Research Studies

Objective:

The Evolving Treatment of Hemophilia’s Impact on Neurodevelopment, Intelligence and Other Cognitive Functions (eTHINK) study aims to evaluate the impact of hemophilia on neurodevelopment and cognitive function through the use of validated instruments and to identify covariates that drive differences in neuropsychological performance.

Methods:

A sample of at least 510 males aged 1-21 years (~25 per age) with hemophilia A or B (any severity, with or without inhibitors) will be enrolled in a cross-sectional, non-interventional study. Following ethics review and informed consent, data collected will include a structured developmental and hemophilia history interview, a standardized neurologic examination, and a comprehensive neuropsychological assessment of cognitive/motor development (Bayley-III), intelligence (WPPSI-IV/WASI-II), attention/processing speed (CogState™), executive function (BRIEF-P/BRIEF2/BRIEF-A), mood and behavior (BASC-3), and adaptive behavior (ABAS-3). Assessments will include objective tests as well as parent and patient self-report rating scales. Z scores will be derived from published general population norms for each instrument and analyzed to develop hemophilia population specific norms. Secondary analysis for predictors of outcome will include regression modeling and chi-square tests of top vs bottom quartile responses.

Summary:

Initiated in the early 1990s under Centers for Disease Control, Maternal and Child Health Bureau, and National Institutes of Health, the Hemophilia Growth and Development Study (HGDS) evaluated the impact of hemophilia on neurodevelopment, executive function, and intelligence. The 4-year observational study enrolled 333 patients from 14 US centers, aged 6-18 years at baseline (62% HIV+), who underwent annual/semi-annual comprehensive assessments including neurologic examination, neuroimaging (MRI), and neuropsychological assessment. Results suggested that hemophilia and HIV had independent effects at baseline and follow-up. Baseline neurologic examination findings were common, as were progressive abnormalities of gait/coordination. Imaging showed baseline CNS bleeds in 12% of patients and new CNS bleeds (2% per year), which often occurred in the absence of reported head trauma. HIV+ children were more likely to show lower scores on neuropsychological assessments. Academic/adaptive skills were lower than expected based on mean IQ, and more behavioral/emotional problems were seen, including attention abnormalities related to known/silent CNS bleeds. There was a large shift in mean scores in IQ and achievement for the children with more severe hemophilia. Six small studies published between 1996 and 2009 reported impacts on academic achievement, attention, and behavior.

Conclusions:

HGDS established 25 years ago that hemophilia and HIV have independent effects on cognitive and behavioral function in children with hemophilia. Since then, standards of care in hemophilia treatment have changed significantly, but no follow-up studies have investigated whether these changes have affected the profile of neurocognitive outcomes in hemophilia. We therefore designed the eTHINK study to provide valuable insights into whether subgroups of children and young adults with hemophilia remain at risk for impaired neuropsychological outcomes.

Objective:

We sought to explore real-world outcomes, such as annualized bleeding rate (ABR) and markers of adherence, in persons with hemophilia A (PwHA) or with hemophilia B (PwHB) who receive standard half-life (SHL) or extended half-life (EHL) factor VIII (FVIII) or factor IX (FIX) replacement products.

Methods:

We analyzed de-identified data from the Adelphi Disease Specific Programme (DSP) database, a patient health record–based survey of hematologists in the US and 5 European countries (France, Germany, Italy, Spain and the UK). Data were collected from May–November 2017 for male patients with moderate or severe HA or HB. Outcomes in the two groups of patients (SHL vs EHL) were compared and descriptive statistics were used to summarize results.

Summary:

A sample of 595 patients with HA or HB met the inclusion criteria (US, n=123; Europe, n=472). Age, weight, and body mass index (BMI) were similar between SHL and EHL groups for PwHA and PwHB on both continents. Higher ABR was noted consistently in Europe vs the US. Hemophilia A: Analysis included 101 patients from the US (SHL, n=64; EHL, n=37) and 360 patients from Europe (SHL, n=340; EHL, n=20). The ABR was similar between both groups on both continents (median: US, 1.0 SHL and 1.0 EHL; Europe, 1.0 SHL and 1.5 EHL; mean: US, 1.3 SHL and 1.2 EHL, P=0.68; Europe, 1.8 SHL and 1.7 EHL, P=0.76). The mean of the physician-reported ‘number of doses missed of the last 10 doses’ appeared to be numerically higher in the EHL vs the SHL group in the US (mean: 0.4 SHL and 1.6 EHL, P=0.13), whereas in Europe, the trend was reversed (mean: 0.7 SHL and 0.0 EHL, P=0.29). Hemophilia B: Analysis included 22 patients from the US (10 SHL; 12 EHL) and 112 patients from Europe (91 SHL; 21 EHL). The median ABR for PwHA and PwHB in the US was 1.0 (SHL) and 1.0 (EHL), and the mean was 1.6 SHL and 0.8 EHL (P=0.25); in Europe, the median ABR was 2.0 SHL and 1.0 EHL, and the mean was 2.2 SHL and 1.6 EHL, P=0.25. The mean of the physician-reported ‘number of doses missed of the last 10 doses’ was 0.8 SHL and 0.5 EHL (P=0.63) in the US and 0.6 SHL and 0.1 EHL (P=0.33) in Europe.

Conclusions:

These preliminary real-world data, unadjusted for treatment regimen and inclusive of US and ex-US sampling, showed no clinically meaningful difference in ABR or adherence markers in PwHA or PwHB who received SHL versus EHL FVIII or FIX products. These observations may challenge assumptions regarding adherence and or clinical outcomes associated with SHL/EHL product selection among PwHA and PwHB. Further analyses should be explored.

Per Dr. Kumar, the JGP Fellowship has enabled him to test his ideas related to factor V biology. It has facilitated his scientific training to become increasingly independent in the planning and execution of his research. Important to note, findings generated from these studies have provided new concepts and tools to target factor V for therapeutic purposes. After the completion of his award in 2018, Dr. Kumar would like to continue his career in the field of hematology.

Dr. Megan Rost is a postdoctoral fellow at the University of Michigan. She received a B.S in biochemistry and biotechnology from Michigan State University, and her Ph.D. in molecular and developmental biology at the University of Cincinnati - Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center. Her graduate work focused on understanding vascular endothelial development using zebrafish as a model organism. In July 2015, she joined the lab of Dr. Jordan Shavit in the Department of Pediatrics and Hematology/Oncology at University of Michigan. For her 2016 JGP research fellowship project, she will be using the zebrafish model to analyze blood clot structure and function in the presence and absence of von Willebrand Factor. In studying this, Dr. Rost will be elucidating how arterial thrombus formation occurs in the absence of VWF, aiding in uncovering possible new therapeutic targets for VWD treatment.

Introduction and Objectives:

Von Willebrand disease (VWD) is the most common bleeding disorder, affecting men and women equally. Despite this, awareness surrounding VWD is low. Outreach efforts often only target women, leaving many to assume VWD does not affect men. To begin changing this perception, the National Hemophilia Foundation (NHF) conducted a needs assessment to understand men’s awareness of VWD and experience getting a diagnosis for future programming.

Materials and Methods:

On behalf of NHF, The Harris Poll conducted a nationally representative online survey. From 2015 to 2016 1,002 adult men in the US were interviewed to learn about their health behaviors and awareness of VWD. A second online survey was conducted by NHF targeting men who were diagnosed with VWD to learn about their path to diagnosis and the impact of VWD on their lives. This survey was given to adult men in the US from 2016 to 2017 and 49 responses were included in the analysis.

Results:

The Harris Poll found that only 28% of men say they are aware of VWD and 68% are not sure of the symptoms. Medical providers (69%) are the main sources the men turned to for information about their health, followed by internet sources (40%). The second survey found an average of 8 years from first symptoms to final diagnosis, with almost 60% of respondents diagnosed at 18 years of age and older. When asked what motivated them to seek medical care, 45% cited a significant bleeding incident. Over half reported limitations to work, physical and social activity. Medical providers were one of the most common sources of information and support for men with VWD and the first place men went for information.

Conclusion:

More awareness of VWD is needed and outreach focused online and to medical providers. Diagnosed men need more education and support surrounding their disorder. NHF will continue to pursue outreach efforts and creation of resources for men with VWD.

Objective:

We conducted a pilot study using a single open-ended question to elicit patient-perceived challenges and management strategies in individuals with bleeding disorders. The de-identified responses and themes expressed in this study were analyzed. The identification of perceived challenges and management strategies in individuals with bleeding disorders offers the opportunity to improve value based care.

Methods:

This retrospective, cross-sectional cohort study used a sample of convenience at The Hemophilia Center at OHSU. Study population included 20 participants. Inclusion criteria included: ages seven to eighty nine, diagnosed with a bleeding disorder and seen during any outpatient Hemophilia Center clinic visit between March 1, 2017 and April 30, 2018. Participants were included if, during the course of their clinical care, they answered the question, “What is the most significant (or greatest) challenge you have in managing your bleeding disorder and what do you do about it?” Data extracted included question response, age, type and severity of bleeding disorder. Responses were analyzed for themes by the investigators and using qualitative data analysis software. Coded demographic data was correlated.

Summary:

Seven challenge themes were identified: activity restrictions, infusions, emotion/stress, pain, future plans, education and access. Management themes included: self-advocacy, parent directed, activity modification or avoidance, acceptance, inquiry, asking for assistance, planning ahead, resiliency, and peer supports. Younger participants’ (9-17 years) challenges included activity restriction and infusions with management strategies of self-advocacy, activity avoidance and modification. Participants aged 18-57 years highlighted challenges with access to care, infusions, emotion/stress, pain, education and future planning. Management strategies in this group were focused on acceptance, planning ahead, peer support and resiliency. Analysis based on severity of bleeding disorder revealed that subjects with severe hemophilia reported infusions and activity restriction as their most significant challenge, with self-advocacy and activity modification management strategies. Participants with moderate hemophilia reported challenges centered on activity restriction and education of peers, with management strategies being self-advocacy and planning ahead. There were no differences in themes identified when analyzed based on type of bleeding disorder.

Conclusions:

This study characterizes the unique challenges and management strategies described by individuals with bleeding disorders. The themes highlighted the importance of patient voice and can be used to inform individual care decisions.

Objective:

Patient satisfaction with healthcare services is a measure of patient centeredness, influences treatment adherence, and increasingly affects reimbursement. In 2018, the US Hemophilia Treatment Center Network (USHTCN) launched the second national Patient Satisfaction Survey (PSS).

Methods:

A Steering Committee and Regional HTC Coordinator work group updated, piloted, and finalized the two-page survey for patient self-administration online, at clinic, or at home, in English or Spanish, and mailed to households. Survey content and format were based on national health surveys to enhance comparability and scientific robustness. Questions included assessed patient demographics, satisfaction with team members, and care processes aligned with HRSA goals. An open ended question sought qualitative data. Respondents were anonymous but the HTC where they received care was identified. Participation was voluntary. Persons with genetic bleeding disorders who had HTC contact in 2017 were eligible. Since March 2018, HTCs sent surveys to approximately 31,650 households. Parents were asked to complete surveys for children under age 15. No reminders were sent. Data were entered and analyzed at a central site and aggregated at national, regional and HTC levels. Survey remains open through summer 2018.

Results:

4042 individuals (12.8%) from 125 (90%) of the 139 Centers in the USHTCN returned surveys by June 12, 2018. National analyses on 4042 surveys reveal that 93% - 98% were ‘always’ or ‘usually’ satisfied with HTC care processes: shared decision making (97%); care coordination (97%); obtaining understandable information (97%); getting timely services (95%); enough time with staff (97%); being treated respectfully (98%); and HTC Factor Program/Pharmacy (340b) (96%). 95% - 97% were ‘always’ or ‘usually’ satisfied with core HTC team members. 91% of 12-17 year olds were ‘always’ or ‘usually’ satisfied with HTC encouragement regarding becoming more independent, and 92% with how the HTC discussed caring for a bleeding disorder upon reaching adulthood. Insurance and language were ‘always’ or ‘usually’ a problem for 14% and 9% respectively. 31% of respondents were female and 10% Hispanic. 80% were Caucasian, 5% African-American, 4% Asian/Pacific Islander or Native Hawaiian, 4% Multiple races, and 7% did not respond. Over 60% had severe or moderate FVIII or FIX deficiency or VWD Type 3. Ages ranged from newborns to over 90 years: 37% under 18, 18% age 18 – 34, and 45% over age 35.

Conclusions:

Implementing a National Patient Satisfaction Survey for the USHTCN remains feasible, is supported by HTCs nationally, and provides valuable information. Satisfaction with HTC services including 340B pharmacy is high. Insurance and language pose problems for 9-14%. Future analyses will examine additional national data and regional variation, and identify trends from the first national PSS conducted in 2014.

Objective:

In the PROTECT VIII phase 2/3 trial, the extended–half-life recombinant factor VIII product BAY 94-9027 provided effective bleed protection with twice-weekly, every-5th-day, and every-7th-day prophylaxis for 36 weeks. Herein, we report interim efficacy data from the PROTECT VIII extension study in patients receiving BAY 94-9027 prophylaxis for up to 5.4 years.

Methods:

In the PROTECT VIII trial, previously treated males aged 12 to 65 years with severe hemophilia A received BAY 94-9027 for 36 weeks on demand or for prophylaxis either twice weekly (30–40 IU/kg), every 5 days (45–60 IU/kg), or every 7 days (60 IU/kg). Patients could continue in the extension study using the same or a different regimen. Bleeds were recorded in electronic patient diaries, and annualized bleeding rates (ABRs) were calculated.

Summary:

Of 134 patients enrolled in PROTECT VIII, 121 patients aged 15 to 67 years (median age, 40 years) at the data cutoff (January 2018) continued in the extension with either on-demand treatment (n=14) or prophylaxis (n=107). At the time of analysis, patients had spent a median of 3.9 years (range, 297–1965 days) in the study since enrollment, with a median of 223 (range, 23–563) exposure days. Median (quartile [Q] 1; Q3) ABR for total bleeds during the extension study was 34.1 (20.3; 36.6) for on-demand patients and 1.6 (0.3; 4.6) for prophylaxis patients. Median (Q1; Q3) ABR for joint bleeds was 0.9 (0; 3.3) for prophylaxis patients during the extension. Median (Q1; Q3) ABR for total bleeds during the extension was similar for patients receiving prophylaxis twice weekly (1.7 [0.8; 3.6]; n=23), every 5 days (1.2 [0; 4.6]; n=33), and every 7 days (0.7 [0; 1.6]; n=23); among patients who switched prophylaxis frequency during the extension (n=28), total ABR was 3.1 (1.2; 6.2). Compared with the main study, ABR during the extension was further reduced in patients who remained in their treatment arm, including patients receiving prophylaxis every 7 days (median [Q1; Q3] main study ABR for total bleeds, 0.96 [0; 4.3]) . Of patients receiving prophylaxis, 20.6% had zero bleeds during the extension. No safety issues were identified.

Conclusions:

Good bleeding control was maintained with BAY 94-9027 prophylaxis with extended intervals of every 5 days and every 7 days throughout the PROTECT VIII extension study for up to >5 years.

Objective:

BAY 94-9027 is an extended–half-life recombinant factor VIII (FVIII) product. In the PROTECT VIII study, BAY 94-9027 provided effective protection against bleeds and was well tolerated with twice-weekly, every-5-day, and every-7-day prophylaxis in patients with severe hemophilia A. We report interim safety data from the PROTECT VIII extension study evaluating long-term outcomes in patients using BAY 94-9027 prophylaxis for >5 years .

Methods:

Previously treated patients aged 12 to 65 years with severe hemophilia A were enrolled in PROTECT VIII, in which they received BAY 94-9027 for 36 weeks on demand or as twice-weekly (30–40 IU/kg), every-5-day (45–60 IU/kg), or every-7-day (60 IU/kg) prophylaxis. Patients could subsequently participate in an extension study with the same or a different regimen. Adverse events (AEs), anti-PEG antibodies, inhibitor development, renal safety, and plasma PEG levels were evaluated during the extension phase.

Summary:

One hundred twenty-one of 134 patients from PROTECT VIII continued in the extension study receiving BAY 94-9027 either on demand (n=14) or as prophylaxis (n=107). At data cutoff (January 2018), patients aged 15 to 67 years at time of analysis (median age, 40 y) had a median (range) of 1420 (297–1965) days in the trial since enrollment and a median (range) of 223 (23–563) exposure days . Prophylaxis patients were treated either twice weekly (n=23), every 5 days (n=33), every 7 days (n=23), or switched frequency during the extension (n=28) . Overall, 9 patients (7.4%) experienced treatment-related AEs during the extension classified as either mild (n=4), moderate (n=4), or severe (n=1) . Two patients (1.7%) experienced 3 SAEs considered to be treatment-related (elevated liver function tests in a patient with hepatitis C ; 2 incidences of back pain); these 2 patients discontinued the study. Transient low-titer anti-PEG antibodies were detected at a single visit in 8 patients but were not associated with clinical events. No patients developed FVIII inhibitors or had sustained levels of detectable PEG in plasma . No specific changes in renal parameters were observed.

Conclusions:

During the ongoing PROTECT VIII extension, BAY 94-9027 prophylaxis was well tolerated for >5 years, and no patients developed FVIII inhibitors.