inhibitors from eight European countries. Descriptive analyses were conducted examining physician-reported demographics, clinical and health resource utilisation information. PWHA-reported health-related quality of life (HRQoL) using the EQ-5D-5L and Work Productivity and Activity Impairment (WPAI) were also examined. Outcomes were stratified by HA severity and reported at country level. Results: Demographics and clinical characteristics of the cohort (N = 880) were generally consistent across countries. Individuals with severe HA experienced more frequent bleeding events and joint disease despite broad use of factor replacement therapy long-term prophylaxis. A minority of those with mild or moderate HA also experienced such challenges. HRQoL and workforce participation diminished, and chronic pain increased, with increasing HA severity. Conclusion: This analysis provides up-to-date insights on the impact of HA across five European countries. Increasing HA severity was generally associated with worse clinical outcomes, HRQoL and workforce participation. These findings suggest a place for continued evidence-based tailored treatment and clinical management approaches in addressing the residual burden of HA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction Aim Methods Results Conclusions The management of bleeding events (BEs) in haemophilia A (HA) and B (HB) patients with inhibitors necessitates the use of bypassing agents. The recombinant factor VIIa bypassing agent eptacog beta has demonstrated efficacy at treating BEs and managing perioperative bleeding in adults in phase three clinical studies.To provide real‐world descriptions of eptacog beta use for BE treatment in patients on emicizumab or eptacog beta prophylaxis.This is a retrospective case series of 14 patients who received eptacog beta at seven haemophilia treatment centres, with HA (n = 11) or HB (n = 3) and inhibitors or anaphylaxis to factor replacement.Twenty‐four spontaneous and traumatic BEs are described (muscle hematomas, joint hemarthroses, port site, and epistaxis) involving 11 subjects. Eptacog beta was effective for acute bleed treatment as both first‐line therapy and for treatment of BEs refractory to eptacog alfa in 23/24 events. When eptacog beta was used for prophylaxis, 2/3 patients reported a decreased frequency of breakthrough BEs compared with prophylactic eptacog alfa and one patient experienced a similar frequency of breakthrough BEs compared with prophylactic activated prothrombin complex concentrate. Eptacog beta provided effective bleed control for three subjects who underwent minor surgical procedures. Treatment with eptacog beta was estimated to be 46%–72% more cost‐effective than eptacog alfa. No safety concerns or adverse events were reported.In this case series, eptacog beta was safe, effective, and economical as first‐line therapy, treatment of refractory BEs, management of perioperative bleeding, or prophylaxis in haemophilia patients with inhibitors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Treatment options for people with haemophilia are evolving at a rapid pace and a range of prophylactic treatment options using various technologies are currently available, each with their own distinct safety and efficacy profile. Treatment goals: The access to replacement therapy and prophylaxis has driven a dramatic reduction in mortality and resultant increase in life expectancy. Beyond this, the abolition of bleeds and preservation of joint health represent the expected, but rarely attained, goals of haemophilia treatment and care. These outcomes also do not address the complexity of health‐related quality of life impacted by haemophilia and its treatment. Conclusion: Capitalizing on the major potential of therapeutic innovations, 'Normalization' of haemostasis, as a concept, should include the aspiration of enabling individuals to live as normal a life as possible, free from haemophilia‐imposed limitations. To achieve this—being supported by the data reviewed in this manuscript—the concept of haemostatic and life Normalization needs to be explored and debated within the wider multidisciplinary teams and haemophilia community. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Haemophilia is associated with reduced bone mass and mineral density. Due to the rarity of the disease and the heterogeneity among the studies, the pathogenesis of bone loss is still under investigation. We studied the effects of coagulation factors on bone cells and characterized in a pilot study the osteoclastogenic potential of patients’ osteoclast precursors. To evaluate the effect of coagulation factors on osteoclasts, we treated Healthy Donor-Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells (HD-PBMC) with Factor VIII (FVIII), von Willebrand Factor (VWF), FVIII/VWF complex, activated Factor IX (FIXa), activated Factor X (FXa) and Thrombin (THB). FVIII, VWF, FVIII/VWF, FXa and THB treatments reduced osteoclast differentiation of HD-PBMC and VWF affected also bone resorption. Interestingly, PBMC isolated from patients with moderate/severe haemophilia showed an increased osteoclastogenic potential due to the alteration of osteoclast precursors. Moreover, increased expression of genes involved in osteoclast differentiation/activity was revealed in osteoclasts of an adult patient with moderate haemophilia. Control osteoblasts treated with the coagulation factors showed that FVIII and VWF reduced ALP positivity; the opposite effect was observed following THB treatment. Moreover, FVIII, VWF and FVIII/VWF reduced mineralization ability. These results could be important to understand how coagulation factors deficiency influences bone remodeling activity in haemophilia.

Coagulation factor replacement therapy for the X-linked bleeding disorder Haemophilia, characterized by a deficiency of coagulation protein factor VIII (FVIII), is severely complicated by antibody (inhibitors) formation. The development of FVIII inhibitors drastically alters the quality of life of the patients and is associated with a tremendous increase in morbidity as well as treatment costs. The ultimate goal of inhibitor control is antibody elimination. Immune tolerance induction (ITI) is the only clinically established approach for developing antigen-specific tolerance to FVIII. This work aims to establish a novel cost-effective strategy to produce FVIII molecules in fusion with cholera toxin B (CTB) subunit at the N terminus using the Bacillus subtilis expression system for oral tolerance, as the current clinical immune tolerance protocols are expensive. Regions of B-Domain Deleted (BDD)-FVIII that have potential epitopes were identified by employing Bepipred linear epitope prediction; 2 or more epitopes in each domain were combined and cDNA encoding these regions were fused with CTB and cloned in the Bacillus subtilis expression vector pHT43 and expression analysis was carried out. The expressed CTB-fused FVIII epitope domains showed strong binding affinity towards the CTB-receptor GM1 ganglioside. To conclude, Bacillus subtilis expressing FVIII molecules might be a promising candidate for exploring for the induction of oral immune tolerance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Haemophilia A (HA; Factor VIII deficiency) is a congenital X-linked bleeding disorder characterized by trauma-related or spontaneous bleeding events, most notably arising within the intraarticular space and resulting in chronic inflammation and degeneration of affected joints. Endogenous clotting factor activity relative to normal levels determines the severity of HA symptoms, as mild (> 5–40%), moderate (1–5%), or severe (

Background: Haemophilia A (HA; Factor VIII deficiency) is a congenital X-linked bleeding disorder characterized by trauma-related or spontaneous bleeding events, most notably arising within the intraarticular space and resulting in chronic inflammation and degeneration of affected joints. Endogenous clotting factor activity relative to normal levels determines the severity of HA symptoms, as mild (> 5–40%), moderate (1–5%), or severe (< 1%). Within the current environment of rapid evolution in HA management, we seek to understand the interplay of condition severity and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) to characterise and differentiate unmet needs among people with HA (PwHA). Methods: A generalised linear regression model (GLM) was developed to explore the relationship between HA severity and EQ-5D-5 L index score from adult HA patients sampled in the "Cost of Haemophilia across Europe – a Socioeconomic Survey II" (CHESS II) cross-sectional, retrospective burden of illness study among adults with hereditary haemophilia A or B from eight European countries. HA patients of any severity with no active inhibitors during the 12 months prior to data capture and a completeEQ-5D-5 L response were included. A base GLM model was specified with covariates for demographic and clinical characteristics (age, body mass index, country, employment, HA severity, annual bleeding rate, problem joints, and chronic pain). Results: Of 381 evaluable patients, 221 (58.0%) had severe HA, 96 (25.2%) had moderate HA, and 64 (16.8%) had mild HA. Among the covariates included in the GLM model and after controlling for haemophilia-related outcomes, a significant association was observed between mild HA and higher EQ-5D-5 L index score (average marginal effects, 0.084; p = 0.016) relative to severe HA. Patient country of residence and magnitude of HA-related chronic pain were also associated with significant differences in index scores, with the latter showing a negative relationship with HRQoL outcomes. Conclusions: Condition severity and chronic pain are significant predictors of HRQoL in PwHA. Durable bleeding protection and effective management of chronic pain have the potential to address unmet treatment needs in this population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Reduced doses of emicizumab improve the affordability among patients in developing countries. However, the relationship between variant dose selection and efficacy in the real world of China is still unclear. Aim: This study aimed to investigate the efficacy and safety of emicizumab especially in those on reduced dose regimens in a real‐world setting. Methods: We carried out a multicentre study from 28 hospitals between June 2019 and June 2023 in China and retrospectively analysed the characteristics including demographics, diagnosis, treatment, bleeding episodes, and surgical procedures. Results: In total, 127 patients with haemophilia A, including 42 with inhibitors, were followed for a median duration of 16.0 (IQR: 9.0–30.0) months. Median age at emicizumab initiation was 2.0 (IQR: 1.0–4.0) years. Median (IQR) consumption for loading and maintenance was 12.0 (8.0–12.0) and 4.2 (3.0–6.0) mg/kg/4 weeks, respectively. While on emicizumab, 67 (52.8%) patients had no bleeds, whereas 60 (47.2%) patients had any bleeds, including 26 with treated bleeds. Compared to previous treatments, patients on emicizumab had significantly decreased annualized bleeding rate, annualized joint bleeding rate, target joints and intracerebral haemorrhage. Different dosages had similar efficacy except the proportion of patients with treated spontaneous bleeds and target joints. Adverse events were reported in 12 (9.4%) patients. Postoperative excessive bleeding occurred following two of nine procedures. Conclusion: This is the largest study describing patients with HA receiving emicizumab prophylaxis on variant dose regimens in China. We confirmed that nonstandard dose is efficacious and can be considered where full‐dose emicizumab is ill affordable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To evaluate the impact of haemophilia A without inhibitors on humanistic outcomes in patients and caregivers. Herein, we report a cross‐sectional analysis of the baseline data of persons with haemophilia (PWH) participating in the prospective study HEMOLIFE. Methods: These data are part of a prospective, observational, and multicentre study currently being conducted in 20 hospitals in Spain by haematologists. We included subjects 12 years or older diagnosed with haemophilia. The evaluations included the Maladjustment Scale, Haemophilia–Specific Quality of Life Questionnaire for Adults (HaemoQol)/HaemoQol Short Form (Children), haemophilia‐specific version of the Work Productivity and Impairment Questionnaire plus the Classroom Impairment Questionnaire (WPAI+CIQ:HS), Haemophilia Activity List (HAL)/Paediatric Haemophilia Activities List (pedHAL), visual analogue scale (VAS) for evaluating pain, Coping Pain Questionnaire–Reduced (CAD‐R), and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). Results: A total of 81 PWH were recruited at 18 centres; 66 PWH were ≥18 years (i.e., adults), and PWH 15 were <18 years (i.e., paediatric patients). Out of the 79 evaluable subjects, 16 (20%) showed an impact of haemophilia on daily life, and the areas most affected were "leisure time" (58% showed maladjustment) and "work/studies" (47% showed maladjustment). Patients reported a higher impact of haemophilia on quality of life (mean [SD] of the transformed score) in the dimensions of "sport" (49.4 [28.6]), "physical health" (40.5 [25.8]) and "future" (37.7 [28.9]). In adults, according to HAL scores, greater impairment of function was observed in "lying/sitting/kneeling/standing," "function of legs" and "leisure activities and sports," with mean normalized scores of 64.7, 65.1 and 69.0, respectively. Productivity was mostly impacted by presenteeism. The pain was infrequent and moderate. According to the HADS scores, nine (11.5%) patients had clinical anxiety and depression. Conclusion: PWH without inhibitors exhibited impairments in adjustment, quality of life and functionality, especially related to leisure and sports activities, and exhibit relevant levels of anxiety and depression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Valoctocogene roxaparvovec, a gene therapy evaluated in the phase 3 GENEr8‐1 trial, supports endogenous factor VIII (FVIII) production to prevent bleeding in people with severe haemophilia A. Individuals receiving emicizumab, an antibody mimicking the function of activated FVIII, were excluded from GENEr8‐1 enrolment since emicizumab was an investigational therapy at the time of trial initiation. Aim: Utilize pharmacokinetic simulations to provide guidance on best practices for maintaining haemostatic control while transitioning from emicizumab prophylaxis to valoctocogene roxaparvovec. Methods: To estimate bleeding risk at weekly intervals following valoctocogene roxaparvovec infusion, a published emicizumab pharmacokinetic model was used to simulate emicizumab concentrations and merged with FVIII activity time‐course data for participants in GENEr8‐1. The analysis investigated three approved emicizumab dosing regimens for two transition scenarios that varied whether the last dose of emicizumab was administered on the same day or 4 weeks after valoctocogene roxaparvovec infusion. Results: Simulations demonstrated administering the last emicizumab dose the day of valoctocogene roxaparvovec infusion and 4 weeks after offered similar levels of haemostatic control, and bleeding risk was similar for all emicizumab dosing regimens. An algorithm was developed to provide guidance for discontinuation of emicizumab. Theoretical cases based on GENEr8‐1 participants are presented to illustrate how decisions may vary among individuals. Conclusion: Pharmacokinetic simulations demonstrated no clinically meaningful difference in bleeding risk caused by decaying emicizumab levels and rising gene therapy‐derived endogenous FVIII for all examined emicizumab doses and dosing regimens. Therefore, multiple approaches can safely transition individuals from emicizumab prophylaxis to valoctocogene roxaparvovec. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The burden of severe haemophilia A (HA) has been studied extensively owing to the higher bleeding frequency and associated treatment requirements, leaving a clear unmet need for research focused on the burden of mild and moderate HA.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the association between coping strategies, meaning in life, and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) among young adults with haemophilia. METHODS: This cross-sectional study was conducted from February 2023 to August 2023 at the Haemophilia Welfare Centre in Lahore, Pakistan. A purposive sampling technique was used to select the sample size of 80 young adults with haemophilia with an age range of 18 to 40 years. Three scales, along with demographic performa were used for data collection. The data was collected by using the World Health Organization Quality of Life Brief Version Scale 16, Coping Scale 14, and Meaning in Life Questionnaire 15, along with demographic performa. RESULTS: The reliability of all study scales was satisfactory. Study comprised of 40 males and 40 female participants, ranging in age from 18 to 30 years. Most study participants were educated and diagnosed with type A haemophilia. Thirty-five percent of the participants were suffering from moderate levels of haemophilia. Results of the study revealed a significant positive relationship between HRQoL, coping strategies (r =.235*, P

ABSTRACTObjectives To assess the safety and effectiveness of turoctocog alfa in previously treated patients (PTPs) and previously untreated patients (PUPs) with haemophilia A in a real-world setting in Japan.Methods This multicentre, non-interventional, post-marketing study recruited patients with haemophilia A who initiated treatment with turoctocog alfa from 18 sites (08/2014-12/2018). The primary endpoint was adverse events (AEs) during the 2-year study period.Results The safety and effectiveness analysis set included 39 patients. In total, 13 (33.3%) patients reported ≥1 AE; incidence rate was 60.4 events/100 patient-years of exposure (PYE). Treatment was withdrawn in two cases: pruritus in a PTP and factor VIII inhibitor development in a PUP. Inhibitor development occurred in 2.6% of all patients, with an incidence rate of 3.8 events/100 PYE. The rate of inhibitor development was 0%, 25% and 20% in PTPs, PUPs and PUPs with severe type, respectively. The haemostatic success rate was 91.4% for 383 bleeding episodes and 85.7% for 14 surgeries. The negative binomial annualised bleeding rate for the prophylaxis regimen was 6.19 episodes/year (95% CI, 3.69–10.38). The mean (SD) total consumption of turoctocog alfa (n = 34; excluding FVIII inhibitors) was 5,382.6 (7,180.1) IU/kg/year/patient; consumption was 4,133.1 (1,452.4) IU/kg/year/patient for prophylaxis.Discussion The effectiveness and safety profiles were comparable to those observed in other turoctocog alfa trials; effectiveness analysis and consumption were not affected by treatment regimens.Conclusion Long-term use of turoctocog alfa therapy in clinical practice posed no newly identified safety issues and was effective for prophylaxis and treatment of bleeds in patients with haemophilia A in Japan.

Introduction: The safety and efficacy of the extended half‐life factor VIII (FVIII) product damoctocog alfa pegol (BAY 94‐9027, Jivi®) has been demonstrated in the PROTECT VIII Kids study (NCT01775618), where male previously‐treated patients (PTPs) aged <12 years old with severe haemophilia A and ≥ 50 exposure days (EDs) were treated prophylactically. The PROTECT VIII Kids extension study assessed the long‐term safety and efficacy of damoctocog alfa pegol in the same population. Aim: To evaluate the long‐term impact of damoctocog alfa pegol in a post hoc subgroup analysis of adolescent patients in the PROTECT VIII Kids study and its extension from 12th birthday onwards. Methods: The current analysis included PTPs aged ≥12 years old, who remained in the extension for ≥6 months following their 12th birthday. The observation period was defined as the time from 12th birthday to the end of the extension period; all data from this birthday were included whether in the main study or extension phase. The main efficacy variable was annualised bleeding rate (ABR) and the main safety variable was the frequency of inhibitor development. Results: This subgroup analysis comprised 25 patients. Median observation time after 12th birthday was 3.2 years. Median total/joint/spontaneous ABRs in the observation period were 1.7/0.7/0.3, respectively. Safety findings were consistent with those reported for the overall study population; no confirmed FVIII inhibitors or anti‐drug antibodies were reported. Conclusions: Damoctocog alfa pegol is efficacious with a favourable safety profile in adolescents with haemophilia A, supporting its long‐term use in children and adolescents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Tailored prophylaxis is the current treatment regimen for patients with severe haemophilia A. Recently, published guidelines describe two possible approaches, based on clinical characteristics or estimation of pharmacokinetic parameters. However, both have strengths and weaknesses, and their characteristics need to be integrated to optimize treatment appropriately. In this paper, we present a model that considers together the characteristics of prophylaxis and the relevance of each. Methods: The age at initiation of prophylaxis, number of bleeding events, treatment regimen, therapeutic adherence, FVIII trough levels, and joint status were analyzed in 59 patients followed at La Paz University Hospital between January 2000 and December 2019. Results: The mean duration of primary prophylaxis of 113.37 ± 57.79 months. Eighty‐three percent (n = 49) had no joint status involvement at the end of follow‐up (HJHS and HEAD‐US = 0). The median ABR was 0.7 (IQR 0.2 –1.0) and 54.2% presented trough levels of FVIII during follow‐up >1 IU/dL. 72,9% engaged in some type of physical activity and overall adherence was over 85% in all patients evaluated. The regression analysis performed, considering all these factors, showed that the initiation of prophylaxis before 21 months of age was the most relevant protective factor against the appearance of joint involvement (OR 88.33 p.031 CI 95% 1.49‐5224.40) Conclusion: Early initiation of prophylaxis was the most relevant factor in the protection of joint status. More comprehensive analysis models adapted to the characteristics of each population, are needed to adequately individualize treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Despite the rapid uptake of emicizumab in the paediatric haemophilia A (HA) population, real‐world data on the safety and efficacy is limited. Aim: To report on bleeding and safety in paediatric patients receiving emicizumab prophylaxis. Methods: Data were extracted from the multicentre prospective observational PedNet Registry (NCT02979119). Children with haemophilia A, and ≥50 FVIII exposures or inhibitors present receiving emicizumab maintenance therapy were analysed. Data were summarized as medians with interquartile range (IQR, P25–P75). Mean (95% confidence interval (CI)), annualized (joint) bleeding rate (A(J)BR) during emicizumab and ≤2 years before emicizumab prophylaxis were modelled and compared using negative binomial regression. Results: Total of 177 patients started emicizumab at median 8.6 years (IQR 4.8–13.1), most had no FVIII inhibitors (64%). Follow up before emicizumab was median: 1.68 years (IQR: 1.24–1.90) and during emicizumab: 1.32 years (IQR:.94–2.11). In patients without inhibitors, mean ABR reduced after starting emicizumab from 2.41 (CI 1.98–2.95) to 1.11 (CI.90–1.36, p <.001), while AJBR reduced from.74 (CI.56–.98) to.31 (CI.21–.46, p <.001). Concordantly, in patients with inhibitors, mean ABR reduced from 5.08 (CI 4.08–6.38) to.75 (CI.56–1.01, p <.001), while AJBR reduced from 1.90 (CI 1.42–2.58) to.34 (CI.21–.56, p <.001). Five emicizumab‐related adverse events were reported (3% of the cohort), including one patient with antidrug antibodies. Conclusion: This study showed improved bleeding control compared to previous treatment and a favourable safety profile during emicizumab therapy in paediatric haemophilia A patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To characterise non‐severe haemophilia A (HA) patients enrolled on the Australian Bleeding Disorders Registry (ABDR) treated through a state‐wide Haemophilia Treatment Centre (HTC) with respect to their mutational profile, inhibitor risk and health‐care burden. Method: We conducted a single‐centre observational study of all non‐severe HA patients treated at the Alfred Health HTC registered on the ABDR as of the 26th July 2023. Data were extracted from the ABDR and electronic medical record (EMR) regarding demographics, severity, genetic testing, treatment, inhibitors, bleeding events and procedures. Inhibitor risk was calculated as a function of exposure days (EDs) of FVIII replacement. Results: There were 289 non‐severe HA patients treated at the Alfred HTC registered on the ABDR as of July 2023, all of whom were adult patients aged > 18 years old. Genotyping had been performed in 228/289 (78.9%). Of the inhibitor analysis population, 14/193 (7.3%) had an inhibitor. The cumulative incidence of inhibitor development at 75 EDs was 31% (95% CI 13%–46%). The median cost of bypassing agents per inhibitor patient was $57,087.50/year. Conclusion: These results demonstrate a relatively high inhibitor prevalence and incidence risk in non‐severe HA compared to previously published work, although this may partly reflect a smaller population size. High rates of genotyping have allowed representative mutational characterisation. The burden of care imposed by non‐severe HA in terms of bleeding events, procedures and bypassing agent cost is larger than expected, particularly within the inhibitor population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Consensus over the definition of recombinant factor VIII (rFVIII) product classification in haemophilia A is lacking. rFVIII products are often classified as standard half‐life (SHL) or extended half‐life (EHL); despite this, no universally accepted definition currently exists. One proposed definition includes half‐life, area under the curve, and technology designed to extend half‐life; however, the International Society on Thrombosis and Haemostasis defines activity over time as the most intuitive information for building treatment regimens and the World Federation of Hemophilia describes rFVIII product classification in terms of infusion frequency. Aim: To summarise published data on the clinical and pharmacokinetic criteria used to define rFVIII product classification. Methods: PubMed and EMBASE database searches of English‐language articles (2002–2022) were conducted using search strings to identify the relevant population, intervention, and outcomes (e.g., clinical and pharmacokinetic parameters). Articles then underwent title/abstract and full‐text screens. Results: Among 1147 identified articles, 62 were included. Half‐life was the most widely reported outcome with no clear trends or product groupings observed. No clear groupings emerged among other outcomes, including infusion frequency, consumption, and efficacy. As activity over time was reported in few articles, further investigation of its relevance to rFVIII product classification is warranted. Conclusion: The findings of this systematic literature review suggest that parameters other than half‐life might be important for the development of a comprehensive and clinically relevant rFVIII product classification definition. There seems to be an opportunity to consider parameters that are clinically meaningful and useful for shared decision‐making in haemophilia A treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The healthcare systems in Asia vary greatly due to the socio‐economic and cultural diversities which impact haemophilia management. Methods: An advisory board meeting was conducted with experts in haemophilia care from Asia to understand the heterogeneity in clinical practices and care provision in the region. Findings: The overall prevalence of haemophilia in Asia ranges between 3 and 8.58/100,000 patients. Haemophilia A was more prevalent as compared to haemophilia B with a ratio of around 5:1. There is under‐diagnosis in the region due to lack of diagnosis, registries and/or lack of appropriate facilities in suburban areas. Most patients are referred to the haematologists by their families or primary care physicians, while some are identified during bleeding episodes. Genetic testing faces obstacles like resource constraints, services available at limited centres and unwillingness of patients to participate. Prophylaxis is offered for people with haemophilia (PWH) with a severe bleeding phenotype. Recombinant factors are approved in most countries across the region and are the preferred therapy. The challenges highlighted for not receiving a high standard of care include patients' reluctance to use an intravenous treatment, poor patient compliance due to frequency of infusions, budget constraints and lack of funding, insurance, availability and accessibility of factor concentrates. Prevalence of neutralizing antibodies ranged from 5% to 20% in the region. Use of immune tolerance induction and bypassing agents to treat inhibitors depends on their cost and availability. Conclusion: Haemophilia care in Asia has evolved to a great extent. However, some challenges remain for which a strategic approach along with multi‐stakeholder involvement are needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Emicizumab (Emi) is used as haemostatic prophylaxis for patients with haemophilia A (PwHA). Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) is a condition characterized by persistent systemic activation of coagulation, but there is yet no information on coagulation and fibrinolysis potentials in Emi‐treated PwHA with DIC. Aim: To examine the effect of Emi on coagulation and fibrinolysis potentials in HA‐model DIC plasmas. Methods: Plasma from a patient with sepsis‐DIC (seven patients) was treated with anti‐factor (F)VIII monoclonal antibody (HA‐model DIC plasma) and incubated with Emi (50 µg/mL). The plasma was then assessed using clot‐fibrinolysis waveform analysis (CFWA). Coagulation and fibrinolysis parameters were expressed as ratios relative to normal plasma (|min1|‐ratio and |FL‐min1|‐ratio, respectively). Patients and results: In case 1, coagulant potential was slightly high and fibrinolytic potential was extremely low, presenting a coagulant‐dominant state (|min1|‐ratio/|FL‐min1|‐ratio: 1.1/.38). In cases 2–5, fibrinolytic potential was not suppressed, but there were marked hypercoagulant potentials, indicating relative coagulant‐dominant states. In case 6, coagulant and fibrinolytic potentials were increased but well balanced (|min1|‐ratio/|FL‐min1|‐ratio: 1.38/1.28). In case 7, both potentials were severely deteriorated in not only CFWA but also the thrombin/plasmin generation assay. The addition of Emi into the HA‐model DIC plasmas increased |min1|‐ratio values in all cases, but the coagulant potentials did not exceed the initial ones (DIC plasma before treatment with anti‐FVIII antibody). Conclusions: The presence of Emi in the HA‐model DIC plasma improved coagulation potentials, but did not increase coagulation potentials beyond those of DIC plasma in non‐HA states. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Ε‐Aminocaproic acid oral solution (EACA OS) is the only commercially available antifibrinolytic for patients who cannot swallow tablets. Insurance denials and high costs remain barriers to its use. Objectives: To determine the safety and efficacy of crushed tranexamic acid tablets in water (cTXAw) for children with bleeding disorders. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed records of children (<10 years) with bleeding disorders who received cTXAw or EACA OS from 1 December 2018, through 31 July 2022, at Mayo Clinic (Rochester, Minnesota). Bleeding outcomes were defined according to ISTH criteria. Results: Thirty‐two patients were included (median age, 3 years; male, n = 23). Diagnoses were VWD (n = 17), haemophilia (n = 5), FVII deficiency (n = 3), inherited platelet disorder (n = 4), ITP (n = 2), and combined FV and FVII deficiencies (n = 1). Thirty‐two courses of cTXAw (monotherapy 24/32; mean duration 6 days) and fifteen courses of EACA (monotherapy 12/15; mean duration 5 days) were administered. No surgical procedures (n = 28) were complicated by bleeding. Of the 19 bleeding events, 16 had effective haemostasis, two had no reported outcome, and one had no response. cTXAw and EACA were equally effective in preventing and treating bleeding (p value >.1). No patients had adverse effects. Eight of 19 patients (42%) who were initially prescribed EACA OS did not receive it because of cost or insurance denial. The estimated average wholesale price of one treatment was $94 for cTXAw and $905 for EACA OS. Conclusions: CTXAw appears to be an effective, safe, and low‐cost alternative option to EACA OS for young children with bleeding disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The physical pain and disability affecting many people with haemophilia A (PwHA) are known detractors from psychological wellbeing. While psychosocial support is considered a core tenet of the haemophilia comprehensive care structure, the extent to which mental health challenges are detected and monitored by the individuals treating haematologist remains relatively unexplored. Aim: To describe prevalence of anxiety and depression in a real‐world cohort of adult PwHA and evaluate the congruence in reporting of anxiety or depression (A/D) between PwHA and their treating physicians. Methods: Data for PwHA without inhibitors was drawn from the European 'Cost of Haemophilia: A Socioeconomic Survey II' (CHESS II) study. Haematologist‐indicated comorbidities of anxiety and depression were unified into a single A/D indicator. The EQ‐5D‐5L health status measure was used to characterise self‐reported A/D, with individuals stratified into two non‐mutually exclusive subgroups based on level of A/D reported (Subgroup A: 'some' or above; Subgroup B: 'moderate' or above). Result: Of 381 PwHA with evaluable EQ‐5D‐5L responses, 54% (n = 206) self‐reported at least some A/D (Subgroup A) and 17% (n = 66) reported at least moderate A/D (Subgroup B). Patient‐physician congruence in A/D reporting was 53% and 76% for Subgroups A and B, respectively. Descriptive analysis suggested that individuals with physician‐ and/or self‐reported A/D experienced worse clinical outcomes (bleeding events, joint disease, chronic pain). Conclusion: While adverse clinical outcomes appear to correlate with A/D, self‐reports of moderate–severe symptoms occasionally lacked formal recognition from treating physicians. Cross‐disciplinary surveillance of mental health issues could improve both psychological and clinical outcomes among PwHA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Joint damage in patients with haemophilia (PwH) is commonly assessed by imaging, but few reports have described how structural changes in joints, for example, haemophilic arthropathy (HA)—affect gait ability. Objectives: We evaluated gait function among PwH with HA, PwH without HA, and people without haemophilia (non‐PwH) using a Zebris FDM‐T treadmill (FDM‐T), an easy‐to‐use gait assessment instrument with a force sensor matrix. Methods: The following gait parameters were collected: centre of pressure trajectory intersection (COPi) anterior/posterior variability, COPi lateral variability, COPi anterior/posterior symmetry, COPi lateral symmetry, single‐limb support line (SLSL) length, and SLSL variability. Participants walked at their typical gait speed. The physical function of the PwH was assessed by the Hemophilia Joint Health Score (HJHS). Parameters were compared among the three groups. Results: Twelve PwH with HA, 28 PwH without HA, and 12 non‐PwH were enrolled. Gait speed significantly differed between groups (non‐PwH, 3.1 ± 0.7; PwH without HA, 2.0 ± 0.7; PwH with HA; 1.5 ± 0.4). The COPi anterior/posterior variability, COPi lateral variability, SLSL length, and SLSL variability were greater in the PwH groups than in the non‐PwH group. The COPi lateral symmetry differed between PwH with HA and the other groups. The HJHS was not correlated with gait parameters among PwH with HA. Conclusions: Gait parameters and speed were abnormal in both PwH with HA and PwH without HA. The FDM‐T can be used to identify early stages of physical dysfunction that cannot be detected by conventional functional assessments such as the HJHS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Haemophilia A negatively affects a patient's quality of life. There is a limited amount of health utility data (a measure of health‐related quality of life) available for patients with haemophilia A. This information is crucial for cost‐effectiveness analysis for haemophilia A treatment. Objectives: The goal of this project is to elicit the health utilities and factors impacting utility values for haemophilia A patients in Canada. Methods: This is a population‐based, cross‐sectional, retrospective study of health utilities in patients with haemophilia A using Patient Report Outcomes Burdens and Experiences (PROBE) components from the Canadian Bleeding Disorders Registry (CBDR). A review of the mean utilities for three severity states, defined by clotting factor VIII level, was completed. A multiple linear regression analysis was completed to examine the determinants of health utilities including age, treatment type, chronic pain status, number of limited joints, and bleed rate. Results: The average utility values (and standard deviations) for patients with haemophilia A in Canada are.79(.17),.76(.20), and.77(.19) for patients with severe, moderate, and mild haemophilia. The regression showed chronic pain status and the number of additional comorbidities as major significant factors (p‐value <.001) in haemophilia A utility. Haemophilia severity was shown to be a major factor with smaller p‐value (p‐value <.05). Conclusions: Haemophilia A patients have lower utility than the general population. Chronic pain was shown to be a significant, major factor in health‐related quality of life. Our study is essential for valuing health outcomes in haemophilia A‐related cost‐effectiveness analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

\nIntroduction: The phase 2/3 PROTECT VIII study demonstrated long-term efficacy and safety of damoctocog alfa pegol (BAY 94-9027; Jivi®), a B-domain-deleted recombinant factor VIII (FVIII), site-specifically PEGylated to improve its pharmacokinetic profile. We report a post hoc assessment of bleeding and safety outcomes in the subgroup of patients, aged 12–<18 years at enrolment. Method: PROTECT VIII was a multicentre, open-label study of previously treated males aged 12–65 years with severe haemophilia A (FVIII <1%). Twelve patients were included in this analysis. All received damoctocog alfa pegol prophylaxis for the total time in study (median [range] time in study 4.0 [1.3–6.2] years). Results: Overall median (Q1; Q3) total and joint annualised bleeding rates were 1.8 (0.4; 5.1) and 0.7 (0.2; 1.8), respectively, for the entire study. During the last 6 months of treatment, eight (66.7%) and ten (83.3%) out of 12 patients experienced zero total and joint bleeds, respectively. No patient developed FVIII inhibitors. No deaths or thrombotic events were reported. Conclusion: Efficacy and safety of damoctocog alfa pegol were confirmed in adolescent patients with haemophilia A, with data for up to 6 years supporting its use as a long-term treatment option in this group as they transition into adulthood. This research article gives further information about how well damoctocog alfa pegol works, and how safe it is, in those patients who were aged twelve to less-than-eighteen (“adolescents”) when they joined the PROTECT VIII clinical trial in patients 12–65 years with haemophilia A. People living with haemophilia A lack a part of their blood that normally allows clots to form. Damoctocog alfa pegol is a replacement for this missing “clotting factor”; it has also been altered to allow it to stay in the body for longer than other clotting factors, allowing for less frequent infusions. As children become adolescents and begin to manage their own factor replacement, rather than being helped by parents or others who take care of them, a treatment with less infusions is easier to follow. A clotting factor that stays in the body for longer, like damoctocog alfa pegol, might be useful for these adolescent patients. There were twelve people who were adolescents when they joined the PROTECT VIII trial. They spent an average of 4 years in the trial and had on average 1.8 bleeds every year. During the last 6 months of treatment, 8 patients had no bleeds. No study-drug-related serious adverse events were seen, no patient stopped treatment due to an adverse event, no deaths happened and no patients became immune to the treatment. This young, active patient group may benefit from the longer and more flexible dosing offered by damoctocog alfa pegol. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: The hallmark of haemophilia A (HA) therapy is prophylaxis, aimed at spontaneous bleeding prevention. Emicizumab provides a viable alternative to intravenous factor replacement therapy. However, data on its use in infants are limited. This single‐centre open arm prospective study reports on emicizumab prophylaxis in infants. We included severe HA patients under 1 year who started emicizumab prophylaxis since 2018, with longitudinal follow‐up. The study collected data on demographics, clinical and laboratory variables, the occurrence of bleeding events, surgeries and treatment outcomes. Of the 27 enrolled infants, whose median age at prophylaxis initiation was 7 months, 24 primarily choose to start emicizumab therapy (3/27 switched from FVIII prophylaxis due to development of FVIII inhibitors). The median age for prophylaxis initiation decreased to 3 months in 2023. Following emicizumab initiation, the median calculated ABR decreased, and no intracranial haemorrhages were observed. Thrombin generation showed a significant improvement in peak height and endogenous thrombin potential at steady state after a loading period. Our study highlights a shift towards early prophylaxis in the era of non‐replacement therapies. It underscores the need for continuous evaluation and refinement of treatment approaches, emphasizing personalized care and diligent monitoring in the evolving field of paediatric haemophilia care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: After decades of stumbling clinical development, the first gene therapies for haemophilia A and B have been commercialized and have normalized factor (F)VIII and factor (F)IX levels in some individuals in the long term. Several other clinical programs testing adeno‐associated viral (AAV) vector gene therapy are at various stages of clinical testing. Discussion: Multiyear follow‐up in phase 1/2 and 3 studies showed long‐term and sometimes curative but widely variable and unpredictable efficacy. Liver toxicities, mostly low‐grade, occur in the 1st year in at least some individuals in all haemophilia A and B trials and are poorly understood. Wide variability and unpredictability of outcome and slow decline of FVIII levels are a major disadvantage because immune responses to AAV vectors preclude repeat dosing, which otherwise could improve suboptimal or restore declining expression, while overexpression may predispose to thrombosis. Long‐term safety outcomes will need lifelong monitoring because AAV vectors infused at high doses integrate into chromosomes at rates that raise questions about potential oncogenicity and necessitate vigilance. Alternative gene transfer systems employing gene editing and/or non‐viral vectors are under development and promise to overcome some limitations of the current state of the art for both haemophilia A and B. Conclusions: AAV gene therapies for haemophilia have now become new treatment options but not universal cures. AAV is a powerful but imperfect gene transfer platform. Biobetter FVIII transgenes may help solve some problems plaguing gene therapy for haemophilia A. Addressing variability and unpredictability of efficacy, and delivery of gene therapy to ineligible patient subgroups may require different gene transfer systems, most of which are not ready for clinical translation yet but bring innovations needed to overcome the current limitations of gene therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Attempts to achieve a functional cure or amelioration of the severe X linked bleeding disorders haemophilia A (factor VIII deficiency) and haemophilia B (factor IX deficiency) using AAV‐based vectors have been frustrated by immune responses that limit efficacy and durability. The immune responses include adaptive and innate pathways as well as cytokine mediated inflammation, especially of the target organ cells—hepatocytes. Immune suppression has only been partly effective in clinical trials at ameliorating the immune response and the lack of good animal models has delayed progress in identifying mechanisms and developing more effective approaches to controlling these effects of AAV gene transfer. Here we discuss the arguments for and against more potent immunosuppression to improve factor expression after AAV‐mediated gene therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Haemophilia is an inherited bleeding disorder which causes significant morbidity and mortality, especially in the severe form. Prophylaxis with factor replacement has high efficacy in reducing bleeding but is limited by the need for frequent intravenous infusion and fluctuations in haemostasis between doses. Additional prophylaxis therapies are being developed which may overcome some of the current treatment barriers. Gene therapy (GT) is being developed to provide a functional cure such that there is sustained factor expression and minimal to no need for additional haemostatic therapy. There are now two approved gene therapies for haemophilia which may be transformative for many individuals. Benefits of GT should go beyond increasing factor activity and reducing bleeding as persons with haemophilia aim to achieve a 'haemophilia‐free mind' and health equity with optimal health and well‐being. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction. The case is presented of a 10-year-old boy with severe Haemophilia A, in whom standard therapy led to the development of an inhibitor to factor VIII. Immunological tolerance induction (ITI) did not yield the expected result, and inhibitor titers were not reduced. Due to numerous recurrent bleeds, prophylaxis with activated prothrombin complex concentrate (aPCC) was initiated, with recombinant factor VIIa administered in the case of bleeding episodes. Despite second and third-line ITI treatments, desired outcomes were not achieved, leading to therapy discontinuation and initiation of emicizumab treatment. The new therapy significantly reduced bleeding occurrences. Results. This case clearly illustrates the greater efficacy of emicizumab compared to other drugs, confirming its application in patients with developed factor VIII inhibitors where ITI therapy was ineffective. Prophylaxis with this antibody significantly reduces bleeding frequency and improves the patient's quality of life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The increased life expectancy of patients with haemophilia A (HA) has led to a growing prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors and events. There is still scarce evidence on the safety and appropriate duration of dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) after acute coronary syndrome (ACS) in HA patients. Aim: We describe our experience on the clinical management of Italian HA patients after ACS. Methods: Nine patients with congenital HA treated with DAPT after a revascularization procedure performed for ACS have been enrolled and followed at the Angelo Bianchi Bonomi Haemophilia and Thrombosis Center in Milan between 2005 and September 2022. The safety and efficacy of DAPT with or without FVIII prophylaxis were assessed. Results: Ten ACS events occurred in the nine HA patients (four mild and five severe). All events were treated with percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty with deployment of 1 to 3 drug‐eluting stents followed by DAPT for 1–12 months. All patients except one were treated with FVIII prophylaxis during DAPT aimed at achieving FVIII trough levels ≥20–30 IU/dL. DAPT was effective in all cases in preventing early ACS recurrence, with only a late recurrence. We observed two clinically relevant non‐major bleeds (one in a patient without FVIII prophylaxis) and three minor bleeds. No venous thrombosis occurred. Conclusion: The long‐term secondary antithrombotic prevention consisting of DAPT and FVIII prophylaxis achieving a trough level of 20–30 IU/dL can be effective and safe in HA patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Damoctocog alfa pegol (BAY 94–9027, Jivi®) is an extended half‐life recombinant factor (F)VIII replacement, indicated for the treatment of haemophilia A in patients aged ≥12 years. Following introduction of damoctocog alfa pegol in Canada in 2020, there have been no reports on routine clinical effectiveness and satisfaction, when switching from a previous FVIII product in Canada. Aim: To report changes in pharmacokinetics, effectiveness, utilization and patient satisfaction when switching to damoctocog alfa pegol prophylaxis from previous standard half‐life octocog alfa (BAY 81–8973, Kovaltry®) treatment. Methods: A single‐centre, intra‐patient comparison of pharmacokinetics and clinical outcomes was performed. Blood samples drawn once pre‐dose and ≥2 times post‐dose were measured by a one‐stage assay to assess pharmacokinetic parameters including area under the curve (AUC, primary endpoint). Patient‐reported outcomes data were collected using the Patient‐Reported Outcomes, Burdens and Experiences questionnaire (PROBE). Clinical outcomes included annualized bleeding rate (ABR) and factor utilization. Results: Dose‐normalized AUC was significantly increased after switch to damoctocog alfa pegol from octocog alfa. Median (quartile [Q]1; Q3) annualized bleeding rates were 0.67 (0.00; 1.33) with damoctocog alfa pegol and 1.33 (0.00; 2.67) with octocog alfa. Half of the patients receiving damoctocog alfa pegol prophylaxis experienced zero bleeds (n = 9, 50.0%) versus 38.9% (n = 7) of patients treated with octocog alfa. Patients' good quality of life was maintained. Conclusion: This study provides routine clinical evidence supporting the benefits of switching from octocog alfa to damoctocog alfa pegol for patients with severe haemophilia A. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Recombinant porcine factor VIII (rpFVIII) is a treatment option for break‐through bleeds in patients with congenital haemophilia A with inhibitors (CHAwI) on emicizumab. However, there are limited data about the measurement of rpFVIII in the presence of emicizumab. Aim: To analyse whether rpFVIII can be measured with a chromogenic assay with bovine component (bCSA) in plasma from CHAwI on emicizumab treatment. Methods: In the first part of the study, FVIII deficient plasma was spiked with rpFVIII, in the second part, commercial plasma from CHAwI was spiked with emicizumab and rpFVIII, and in the third part, plasma from CHAwI on emicizumab treatment was spiked with rpFVIII. FVIII was then measured with bCSA and a chromogenic assay with human component (hCSA). Thrombin generation (TG) and clot‐waveform analysis (CWA) were also carried out. Results: The recovery of rpFVIII measured with bCSA is approximately 80% and is further influenced by the presence of an anti‐porcine inhibitor. rpFVIII assessed with hCSA was influenced by emicizumab. CWA and TG showed a weak correlation with baseline emicizumab concentration, but peak thrombin and CWA correlated well with increasing emicizumab concentrations and rpFVIII activities. Conclusion: This study indicates that rpFVIII can be measured in the presence of emicizumab with a bCSA. A calibration curve for the measurement of rpFVIII with bCSA should be established. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Various risk factors for inhibitor development in haemophilia A (HA) have been described but Indian data remains scanty. Aim: We aimed to evaluate the genetic changes in Indian HA‐patients that are associated with the development of inhibitors. Methods: All HA‐patients with inhibitors who availed coagulation‐laboratory services from January‐2015 till December‐2021 and had their samples preserved for DNA extraction were included in this study. An equal number of severity‐matched HA patients without inhibitors were also included as controls. Intron 22 and intron 1 inversions in Factor VIII gene were identified using inverse‐shifting‐PCR. Inversion‐negative patients were further assessed by targeted NGS, MLPA. Results: Thirty HA‐patients with inhibitors were identified. All had severe‐HA. Thirty severe‐HA‐patients without inhibitors were also included as controls. Intron 22 inversion (63.3%) and large deletions (15%) were the commonest variants identified. There was no difference in genetic variants in patients with low and high titre inhibitors. A3, A2 and C2 were the most common domains involved in inversion‐negative patients with inhibitors. However, there was no significant difference in domain involvement among inversion‐negative patients with and without inhibitors. Seven novel‐variants were identified, including three large deletions, one large duplication and two nonsense variants in inhibitor‐positive patients, and one frameshift variant in inhibitor‐negative patient. After adjusting for clinical risk‐factors, large deletions were independently associated with the presence of inhibitors [aOR:6.1 (1.41‐56.3)]. Conclusion: Intron 22 inversions are the commonest variant in Indian patients with severe‐HA. Large deletions predispose to inhibitor development independent of clinical risk factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Efmoroctocog alfa (rFVIIIFc) is an extended half‐life FVIII used notably in surgery for patients with haemophilia A. More information is needed of its usage in real‐life. Methods: Adult patients with HA followed at the Lyon Comprehensive Hemophilia Care Center who underwent a surgery with rFVIIIFc were included in this retrospective analysis. The pharmacokinetics of rFVIIIFc was assessed by plasma factor VIII clotting activity (FVIII:C) using both one‐stage (OSA) and chromogenic substrate (CSA) assays. Results: A total of 39 major and 31 minor surgeries were performed in 49 patients treated with rFVIIIFc. The median dose of rFVIIIFc infused before major and minor surgeries respectively was 67.5 ((interquartile range [IQR] 52.6‐76.9) and 48.0 (38.5‐51.8) IU/kg. For major surgeries, during the first postoperative week, the median residual FVIII:C was 78 (64.5‐101.5) IU/dL with OSA and 99 (71‐118) IU/dL with CSA (p <.0001). After surgery, rFVIIIFc doses were adjusted according to CSA results. This led to a significant decrease of rFVIIIFc consumption compared to what would have been proposed according to the OSA assay, without unusual bleeding or appearance of inhibitor. Considering the high price of the molecule, this was also associated with a significant cost reduction. Conclusion: Dose adjustment of rFVIIIFc according to FVIII: C measured by CSA is effective, safe and well tolerated in patients with haemophilia A undergoing invasive surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Eptacog beta (activated), a recombinant human factor VIIa (rFVIIa), was approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2020 (SEVENFACT®, LFB & HEMA Biologics) and the European Medicines Agency (EMA) in 2022 (CEVENFACTA®, LFB). In Europe, eptacog beta is indicated for the treatment of bleeds and the prevention of bleeds during surgery or invasive procedures in adults and adolescents (≥12 years old) with congenital haemophilia A or B with high‐titre inhibitors (≥5 BU) or with low‐titre inhibitors who are expected to have a high anamnestic response to factor VIII or factor IX, or to be refractory to increased dosing of these factors. The efficacy and safety of eptacog beta were evaluated in three Phase III clinical studies, PERSEPT 1, 2 and 3. For the EMA filing dossier, the analysis of data from PERSEPT 1 and 2 differed from the analysis used to support the filing in the US. In this review, we summarise current data regarding the mode of action, clinical efficacy and safety of eptacog beta for the management of haemophilia A and B in patients with inhibitors from a European perspective. In addition to providing a valuable summary of the analyses of the clinical data for eptacog beta conducted for the EMA, our review summarises the potential differentiators for eptacog beta compared with other current bypassing agents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: For people with haemophilia A (PwHA), bleeding in the joints leads to joint damage and haemophilia‐related arthropathy, impacting range of motion and life expectancy. Existing guidelines for managing haemophilia A support healthcare professionals (HCPs) and PwHA in their efforts to preserve joint health. However, such guidance should be reviewed, considering emerging evidence and consensus as presented in this manuscript. Methods: Fifteen HCPs experienced in the management of PwHA in the UK participated in a three‐round Delphi panel. Consensus was defined at ≥70% of panellists agreeing or disagreeing for Likert‐scale questions, and ≥70% selecting the same option for multiple‐ or single‐choice questions. Questions not reaching consensus were revised for the next round. Results: 26.8% (11/41), 44.8% (13/29) and 93.3% (14/15) of statements reached consensus in Rounds 1, 2 and 3, respectively. HCPs agreed that prophylaxis should be offered to patients with a baseline factor VIII (FVIII) level of ≤5 IU/dL and that, where there is no treatment burden, the aim of prophylaxis should be to achieve a trough FVIII level ≥15 IU/dL and maintain a longer period with FVIII levels of ≥20–30 IU/dL to provide better bleed protection. The aspirational goal for PwHA is to prevent all joint bleeds, which may be achieved by maintaining normalised (50–150 IU/dL) FVIII levels. Conclusion: The panel of experts were largely aligned on approaches to preserving joint health in PwHA, and this consensus may help guide HCPs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Recombinant porcine factor VIII (rpFVIII; susoctocog alfa) is predicted to provide functional FVIII activity in patients with congenital haemophilia A with inhibitors (CHAWI). Aims: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of rpFVIII in patients with CHAWI undergoing invasive procedures. Methods: This phase 3, multicentre, single‐arm, open‐label study (NCT02895945) enrolled males aged 12–75 years with severe/moderately severe CHAWI who required surgical/invasive procedures. Patients received a loading dose of rpFVIII 1–2 h before surgery. The primary outcome was the proportion of all procedures with a 'good' or 'excellent' response (treatment success) on the global haemostatic efficacy assessment score. Results: Of the eight dosed patients, five completed the study. Six of seven surgeries (85.7%; 95% confidence interval, 42.1–99.6) achieved treatment success; five were rated 'excellent', one was rated 'good'. Seven surgery‐related bleeding episodes occurred in three patients during the study, with none requiring additional surgical intervention. Overall, six of eight patients experienced 17 treatment‐emergent adverse events. Three patients developed de novo inhibitors to rpFVIII. Five patients reported anamnestic reactions, three to both human (h) FVIII (i.e., alloantibodies to exogenous FVIII detected with anti‐hFVIII assays) and rpFVIII, and two to hFVIII only. Four serious adverse events were considered related to rpFVIII (three anti‐rpFVIII antibody positive; one anamnestic reaction to hFVIII and rpFVIII). Conclusion: Good haemostasis was achieved with rpFVIII during the immediate perioperative period. The study was terminated early because the study sponsor and health authorities determined that the risk of anamnestic reactions outweighs the benefits in this study population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Damoctocog alfa pegol (BAY 94‐9027, Jivi®) is an approved extended half‐life factor VIII (FVIII) for treatment of previously treated patients with haemophilia A aged ≥12 years. We report the final results of an interventional, post‐marketing study of damoctocog alfa pegol prophylaxis in patients with severe haemophilia A. Methods: In this open‐label, interventional, post‐marketing, phase 4 trial (NCT04085458), previously FVIII‐treated patients with severe haemophilia A aged ≥18 years received damoctocog alfa pegol for ≥100 exposure days (EDs). Patients initially received 45 IU/kg every 5 days (recommended) or 40 IU/kg twice‐weekly. At Visit 3, patients' doses could be increased, or treatment frequency adapted. The primary endpoint was FVIII inhibitor development (titre ≥.6 Bethesda units). Secondary endpoints included anti‐polyethylene glycol (PEG) antibody development, treatment‐emergent adverse events (AEs) and annualized bleeding rate (ABR). Results: Overall, 36 patients were enrolled; 32 patients received treatment, of whom, 27 completed the study. No patients developed FVIII inhibitors; three tested transiently positive for low‐titre anti‐PEG antibodies without clinical relevance. Three patients reported study‐drug‐related AEs of mild or moderate intensity. Two patients discontinued the study due to AEs. No deaths occurred. Most patients (70%) were treated with E5D/E7D regimens. The median (Q1;Q3) total ABR (N = 30) was 3.0 (.0;9.0) pre‐study and 1.8 (.7;5.9) during the study. Conclusion: Damoctocog alfa pegol individualized prophylaxis regimens were well‐tolerated with no immunogenicity concerns. ABRs improved following the switch from pre‐study prophylaxis to damoctocog alfa pegol prophylaxis. These results support the favourable safety and efficacy profile of damoctocog alfa pegol prophylaxis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Emicizumab is the initial subcutaneously administered bispecific antibody approved as a prophylactic treatment for patients with haemophilia A (PwHA). Aim: This study assessed the economic evaluation of emicizumab treatment for non‐inhibitor severe haemophilia A (HA) patients in India. Methods: A Markov model evaluated the cost‐effectiveness of emicizumab prophylaxis compared to on‐demand therapy (ODT), low‐dose prophylaxis (LDP; 1565 IU/kg/year), intermediate‐dose prophylaxis (IDP; 3915 IU/kg/year) and high‐dose prophylaxis (HDP; 7125 IU/kg/year) for HA patients without factor VIII inhibitors. Inputs from HAVEN‐1 and HAVEN‐3 trials included transition probabilities of different bleeding types. Costs and benefits were discounted at a 3.5% annual rate. Results: In the base‐case analysis, emicizumab was cost‐effective compared to HDP, with an incremental cost‐effectiveness ratio (ICER) per quality‐adjusted life‐years (QALY) of Indian rupees (INR) 27,869. Compared to IDP, ODT and LDP, emicizumab prophylaxis could be considered a cost‐effective option if the paying threshold is >1 per capita gross domestic product (GDP) with ICER/QALY values of INR 264,592, INR 255,876 and INR 305,398, respectively. One‐way sensitivity analysis (OWSA) highlighted emicizumab cost as the parameter with the greatest impact on ICERs. Probabilistic sensitivity analysis (PSA) indicated that emicizumab had a 94.7% and 49.4% probability of being cost‐effective at willingness‐to‐pay (WTP) thresholds of three and two‐times per capita GDP. Conclusion: Emicizumab prophylaxis is cost‐effective compared to HDP and provides value for money compared to ODT, IDP, and LDP for severe non‐inhibitor PwHA in India. Its long‐term humanistic, clinical and economic benefits outweigh alternative options, making it a valuable choice in resource‐constrained settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cyrus, a haemophilia nurse in Kenya, reflects on his experience of treating a patient with a rare complication of haemophilia in a setting with limited access to treatment. The patient developed a debilitating abdominal pseudotumor following an inadequately treated traumatic bleed. After consulting with experts in other countries, surgery was deemed too great a risk. Initiating FVIII prophylaxis with the aim of shrinking the pseudotumour was identified as the most appropriate approach to treatment, however supply issues made it difficult to maintain a prophylactic regimen. When the pseudotumour continued to grow, posing a risk to adjacent organs, an international partnership enabled the initiation of emicizumab prophylaxis through a clinical trial. It was hoped that emicizumab would prevent further bleeding into the pseudotumour and allow it to shrink over time. The patient continued to experience breakthrough bleeding and was withdrawn from the trial after 2.5 years. By this time the supply of FVIII to Kenya through the through the WFH Humanitarian Aid Program had increased and the patient was able to resume FVIII prophylaxis. The pseudotumour is now stable and he continues to be cared for by the same nursing team. Reflecting on this case, Cyrus highlights the value of sharing expertise across borders and working in partnership to try to ensure the best treatment outcome for a patient with a rare complication in a resource-constrained setting. He also reflects on being compassionate in his practice and the importance of a holistic approach to patient support.

Background: Thromboembolic events are increasingly reported in the aging haemophilia population. The purpose of this study was to understand current practices and identify knowledge and research gaps in the management of persons with haemophilia requiring antithrombotic therapy for cardiovascular disorders (CVD) or venous thromboembolism (VTE). Methods: We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE and Scopus for studies reporting on more than two patients with inherited haemophilia A or B, without inhibitors, requiring antithrombotic therapy for CVD or VTE. Data were extracted by two independent reviewers and analysed using descriptive statistics and narrative synthesis. Results: We included 32 studies reporting on 432 persons with haemophilia. Three themes described the observed practice variation: (1) Difficulty weighing competing bleeding and thrombotic risks; (2) Tensions in providing standards of care and minimizing bleeding risk; (3) Advocacy for individualized strategies and multidisciplinary care. Different management strategies were used to treat persons with haemophilia in the setting of thromboembolic events, such as avoiding or choosing lower intensity antithrombotic therapy, or procedural alternatives to antithrombotic therapy. Initiation or alteration in haemostatic therapies along with antithrombotic therapy were common strategies and reported in 30 studies. However, data on target factor levels and bleeding and thrombotic events were largely missing. Discussion: Our scoping review highlights unmet needs in the management of an aging population of persons with haemophilia with increasing prevalence of CVD and VTE. Management is inconsistent and divergent from those of non‐haemophilic patients. Prospective data are needed to inform optimal and evidence‐based management strategies of CVD and VTE in persons with haemophilia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: In people with haemophilia (PWH), recurrent episodes of bleeding lead to joint deterioration and bone resorption. To date, the effects of various other factors on bone mineral density (BMD) reduction have found conflicting results. Aim: The aim of this study was to analyse the relationships between BMD, bone mineral content (BMC), and trabecular bone score (TBS) parameters based on the dual X‐ray absorptiometry method (DXA) and potential risk factors for osteoporosis in patients with severe haemophilia A. Methods: Fifty‐five men with severe haemophilia A, aged 18–68 years, and 59 healthy volunteer men were enrolled in this study. Densitometric‐derived lumbar spine and femoral neck BMD, BMC, and TBS were measured. Blood analyses were performed for morphology parameters, liver and kidney function parameters, and viral status. Serum levels of oestradiol (E2), testosterone (T), dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate (DHEA‐S), parathormone, and vitamin D were measured. Results: Patients showed significantly lower BMD compared to controls (p <.003). The result below the expected range for age was nearly double (6.82% vs. 3.92%) in PWH under 50 years old compared to controls. Haemophilic patients also exhibited significantly higher vitamin D3 deficiency (p <.0001), which was strongly associated with low TBS. Additionally, low body mass index and high neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio were correlated with low BMC and BMD. Conclusions: This study confirms the prevalence of low BMD and BMC in patients with haemophilia in Poland. Factors that contribute to low BMD are primarily vitamin D deficiency, low BMI, high neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio, and low testosterone/oestradiol ratio. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The impact of moderate haemophilia on health‐related quality of life (HRQoL) and physical activity (PA) is not well known. In previous studies, persons with factor VIII/factor IX activity (FVIII/FIX:C) below 3 IU/dL were associated with a more severe bleeding phenotype than predicted. Aim: To explore HRQoL and PA in patients with moderate haemophilia A (MHA) and B (MHB). Methods: A cross‐sectional, multicentre study covering patients with MHA and MHB in Sweden, Finland, and Norway. HRQoL was assessed with the EuroQoL 5‐Dimensions (EQ‐5D) form and PA with the International Physical Activity Questionnaire among participants aged ≥15 years. Results: We report on 104 patients aged 15–84 years from the MoHem study. Overall, EQ‐5D utility was.85 (median) (Q1–Q3 0.73–1.0) with corresponding visual analogue scale (VAS) 80 (70–90), which were similar regardless of treatment modality, FVIII/FIX:C, and MHA or MHB. Pain and mobility were most frequently affected dimensions. Utility (r = ‐.54), VAS (r = ‐.42), and PA (r = ‐.32) correlated negatively with arthropathy (HJHS). Only patients aged 41–50 years displayed lower utility (p =.02) and VAS (p <.01) than the Norwegian population norm. Patients on prophylaxis aged 35–54 years reported higher PA than those treated on‐demand (p =.01). Conclusion: Haemophilic arthropathy had negative impact on HRQoL and PA in Nordic patients with moderate haemophilia. Middle‐aged patients captured lower utility and VAS than observed in the general population. Tailored prophylaxis and improved joint health may influence positively on HRQoL and PA also in moderate haemophilia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Regular, prophylactic intravenous (i.v.) FVIII can be challenging for some patients with haemophilia A. Subcutaneous (s.c.) FVIII administration could provide an alternative treatment option with greater convenience and without the complications associated with venous access. Aim: To assess the safety, pharmacokinetics (PK), bioavailability and efficacy of s.c. OCTA101, a recombinant FVIII with a recombinant von Willebrand factor fragment dimer. Methods: This was a single‐centre, prospective, open‐label, phase I/II study (NCT04046848). Previously treated male patients (≥18 years) with severe haemophilia A were eligible for the study. The primary objective of the study was to assess the safety (including immunogenicity) of OCTA101. Secondary objectives included assessments of PK, bioavailability, and the efficacy of prophylaxis. Results: Thirty patients were treated with OCTA101. FVIII inhibitors developed in five (16.7%) patients during daily prophylaxis with 40–60 IU/kg (three cases) and 12.5 IU/kg (two cases) OCTA101. The trial was therefore terminated. OCTA101 had a 2.5‐fold longer terminal half‐life compared with i.v. rFVIII, and bioavailability was 16.6%. Efficacy data at study termination indicated that daily prophylaxis with 40–60 IU/kg OCTA101 was efficacious in the absence of FVIII inhibitors. Conclusions: Despite promising PK and efficacy results, the trial was terminated due to the incidence of FVIII inhibitors. The occurrence of inhibitors at two dose levels suggests that their development may be related to the subcutaneous route of administration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The genetic variant responsible for haemophilia A (HA) significantly impacts endogenous coagulant factor VIII (FVIII:C) level, thus impacting DDAVP responsiveness. Blood group (BG) also impacts FVIII:C levels, but this is difficult to evaluate in a genetically heterogeneous population. Canada has a large cohort of mild‐moderate HA due to a single point variant: c.6104T>C, p.Val2035Ala—the Twillingate variant. Aim: To evaluate the impact of BG on endogenous FVIII:C levels and DDAVP responsiveness in a single genotype of mild‐moderate HA. Methods: This was a retrospective, single‐centre study. BG and FVIII:C levels were obtained for males with the Twillingate variant. One‐hour absolute and fold increases in FVIII:C post‐DDAVP were calculated. T‐tests and Mann–Whitney U tests were used to compare FVIII:C levels and DDAVP challenge variables between individuals according to BGs (O vs. non‐O). Results: Twenty males were included. There were significant differences between BGs (O vs. non‐O) in their lowest FVIII:C level at age <12 years (medians: 0.05 vs. 0.08 IU/mL; P =.05). Fifteen subjects underwent DDAVP challenges. Mean 1‐h FVIII:C were 0.29 (O BG) versus 0.41 IU/mL (non‐O BG); P =.04. There were no significant differences between BGs (O vs. non‐O) in mean absolute FVIII:C increase (0.20 vs. 0.27 IU/mL; P =.10) and FVIII:C fold increase (3.3‐fold vs. 3.8‐fold; P =.51). Conclusion: In HA subjects with an identical genotype, BG significantly impacts baseline FVIII:C levels and FVIII:C levels post‐DDAVP, but does not impact absolute and fold increases in FVIII:C with DDAVP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Patient‐reported outcomes (PROs) in people living with haemophilia A (PLWHA) are often under‐reported. Investigating PROs from a single study with a diverse population of PLWHA is valuable, irrespective of FVIII product or regimen. Aim: To report available data from the Expanding Communications on Haemophilia A Outcomes (ECHO) registry investigating the associations of patient, treatment and disease characteristics with PROs and clinical outcomes in PLWHA. Methods: ECHO (NCT02396862), a prospective, multinational, observational registry, enrolled participants aged ≥16 years with moderate or severe haemophilia A using any product or treatment regimen. Data collection, including a variety of PRO questionnaires, was planned at baseline and annually for ≥2 years. Associations between PRO scores and patient, treatment and disease characteristics were determined by statistical analyses. Results: ECHO was terminated early owing to logistical constraints. Baseline data were available from 269 PLWHA from Europe, the United States and Japan. Most participants received prophylactic treatment (76.2%), with those using extended‐half‐life products (10.0%) reporting higher treatment satisfaction. Older age and body weight >30 kg/m2 (>BMI) were associated with poorer joint health. Older age was associated with poorer physical functioning and work productivity. Health‐related quality of life and pain interference also deteriorated with age and >BMI; >BMI also increased pain severity scores. Conclusion: ECHO captured a variety of disease characteristics, treatment patterns, PROs and clinical outcomes obtained in real‐world practice with ≤1 year's follow‐up. Older age, poorer joint health and >BMI adversely affected multiple aspects of participant well‐being. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]