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Background: The impact of nonneutralizing antibodies (NNAs) in moderate hemophilia is elusive., Objectives: To explore the presence of NNAs in Nordic persons with moderate hemophilia A (MHA) and B (MHB) in relation to treatment modality, clinical outcome, history of inhibitor, and the corresponding factor VIII (FVIII)/factor IX (FIX) gene mutation., Methods: A cross-sectional multicenter study covering persons with MHA and MHB in Sweden, Finland, and Norway. Inhibitors were analyzed with the Bethesda assay, and NNAs were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay., Results: Plasma samples from 137 MoHem study participants (median age 29 years; Q1-Q3, 15-54) were analyzed. NNAs were present in 11 of 82 (13%) of people with MHA and 7 of 55 (13%) of those with MHB irrespective of prophylactic or on-demand treatment, most frequently after 150 exposure days (EDs). Three NNA positive patients had a history of high-titer inhibitor, but current analyses were negative (<0.6 BU/mL). Baseline FVIII/FIX activity was similar among NNA positive and negative patients. Current bleeding rates were low, but patients with NNAs captured a higher Hemophilia Joint Health Score (7 [median]; Q1-Q3, 3-20 vs. 4; 1-9) ( P  = .02) and had more frequently undergone arthroplasty or arthrodesis (5 [33%] vs. 15 [13%]) ( P  = .03)., Conclusion: NNAs were detected in 13% of Nordic persons with MHA and MHB, most frequently after 150 EDs. Patients with NNAs had more severe hemophilic arthropathy than patients without NNAs. The relationship between NNAs and clinical outcome in hemophilia should be further explored in a large cohort including pharmacokinetics and longitudinal observations with repeated blood sampling., (© 2024 The Author(s).)

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., (© 2023 The Authors. Haemophilia published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Introduction: The timing of prophylaxis and F8 genotype can impact treatment outcomes in adults with severe haemophilia A (HA)., Aim: To investigate how F8 genotype, timing, and type of prophylaxis influence arthropathy, bleeding rates, factor consumption and health-related quality of life (HRQoL)., Methods: Thirty-eight patients with severe HA were enrolled. Bleeding events were recorded retrospectively during median 12.5 months. F8 gene variants were classified as null or non-null. Joint health and HRQoL were assessed with HJHS and EQ-5D-5L, respectively., Results: The median age at prophylaxis start was 1.25 years in the primary prophylaxis group (N = 15, median age 26 years) and 31.5 years in the secondary group (N = 22, 45 years), respectively. There were significant differences in the medians of HJHS (4 vs. 20, p < .001), EQ-5D-5L index (0.9647 vs. 0.904, p = .022), EQ VAS (87 vs. 75, p = .01) and FVIII consumption (3883 vs. 2737 IU/kg/year, p = .02), between the primary and secondary groups, respectively. Median annualized bleeding rate (ABR) was 0 for both groups. Twenty-five null and thirteen non-null F8 gene variants were identified. In the secondary prophylaxis group, lower median FVIII consumption (1926 vs. 3370 IU/kg/year) was shown for non-null compared to null variants, respectively, with similar ABR and HJHS., Conclusion: Delayed prophylaxis start with intermediate dose intensity prevents bleeds but at a cost of more arthropathy and reduced HRQoL, compared to higher intensity primary prophylaxis. Non-null F8 genotype may allow lower factor consumption with similar HJHS and bleeding rates, compared to null genotype., (© 2023 The Authors. Haemophilia published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Introduction: Good health-related quality of life (HRQoL) is an important goal in the treatment of persons with haemophilia B (PwHB). Studies focusing on this population are limited, however, and data are insufficient., Aim: To assess the HRQoL in PwHB and to compare this to data on persons with haemophilia A (PwHA), as well as to evaluate the impact of joint health on HRQoL and to identify areas of insufficient care., Methods: The B-NORD study enrolled persons with severe haemophilia B and matched controls with haemophilia A. HRQoL was assessed using the EQ-5D-3L questionnaire and joint health using Haemophilia Joint Health Score 2.1 (HJHS)., Results: The EQ-5D-3L was completed by 63 PwHB and 63 PwHA. Mobility problems were reported by 46% of PwHB and 44% of PwHA, pain/discomfort by 62% and 56%, and anxiety/depression by 33% and 17%, respectively. No significant difference was observed between PwHA and PwHB in EQ-5D profiles, level sum score, EQ-5D index (PwHB mean .80, PwHA mean .83, p = .24), or EQ VAS score (PwHB: mean 70, PwHA: mean 77, p = .061). Linear regression adjusted for age demonstrated that an increase in HJHS score was associated with a significant decrease in both EQ-5D index (B -.003, R 2 .22) and EQ VAS score (B -.37, R 2 .17)., Conclusion: Despite the majority of patients being treated with prophylaxis, impaired HRQoL was reported in both PwHB and PwHA. No differences in HRQoL were found between the two groups. Impaired joint health had a significant negative impact on HRQoL., (© 2023 The Authors. Haemophilia published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Introduction: Debilitating clinical complications in von Willebrand disease (VWD) can affect health-related quality of life (HRQoL), increase healthcare costs and cause long-lasting consequences. However, the magnitude of these burdens needs to be more fully explored., Aim: To estimate the prevalence and burden of clinical complications, the impact on HRQoL and the economic burden associated with VWD., Methods: Embase ® , MEDLINE ® , the Cochrane Library and conference proceedings were searched for studies on VWD evaluating clinical complications, HRQoL and cost and resource use., Results: Among 16 studies assessing clinical complications in VWD, the most prevalent bleeding symptoms were menorrhagia (2%-95% [n = 7 studies]), epistaxis (12%-80% [n = 6]) and easy bruising (46%-65% [n = 2]). Among 17 studies evaluating HRQoL, the most common assessment scales were the generic SF-36 (n = 8 studies) and the EQ-5D (n = 2). Bleeding symptoms were associated with reduced QoL in six of seven studies, and of six studies evaluating treatment impact, four reported improvements in one or more HRQoL components. Among 25 studies on cost and resource use, key observations included higher post-surgery healthcare costs in VWD versus non-VWD patients (n = 1 study) and higher costs and resource use in VWD patients with bleeding complications versus those without (n = 1)., Conclusion: Although limited, available evidence suggests that VWD patients experience a high burden of clinical complications, reduced QoL and high healthcare costs. Haemarthrosis is more common in severe VWD than is often assumed, and bleeds (including haemarthrosis) can reduce QoL. Research efforts to improve QoL and other outcomes should be prioritized., (© 2022 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Von Willebrand disease (VWD) is an inherited bleeding disorder caused by quantitative or qualitative deficiencies in von Willebrand factor (VWF). People with VWD may experience excessive, recurrent or prolonged bleeding, particularly during menstruation, childbirth, surgery or following trauma. However, many VWD patients are undiagnosed, and therefore inadequately treated. Reasons for the underdiagnosis of VWD include its relatively mild symptoms, complex diagnosis, lack of awareness among non-specialist healthcare providers and the general population, and a lack of prioritisation of disorders disproportionately affecting females. The vwdtest.com platform was launched as part of a global initiative to raise awareness and improve diagnosis of VWD. Besides providing VWD-specific educational resources, the website includes an online bleeding self-assessment tool and offers diagnostic support for individuals, and their providers, who have a score suggestive of a bleeding disorder. vwdtest.com helps to address these unmet needs, especially in regions with limited access to educational and diagnostic resources., Competing Interests: Declaration of Competing Interest FFCM has received grant/research support from Bayer and Octapharma, and honoraria or consultation fees from Bayer, Octapharma and Sanofi. ABF has received research support from Baxalta/Shire/Takeda, CSL-Behring, and honoraria or consultation fees from Baxalta/Takeda, CSL Behring, Grifols, Kedrion, LFB and Octapharma. AS has no competing interests to declare. CMM has received research support from Baxter/Takeda, CSL Behring and Grifols and honoraria or consultation fees from CSL Behring, LFB, Octapharma and Takeda. She has participated in advisory boards for Takeda and CSL Behring. JCR has disclosed receiving research support from Takeda and Genentech. He has participated in advisory boards for Sanofi Genzyme, Takeda, Octapharma, Novo Nordisk, Pfizer, and CSL Behring. He is on speaker bureaus for Sanofi Genzyme, Novo Nordisk, Octapharma, and Takeda. AD has no competing interests to declare. JJ received an unrestricted educational grant from Octapharma. EB has received grant/research support from Bayer, Baxalta/Takeda, CSL Behring and Sobi, and honoraria or consultation fees from Bayer, Baxalta/Takeda, CSL Behring and Octapharma., (Copyright © 2022. Published by Elsevier Ltd.)

Introduction: As people with haemophilia (PWH) receive better treatment and live longer they are more likely to encounter cardiovascular disease (CVD) and other comorbidities. ESC guidelines for the acute management of patients presenting with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) are based on the non-haemophilia population., Aim: To review the guidelines and propose relevant adaptations for PWHA without inhibitors who are treated with prophylaxis and present with ACS., Methods: As part of the ADVANCE Group, 20 European haemophilia experts used a modified Delphi approach to develop and gain consensus on proposed adaptations of the ESC guidelines for PWHA without inhibitors., Results: Of the 32 Class I recommendations across both guidelines, adaptions were considered necessary and proposed for 15. The adaptions highlight the need to provide sufficient FVIII trough levels at the time of antithrombotic treatment in people with haemophilia A (HA) without inhibitors. Patients receiving emicizumab prophylaxis and requiring oral anticoagulation therapy or combined single antiplatelet plus oral anticoagulation therapy will require additional FVIII replacement therapy., Conclusion: In the absence of high-quality clinical evidence, the combined expert opinion used to develop these adaptions to the current ESC guidelines may help to guide clinicians in their treatment decisions when a PWHA presents with ACS., (© 2022 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Introduction: In factor VIII (FVIII) prophylaxis for haemophilia A, cost comparisons have used price per international unit (IU) based on the once reasonable assumption of equivalent outcome per IU. Now, with several extended half-life (EHL) products available, new outcome-oriented ways to compare products are needed. Area under the curve (AUC) quantifies FVIII levels over time after infusion providing comparable data., Aim: To develop a decision analytical model for making indirect comparisons of FVIII replacement products based on AUC., Methods: A literature search identified 11 crossover studies with relevant pharmacokinetic data. A common comparator FVIII level curve was calculated using pooled data from selected studies. Absolute curves for other products were estimated based on relative differences to the common comparator (% difference vs the anchor). Three scenarios were investigated: (1) Kogenate ® versus Kovaltry ® and Jivi ® ; (2) Advate ® versus Elocta ® , NovoEight ® , Kovaltry, Adynovate ® , Afstyla ® , and ReFacto ® ; and (3) Jivi versus Elocta, Adynovate, and Kogenate. Sensitivity analyses investigated effects of assay type and dose., Results: In scenario 1, Jivi (+50%) and Kovaltry (+14%) showed larger AUCs versus Kogenate. In scenario 2, EHL products, Elocta and Adynovate, had the largest AUC (+64% and +58%, respectively) versus Advate. Compared with all other products in scenario 3, Jivi had the largest AUC by +13%-28%., Conclusion: This analysis concludes that EHL products differ in relative AUC, have a larger AUC compared with standard half-life, and thus, different FVIII levels over time after infusion. This model may aid decision makers in the absence of head-to-head data., (© 2022 The Authors. Haemophilia published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Introduction: People with non-severe haemophilia appear to be under-treated in many countries, and this may lead to joint damage and worsen quality of life., Aim: To review literature for clotting factor replacement prophylaxis in people with non-severe haemophilia A and B (HA/HB) in relation to long-term outcomes to support clinical decision-making., Methods: A targeted literature search was performed to identify studies published between 2000 and 2021 that included prophylaxis in people with non-severe HA/HB and long-term outcomes, including annualized bleeding rates, joint health and quality of life., Results: Although eligible articles included 2737 and 2272 people with mild or moderate HA, respectively, only 22% (n = 609) and 29% (n = 668) reported treatment regimens. A total of 549 people with moderate HA were treated with factor replacement prophylaxis and were from high-income countries. On the contrary, nearly all people with mild HA received desmopressin (n = 599). Details of treatment regimens for women with haemophilia and people with HB were sparse. Three studies provided long-term outcomes for people with moderate haemophilia who received prophylaxis with factor concentrate, supporting early prophylaxis in people with a frequent bleeding phenotype regardless of their endogenous clotting factor level to preserve joint health., Conclusion: There remain large knowledge gaps when considering how to provide optimal treatment for people with non-severe haemophilia. Nonetheless, there is a strong rationale that prophylaxis should be considered early in life according to similar strategies as for severe haemophilia for those with a frequent severe bleeding phenotype., (© 2022 The Authors. Haemophilia published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Introduction: The development of inhibitory antibodies (inhibitors) in persons with hemophilia B (PwHB) causes significant morbidity. Data on the impact of the F9 variant and immune tolerance induction (ITI) outcome are limited. The aim of this study was to investigate the presence of neutralizing and non-neutralizing antibodies (NNA) in severe hemophilia B (HB) and to evaluate ITI outcome and complications in relation to the pathogenic F9 variant., Materials and Methods: Persons with severe HB in the Nordic countries were enrolled and information on F9 variants, inhibitors, ITI and complications were collected. Analyses of anti-FIX antibodies with a fluorescence-immunoassay (xFLI) and an ELISA method were conducted., Results: Seventy-nine PwHB were enrolled. Null variants were seen in 33 (42 %) PwHB and 12 (15 %) had a current or former inhibitor. Eleven (92 %) of the inhibitor patients had experienced allergic manifestations and three (25 %) nephrotic syndrome. Of 10 PwHB with at least one ITI attempt, eight (80 %) were considered tolerant at enrolment. Immunosuppression was included in seven of eight successful or partially successful attempts. Five PwHB had at least one ITI failure before a successful or partially successful ITI. No NNA could be identified., Conclusion: A high proportion of severe F9 gene defects among persons with severe HB in the Nordic countries may explain the observed relatively high prevalence of inhibitors. ITI success was independent of the F9 variant and attained despite allergic manifestations and previous ITI failures. Inclusion of immunosuppression tentatively enhances the chances of ITI success. No NNA were observed., (Copyright © 2022. Published by Elsevier Ltd.)

Introduction: The sixth Åland Islands Conference on von Willebrand disease (VWD) on the Åland Islands, Finland, was held from 20 to 22 September 2018., Aim: The meeting brought together experts in the field of VWD from around the world to share the latest advances and knowledge in VWD., Results and Discussion: The topics covered both clinical aspects of disease management, and biochemical and laboratory insights into the disease. The clinical topics discussed included epidemiology, diagnosis and treatment of VWD in different countries, management of children with VWD, bleeding control during surgery, specific considerations for the management of type 3 VWD and bleeding control in women with VWD. Current approaches to the management of acquired von Willebrand syndrome were also discussed. Despite significant advances in the understanding and therapeutic options for VWD, there remain many challenges to be overcome in order to optimise patient care. In comparison with haemophilia A, there are very few registries of VWD patients, which would be a valuable source of data on the condition and its management. VWD is still underdiagnosed, and many patients suffer recurrent or severe bleeding that could be prevented. Awareness of VWD among healthcare practitioners, including non-haematologists, should be improved to allow timely diagnosis and intervention. Diagnosis remains challenging, and the development of fast, simple assays may help to facilitate accurate and rapid diagnosis of VWD., (© 2022 The Authors. Haemophilia published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Introduction: The B-Natural study is a multicentre, multinational, observational study of haemophilia B (HB) designed to increase understanding of clinical manifestations, treatment and quality of life (QoL)., Aim: To characterise and compare QoL in HB across disease severity groups and individuals with inhibitors to identify gaps in treatment., Methods: A total of 224 individuals from 107 families were enrolled from a total of 24 centres in North America (n = 16), Europe (n = 7) and Asia (n = 1). Of these, 68 (30.4%) subjects had severe (<1 IU/dL), median age 15.6 years, 114 (50.9%) moderate (1-5 IU/dL), age 13.3 years, and 42 (18.8%) mild (>5-< 40 IU/dL), age 12.1 years, disease. Twenty-nine participants had inhibitors or a history of inhibitors. Three versions of the EQ-5D instrument were used as a measure of QoL: proxy (ages 4-7), youth (ages 8-15) and self (age 16+). Each instrument included a visual analogue scale ranging from 100 (best health) to 0 (worst health) to assess current day's health (EQ VAS). Range-of-motion (ROM) for elbows, knees and ankles was assessed using a four-point scale, from which a composite score was calculated., Results: In all severity groups, a proportion of subjects showed less than optimal QoL. The majority of the mild and moderate severe participants reported a normal EQ-5D health profile (79% and 72%, respectively), whereas about half (47%) of the severe participants and only 13% of the inhibitor participants reported this profile., Conclusion: The B-Natural study reveals impacted QoL in all disease severities of HB including those with inhibitors. Unmet needs remain and include nonsevere HB., (© 2022 The Authors. Haemophilia published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Introduction: Treatment optimization in haemophilia A can be achieved by choice of FVIII product and knowledge of pharmacokinetics (PK), phenotype and adherence. A favourable PK profile of BAY 81-8973 (octocog alfa) (Kovaltry, Bayer AB) compared to other standard half-life (SHL) FVIII products has been suggested., Aim: To evaluate whether the switch to BAY 81-8973, using the same dosing schedule, impact factor consumption and bleed rates, taking arthropathy and adherence into account METHODS: Forty patients on prophylaxis with SHL (median age 40.5 years) attending the haemophilia treatment centres in Malmö and Oslo were enrolled. The annualised bleeding rate (ABR) and joint bleeding rate (AJBR) before and after the switch to BAY 81-8973 was calculated. PK analyses were performed with WAPPS-Hemo. Joint health status and treatment adherence were assessed., Results: The median ABR and AJBR was 0 before and after the switch, at both centres. The median yearly factor consumption was 3,345 IU/Kg/year in the entire study group corresponding to intermediate-intensity prophylaxis in most patients and with significantly more used in Malmö (3,862 IU/Kg/year), compared to Oslo (2,337 IU/Kg/year) (P .006). There was no correlation between arthropathy and bleeding. The median BAY 81-8973 t½ was 15.15 h (range 7.5-29 h), with significant correlation to VWF levels, and 13.4 h after exclusion of VWF outliers. Adherence to treatment was 97%., Conclusions: Concentrate switch, using mainly intermediate-intensity regimens with high adherence rates, preserves excellent prophylaxis outcome using standard half-life FVIII products, indicating the value of individualized prophylaxis and close follow-up., (© 2022 The Authors. Haemophilia published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Introduction: The emergence of durable and potentially curative cell and gene therapies (also known as advanced therapy medicinal products) with high price tags is challenging conventional health care payment systems. Among these are gene therapies in various phases of development for haemophilia A and B. The emergence of these therapies comes with clinical and economic uncertainties for payers, providers, patients, and manufacturers. These include uncertainties about expression of the intended physiological response, patient outcomes, and duration of treatment effect, along with potentially high upfront costs, variable additional costs, and uncertainties about uptake of the therapy among indicated patient populations. These clinical and economic uncertainties raise interest among payers, providers, and manufacturers in risk-sharing arrangements, including alternative payment models (APMs)., Summary: APMs differ from traditional fee-for-service payment for health care. For example, some APMs are designed to reward clinicians and provider organizations for delivering high-quality and cost-effective care. The APMs described here, outcomes-based models (or value- or performance-based models) and finance-based models, are designed to mitigate or otherwise manage financial risks associated with health care payment, including instances in which patient outcomes for costly therapies are uncertain. We examine how such APMs may be applicable in the context of emerging gene therapies for haemophilia A, including considerations in determining whether any particular APM may be most suitable., Key Points of Consideration: Gene therapies for haemophilia are among the emerging durable and potentially curative cell and gene therapies with high price tags that are challenging conventional payment systems. These therapies present clinical and economic uncertainties for payers, providers, patients, and manufacturers, including regarding expression of the intended physiological response, duration of treatment effect, patient outcomes, potentially high upfront costs and variable additional costs, and uptake among potentially indicated, diverse patient subgroups. These uncertainties raise interest among payers, manufacturers, and providers in risk-sharing arrangements, including alternative payment models (APMs) such as various outcomes-based and finance-based models. This paper describes a taxonomy of APMs. Then, for the particular context of gene therapy for haemophilia A, we present a set of factors to be considered when determining whether an APM risk-sharing arrangement may be appropriate for a given gene therapy, and, if so, which APM may be most suitable. [Correction added on 21 February 2022, after first online publication: the 'Key Points of Consideration' have been added in this version.]., (© 2022 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

The classical goals of haemophilia A treatment are to prevent bleeds, minimise the risk of long-term complications associated with joint damage, and improve quality of life by maintaining appropriate factor VIII [FVIII] levels. The dose and frequency of FVIII replacement therapies required to reduce bleeds is now known to vary amongst individuals, and may change for the same individual over time, meaning that a standardised dose and regimen may not provide optimal protection to all patients. Here we review the evolving treatment landscape for haemophilia A, and discuss how an increased understanding of the pharmacology and pharmacokinetics underlying FVIII replacement and non-factor replacement therapies could improve patient outcomes. We also review the strengths and weaknesses of current treatments and explore the benefits of personalised therapy and review how this may best be achieved with current treatment options. The key points of our review are summarised in the accompanying short video., (Copyright © 2021. Published by Elsevier Ltd.)

Introduction: Inhibitors develop less frequently in haemophilia B (HB) than haemophilia A (HA). However, when present, the success of tolerization by immune tolerance induction (ITI) therapy is lower and the risk of complications higher., Aim: To evaluate the use and outcome of ITI in patients with HB and inhibitors., Methods: Subjects include singletons or siblings with a current/history of inhibitors enrolled in B-Natural-an observational study designed to increase understanding of clinical management of patients with HB. Patients were followed for 6 months and information on demographics, medical and social history, and treatment were recorded., Results: Twenty-nine patients with severe HB and inhibitors were enrolled in 24 centres. Twenty-two underwent one or more courses of ITI with or without immune suppression. Eight patients (36.4%) were successfully tolerized after the first course of ITI. One of these successes (12.5%) experienced allergic manifestations, whereas the corresponding number for the 10 treatment failures was five (50%). One of seven (14.2%) patients with large deletions and three of eight (37.5%) with nonsense mutations were tolerized at the first attempt, and all patients experiencing nephrosis either failed or were on-going. At study end, 11 (50%) were considered successfully tolerized after one or more ITI courses, three were unsuccessful, and eight were still undergoing treatment., Conclusion: Our data underscore the possibilities and difficulties of achieving tolerization in patients with HB with inhibitors. The type of mutation and complications appear to correlate with ITI outcome, but more accurate definitions of successful ITI are warranted., (© 2021 The Authors. Haemophilia published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Introduction: Predicting the bleeding phenotype is crucial for the management of patients with moderate haemophilia. Global coagulation assays evaluate haemostasis more comprehensively than conventional methods., Aim: To explore global coagulation assays and the bleeding phenotype of patients with moderate haemophilia A (MHA) and B (MHB)., Methods: The MoHem study is a cross-sectional, multicentre study covering Nordic patients with MHA and MHB. Thromboelastometry in whole blood and thrombin generation (TG) in platelet-poor plasma (1, 2.5 and 5 pM tissue factor (TF)) were compared with joint health (Haemophilia Joint Health Score (HJHS)) and treatment modality., Results: We report on 61 patients from Oslo and Helsinki: 24 MHA and 37 MHB. By TG (2.5 pM TF), patients who had been without replacement therapy during the previous 12 months depicted higher endogenous thrombin potential (P = .03). In contrast, those who had low ETP (< median) captured higher HJHS (P = .02). Patients who had undergone orthopaedic surgery generated least thrombin (P = .02). By thromboelastometry, those without the need of factor consumption had short clotting times, and quick times to maximum velocity (< median values) (P = .03). Factor VIII/factor IX activity (FVIII/FIX:C) did not align with the bleeding phenotype, but FIX:C ≤ 3 IU/dL was associated with lower peak thrombin (P = .03)., Conclusion: TG differentiated patients with moderate haemophilia according to HJHS, annual factor consumption, and whether orthopaedic surgery had been performed. Thromboelastometry differentiated according to factor consumption only. Global coagulation assays may assist predicting the bleeding phenotype in moderate haemophilia., (© 2021 The Authors. Haemophilia published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Haemophilia A and B are rare congenital, recessive X-linked disorders caused by lack or deficiency of clotting factor VIII (FVIII) or IX (FIX), respectively. The severity of the disease depends on the reduction of levels of FVIII or FIX, which are determined by the type of the causative mutation in the genes encoding the factors (F8 and F9, respectively). The hallmark clinical characteristic, especially in untreated severe forms, is bleeding (spontaneous or after trauma) into major joints such as ankles, knees and elbows, which can result in the development of arthropathy. Intracranial bleeds and bleeds into internal organs may be life-threatening. The median life expectancy was ~30 years until the 1960s, but improved understanding of the disorder and development of efficacious therapy based on prophylactic replacement of the missing factor has caused a paradigm shift, and today individuals with haemophilia can look forward to a virtually normal life expectancy and quality of life. Nevertheless, the potential development of inhibitory antibodies to infused factor is still a major hurdle to overcome in a substantial proportion of patients. Finally, gene therapy for both types of haemophilia has progressed remarkably and could soon become a reality.

Introduction: Data on outcome in persons with haemophilia B (PwHB) are limited and mainly extrapolated from studies of haemophilia A (HA)., Aim: To characterize treatment outcomes in persons with severe HB in the Nordic region, with a focus on joint health, compared with matched controls with HA., Methods: PwHB attending haemophilia centres in Denmark, Finland, Norway and Sweden were enrolled and matched with controls with HA. Joint assessment using Haemophilia Joint Health Score (HJHS) and ultrasound according to Haemophilia Early Arthropathy Detection protocol (HEAD-US) was conducted. Adherence was evaluated using the Validated Haemophilia Regimen Treatment Adherence Scale (VERITAS)., Results: Seventy-nine males with HB, with median age of 30 years (range 1-75), were enrolled. Eleven patients (14%) had a history of or current inhibitor. Twenty-nine PwHB (37%) reported joint bleeds during the prior year, and 35% had previously undergone joint surgery. Ninety-five per cent were on prophylaxis, and 70% used recombinant concentrates, with a median factor consumption of 3,900 IU/kg/year for standard half-life products. Only two patients had a VERITAS score corresponding to 'non-adherence'. Joint health, assessed with HJHS, showed a significant lower score among PwHB compared with HA controls, explained by a difference in the 18-49 age group, without observed differences in older or younger subgroups. The HEAD-US scores were overall low., Conclusion: The Nordic cohort of PwHB is well treated by prophylaxis, but the goal of zero bleeds for all is not reached. Our findings suggest that patients with severe HB suffer from a milder arthropathy than patients with severe HA., (© 2021 The Authors. Haemophilia published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Introduction: MyPKFiT and the Web-Accessible Population Pharmacokinetic service-Hemophilia (WAPPS-Hemo) are web-based population-based applications developed for helping physicians individualize and optimize replacement therapy. Although MyPKFiT is intended for Octocog alfa and Rurioctocog alfa pegol use only, the WAPPS-Hemo is applicable to all factor VIII concentrates., Aim: To compare MyPKFiT and WAPPS-Hemo as dosing tools for optimizing treatment of patients with severe haemophilia A on regular prophylaxis with Octocog alfa in a real-world setting., Methods: Fourteen patients with severe haemophilia A (median age 30.8 years; range 20-71) were enrolled. The FVIII activity was measured twice after a regular dose of Octocog alfa by the chromogenic and the one-stage assays. PK analyses were performed using each tool and dosing estimations to reach trough levels of 1%, 3% or 5% after 48 h. Findings were calculated and compared., Results: The two PK algorithms yielded similar t½ independent of the type of FVIII assay used. However, there were significant differences in the time to reach 1%, 3% and 5%. The WAPPS-Hemo generated 10-12 h longer time to a trough of 1% and up to 4 h for the troughs of 3% and 5%. Accordingly, the doses estimated by WAPPS-Hemo for a daily regimen were between 28% and 100% of those proposed by MyPKFiT., Conclusions: MyPKFiT and WAPPS-Hemo provided similar half-life estimations for Octocog alfa independent of the FVIII assay used. The doses suggested by WAPPS-Hemo to reach specific troughs were overall lower, which may have implications for treatment optimization., (© 2021 The Authors. Haemophilia published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Introduction: There is limited awareness of von Willebrand disease (VWD), leading to challenges in both diagnosis and defining the optimal treatment approach for these patients. Patients with VWD are typically treated on-demand, with short-term prophylaxis used during surgery. In contrast, early initiation, and long-term use of prophylaxis is the standard of care in patients with severe haemophilia and can be successfully used to prevent joint bleeding and reduce chronic arthropathy., Aim: To provide an understanding of the current evidence for the prophylactic treatment of patients with VWD and compare this to the management of patients with haemophilia., Methods: Review of published literature using a non-systematic search of PubMed and reference lists of sourced articles., Results: The successes seen with prophylaxis in haemophilia provide the rationale for long-term prophylaxis in patients with severe forms of VWD; preventing spontaneous, excessive and sometimes life-threatening bleeding, and reducing chronic joint disease. Currently, there are a few clinical trials assessing the long-term benefits of prophylaxis in VWD, and guidelines for the optimal prophylaxis treatment approach are lacking. Greater attempts to provide comprehensive, long-term care for patients with VWD are needed but still lacking within the community. This review highlights the success of prophylaxis in haemophilia and how this knowledge might be applied and translated to patients with VWD., Conclusions: Lessons can be learned from the use of prophylaxis in haemophilia and prophylaxis should be considered the standard of care for a subgroup of patients with severe VWD., (Copyright © 2021 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.. All rights reserved.)

Introduction: Detection of early arthropathy is crucial for the management of haemophilia, but data on moderate haemophilia are limited. Therefore, we evaluated joint health and treatment modalities in Nordic patients with moderate haemophilia A (MHA) and B (MHB)., Aim: To explore and compare the Haemophilia Early Arthropathy Detection with Ultrasound (HEAD-US) and Haemophilia Joint Health Score (HJHS) to detect early arthropathy in moderate haemophilia., Methods: A cross-sectional, multicentre study covering Nordic patients with MHA and MHB. Arthropathy was evaluated by HEAD-US and HJHS 2.1., Results: We assessed 693 joints in 118 patients. HEAD-US scores (medians [interquartile ranges]) were as follows: elbows 0 points (0-0), knees 0 (0-0) and ankles 0 (0-1). Respectively, by HJHS: elbows 0 (0-1), knees 0 (0-1) and ankles 0 (0-1). Cartilage (14%) and bone (13%) were most commonly affected by HEAD-US. Frequent HJHS findings were crepitus on motion in knees (39%), and loss of flexion (23%) and extension (13%) in ankles. HEAD-US correlated strongly with HJHS (elbows r = .70, knees r = .60 and ankles r = .65), but 24% had discordant scores. Joints with HJHS zero points, 5% captured HEAD-US ≥1 point. Moreover, 26% had HJHS findings without HEAD-US pathology. Notably, 31% of knees had crepitus on motion and normal HEAD-US., Conclusion: Overall, the joints attained low scores implying good joint health. HEAD-US correlated strongly with HJHS. In 5%, HEAD-US detected subclinical pathology. Crepitus on motion was frequently reported despite normal HEAD-US, thus not necessarily reflecting arthropathy. HEAD-US therefore improves the joint assessment in moderate haemophilia., (© 2021 The Authors. Haemophilia published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Introduction: Haemophilia B (HB) is less well studied than haemophilia A (HA); despite similarities between the two inherited bleeding disorders, important differences remain that require further research., Aim: B-Natural is a multi-centre, prospective, observational study of HB, designed to increase understanding of clinical manifestations, treatment, quality-of-life (QoL), inhibitor development, immune tolerance induction (ITI) outcome, renal function and create a biorepository for future investigations., Methods: Participants include sibling pairs/groups without a current/history of inhibitors and singletons or siblings with a current/history of inhibitors followed for six months. Demographics, medical, social history and treatment were recorded. A physical examination including joint range of motion (ROM) was performed; QoL was assessed. Samples were collected for F9 gene mutation, HLA typing, non-inhibitory antibodies and renal function testing., Results: Twenty-four centres enrolled 224 individuals from 107 families including 29 with current/history of inhibitors. Of these, 68, 30.4%, had severe (<1% FIX level of normal); 114, 50.9%, moderate (1%-5%); and 42, 18.8%, mild (>5-<40%) disease. At enrolment, 53.1% had 50 + exposure days to exogenous FIX. Comparison of joint scores showed significant (P < .05) differences between those with severe (with/without inhibitors), and those with moderate/mild disease. The majority with severe disease, 80.0% with current/history of inhibitors and 64.3% of those without, were treated with prophylaxis., Conclusion: B-Natural provides data supporting an increased understanding of HB and its impact throughout life. The need for optimal disease control to normalize physical and psychosocial outcomes is underscored, and further analyses will contribute to an increased understanding of critical issues in HB., (© 2020 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

An open-label, crossover randomized study was performed to compare the pharmacokinetics (PK) of damoctocog alfa pegol and rurioctocog alfa pegol, two recombinant factor VIII (FVIII) products indicated in patients with hemophilia A, both conjugated to polyethylene glycol to reduce clearance and extend time in circulation. Adult patients (N = 18) with severe hemophilia A (FVIII < 1 IU/dL), previously treated with any FVIII product for ≥ 150 exposure days, were randomized to receive a single 50 IU/kg infusion of damoctocog alfa pegol followed by rurioctocog alfa pegol, or vice versa, with ≥ 7-day washout between doses. FVIII activity was measured using the one-stage clotting assay. PK parameters, including area under the curve from time 0 to the last data point (AUC 0-tlast , primary parameter), dose-normalized AUC (AUC norm ), and time to threshold, were calculated based on 11 time points between 0.25 and 120 h post-dose and evaluated using a noncompartmental model. Due to differences in batch-specific vial content used for the study, actual administered median doses were 54.3 IU/kg for damoctocog alfa pegol and 61.4 IU/kg for rurioctocog alfa pegol. Based on actual dosing, a significantly higher geometric mean (coefficient of variation [%CV]) AUC norm was observed for damoctocog alfa pegol (43.8 h kg/dL [44.0]) versus rurioctocog alfa pegol (36.0 h kg/dL [40.1, P < 0.001]). Based on population PK modeling, median time to reach 1 IU/dL was 16 h longer for damoctocog alfa pegol compared with rurioctocog alfa pegol. No adverse events or any immunogenicity signals were observed. Overall, damoctocog alfa pegol had a superior PK profile versus rurioctocog alfa pegol. Trial registration number: NCT04015492 ( ClinicalTrials.gov identifier). Date of registration: July 9, 2019.

Introduction: The prevalence of arthropathy in moderate haemophilia A (MHA) and B (MHB) is not well known., Aim: We evaluated joint health in Nordic patients in relation to their treatment modality., Methods: A cross-sectional, multicentre study covering MHA and MHB in Sweden, Finland and Norway. Arthropathy was evaluated by ultrasound (HEAD-US) and Haemophilia Joint Health Score (HJHS)., Results: We report on 145 patients: median age 28 years (IQR 13-52) and 61% MHA. Baseline factor VIII/factor IX activity (FVIII/FIX:C) was 2 IU/dL (median) (IQR 2-4): lower for MHB (2 IU/dL, IQR 1-2) than MHA (3 IU/dL, IQR 2-4) (P < .01). Eighty-five per cent of MHA and 73% MHB had a history of haemarthrosis (P = .07). Age at first joint bleed was lower for MHA (5 years [median], IQR 3-7) than MHB (7 years, IQR 5-12) (P = .01). Thirty-eight per cent received prophylaxis, started at median 10 years of age (IQR 4-24). Median joint bleeds and serious other bleeds during the last 12 months were both zero (IQR 0-1). Total HEAD-US captured 0/48 points (median) (IQR 0-2) and HJHS 4/120 points (IQR 1-10) with strong correlation between them (r = .72)., Fviii/fix: C ≤ 3 IU/dL was associated with higher HJHS (P = .04). Fifteen per cent had undergone orthopaedic surgery., Conclusion: The current joint health in Nordic moderate haemophilia patients was rather good, but a subgroup had severe arthropathy., Fviii/fix: C ≤ 3 IU/dL and MHA were associated with a more severe bleeding phenotype. We suggest primary prophylaxis to all patients with FVIII/FIX:C ≤ 3 IU/dL., (© 2020 The Authors. Haemophilia published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Background: Type 3 von Willebrand's disease (VWD) patients present markedly reduced levels of von Willebrand factor and factor VIII. Because of its rarity, the bleeding phenotype of type 3 VWD is poorly described, as compared to type 1 VWD., Aims: To evaluate the frequency and the severity of bleeding symptoms across age and sex groups in type 3 patients and to compare these with those observed in type 1 VWD patients to investigate any possible clustering of bleeding symptoms within type 3 patients., Methods: We compared the bleeding phenotype and computed the bleeding score (BS) using the MCMDM-1VWD bleeding questionnaire in patients enrolled in the 3WINTERS-IPS and MCMDM-1VWD studies., Results: In 223 unrelated type 3 VWD patients, both the BS and the number of clinically relevant bleeding symptoms were increased in type 3 as compared to type 1 VWD patients (15 versus 6 and 5 versus 3). Intracranial bleeding, oral cavity, hemarthroses, and deep hematomas were at least five-fold over-represented in type 3 VWD. A more severe bleeding phenotype was evident in patients having von Willebrand factor antigen levels < 20 IU/dL at diagnosis in the two merged cohorts. In type 3 patients, there was an apparent clustering of hemarthrosis with gastrointestinal bleeding and epistaxis, whereas bleeding after surgery or tooth extraction clusters with oral bleeding and menorrhagia., Conclusions: In the largest cohort of type 3 VWD patients, we were able to describe a distinct clinical phenotype that is associated with the presence of a more severe hemostatic defect., (© 2020 International Society on Thrombosis and Haemostasis.)

Background:  Factor VIII (FVIII) trough levels > 1 IU/dL in patients with severe hemophilia A receiving regular prophylaxis may optimize bleed protection., Objectives:  In this post hoc analysis of patients receiving tertiary prophylaxis for approximately 1 year, the relationship between estimated FVIII levels and reported bleeds was investigated to predict the potential for zero bleeds., Methods:  Sixty-three patients (median [range] age, 28 [7-59] years) with severe hemophilia A (229 bleeds) were included. FVIII levels at time of each bleed were estimated from single-dose individual pharmacokinetics. The highest estimated FVIII level at which patients experienced a bleed was considered the "potentially effective trough level" for that bleed type. Kaplan-Meier estimates of proportions of patients with no bleeds above certain estimated FVIII levels were determined. Those not experiencing a bleed in the trial were assumed to have a bleed at 0 IU/dL (pragmatic approach) or at their median trough level (conservative approach)., Results:  Kaplan-Meier estimates based on pragmatic approach predicted zero all bleeds, joint bleeds, and spontaneous joint bleeds in 1 year in 40, 43, and 63% of patients, respectively, when the potentially effective trough FVIII level was set at 1 IU/dL. Between 1 and 10 IU/dL, every 1 IU/dL rise in estimated FVIII level was associated with an additional 2% of patients having zero all bleeds., Conclusion:  This post hoc analysis confirms benefits with trough levels of approximately 1 to 3 IU/dL in most patients starting tertiary prophylaxis; prophylaxis with higher trough levels may help patients to achieve zero bleeds., Competing Interests: All authors report nonfinancial (medical writing) support from Baxalta US Inc., a Takeda company, during the conduct of the study. P.C. has received consulting fees from Bayer, Baxalta*, Biogen, Biovertiv, CSL Behring, Chugai, Freeline, Novo Nordisk, Pfizer, Roche, Shire*, Spark and Sobi; and research funding from CSL Behring, Novo Nordisk, and Pfizer. K.F. has received consulting fees from Bayer, Baxter*, Biogen, Freeline, Novo Nordisk, and Pfizer; research funding from Bayer, Baxter*, Novo Nordisk, and Wyeth/Pfizer; and has been a member of speaker bureaus for Bayer, Baxter*, Biotest Octapharma, CSL Behring, Novo Nordisk, and Pfizer. P.W.C. has received consulting fees from CSL Behring, Novo Nordisk, Shire*, and Sobi; research funding from CSL Behring; and has been a member of a speaker bureau for Shire*. At the time of the current study, A.C. was an employee of Baxalta Innovations GmbH, a member of the Takeda group of companies. B.A.K. has received consulting fees from BioMarin, Genentech, Sigilon, and Spark; and research funding from Bioverativ, Pfizer, Sangamo, Shire*, and Spark. V.B. has served as Chair of the International Prophylaxis Study Group (supported by grants to the Hospital for Sick Children Foundation, Toronto, Canada, from Bayer HealthCare, Bioverativ, Novo Nordisk, Pfizer, Shire*, and Spark); has served on data safety monitoring boards for Octapharma and Shire*; has served on speaker bureaus/advisory boards for Amgen, Bayer HealthCare, Novo Nordisk, Pfizer, and Shire*; and has received research support from Bayer HealthCare, Bioverativ, and Shire*. S.W.P. has received consulting fees from Apcintex, Bayer, BioMarin, Bioverativ, Catalyst Biosciences, CSL Behring, HEMA Biologics, Freeline, Novo Nordisk, Pfizer, Roche/Genentech, Sanofi, Shire*, Spark, and uniQure. E.B. has received research funding from Bayer, CSL Behring, Shire*, and Sobi; has been a member of speaker bureaus from Bayer, Octapharma, and Shire*; and has served on an advisory board for LFB. M.W. and W.E. are employees of Baxalta Innovations GmbH, a member of the Takeda group of companies, and are Takeda stock owners. At the time of the current study, G.S. was an employee of Baxalta US Inc, a member of the Takeda group of companies. *A member of the Takeda group of companies., (Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York.)

Background: Prophylaxis with factor VIII (FVIII) should be individualized based on patient characteristics, including FVIII pharmacokinetics. Population pharmacokinetic (popPK) modeling simplifies pharmacokinetic studies by obviating the need for multiple samples., Objective: The objective of this study was to characterize the pharmacokinetics and inter-individual variability (IIV) of BAY 94-9027 in relation to patient characteristics in support of a popPK-tailored approach, including identifying the optimal number and timing of pharmacokinetic samples., Methods: Pharmacokinetic samples from 198 males (aged 2‒62 years) with severe hemophilia A, enrolled in BAY 94-9027 clinical trials, were analyzed. Baseline age, height, weight, body mass index, lean body weight (LBW), von Willebrand factor (VWF) level, and race were evaluated. A popPK model was developed and used to simulate pharmacokinetic endpoints difficult to observe from measured FVIII levels, including time to maintain FVIII levels above 1, 3, and 5 IU/dL after different BAY 94-9027 doses., Results: A one-compartment model adequately described BAY 94-9027 pharmacokinetics. Clearance and central volume of distribution were significantly associated with LBW; clearance was inversely correlated with VWF. Due to the monophasic pharmacokinetics and well-understood IIV sources, identification of patient pharmacokinetics was achievable with sparse blood sampling. Median predicted time to maintain FVIII levels > 1 IU/dL in patients aged ≥ 12 years ranged from 120.1 to 127.2 h after single BAY 94-9027 doses of 45‒60 IU/kg., Conclusions: This analysis evaluated the pharmacokinetics of BAY 94-9027 and its sources of IIV. Using the model, determination of individual patient pharmacokinetics was possible with few FVIII samples, and a sparse sampling design to support pharmacokinetic-guided dosing was identified.

Historically, treatment based on the availability of clotting factor replacement has resulted in an arcane guideline for the correction of factor deficiencies in people with haemophilia (PwH). While all other disease entities seek to restore function to a normal level, PwH are restricted to factor nadirs still equivalent to mild or moderate disease, resulting in continued risk of bleeding. A new treatment paradigm is needed based on the defined needs of PwH. A treatment model was developed by a panel of haemophilia providers, patient advocates and health economists to establish specific treatment milestones and targeted outcomes. The panel defined a series of treatment milestones to characterize the activity and outcomes linked to level of factor deficiency correction. All agreed that the ultimate goal should be 'functional cure' and 'health equity'. Seven levels to achieving a functional cure were identified, (a) Sustain life; (b) Minimal joint impairment; (c) Freedom from any spontaneous bleeds; (d) Attainment of 'normal' mobility; (e) Able to sustain minor trauma without additional intervention; (f) Ability to sustain major surgery or trauma; and (g) Normal haemostasis. A parallel set of patient-reported outcomes to achieve health equity was identified. These guidelines are now comparable with other disorders where the goal is to replace missing proteins to attain normal activity levels. As we are no longer limited by plasma supply due to the manufacture of recombinant factors, mimetics, and the early success of gene therapy, health equity is now achievable., (© 2019 The Authors. Haemophilia published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

The diagnosis and treatment of von Willebrand disease (VWD) are challenging, in part because patients exhibit a wide range of bleeding patterns and manifestations (e.g. epistaxis, gingival bleeding, heavy menstrual bleeding, gastrointestinal bleeds, postoperative bleeding, hemarthroses) and in part because many tests are required to make an accurate diagnosis. Factor replacement therapies for VWD are the mainstay of treatment for patients who do not respond to desmopressin. They have gradually evolved from crude preparations of plasma proteins to plasma-derived concentrates containing both von Willebrand factor (VWF) and factor VIII (FVIII). However, varying amounts and quality of VWF and varying content of FVIII have contributed to the lack of a standardized approach to replacement therapy. More recently, the treatment of VWD has undergone a slow yet significant change from plasma-derived VWF/FVIII concentrates with VWF:ristocetin cofactor (RCo)/FVIII ratios ≤1, to those with VWF:RCo/FVIII ratios >10, to a recombinant VWF. This article reviews the evolution of factor replacement therapy for patients with VWD that has occurred over the last several decades. The availability of a greater variety of factor replacement therapies poses a challenge in terms of a standard algorithm of care but may help overcome the limitations of earlier treatments and allow treatment personalization according to individual patient needs., (Copyright © 2019 Shire International GmbH and the Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.. All rights reserved.)

The goal of treating Von Willebrand Disease (VWD) is to replace deficient or dysfunctional Von Willebrand Factor (VWF) protein. However, the choice of treatment has to be considered carefully in view of patient factors and the unique properties of replacement products. Tailoring a treatment plan to an individual patient's bleeding challenge is an intricate process. This review describes personalization of treatment selection for desmopressin (DDAVP), VWF replacement concentrates, including the newly available recombinant VWF (rVWF) and prophylaxis as a treatment approach in VWD., (Copyright © 2019. Published by Elsevier Ltd.)

Healthy subjects frequently report minor bleedings that are frequently 'background noise' of normality rather than a true disorder. Nevertheless, unexpected or unusual bleeding may be alarming. Thus, the distinction between normal and pathologic bleeding is critical. Understanding the underlying pathologic mechanism in patients with an excessive bleeding is essential for their counseling and treatment. Most of these patients with significant bleeding will result affected by non-severe inherited bleeding disorders (BD), collectively denominated mild or moderate BD for their relatively benign course. Unfortunately, practical recommendations for the management of these disorders are still lacking due to the current state of fragmented knowledge of pathophysiology and lack of a systematic diagnostic approach. To address this gap, an International Working Group (IWG) was established by the European Hematology Association (EHA) to develop consensus-based guidelines on these disorders. The IWG agreed that grouping these disorders by their clinical phenotype under the single category of mild-to-moderate bleeding disorders (MBD) reflects current clinical practice and will facilitate a systematic diagnostic approach. Based on standardized and harmonized definitions a conceptual unified framework is proposed to distinguish normal subjects from affected patients. The IWG proposes a provisional comprehensive patient-centered initial diagnostic approach that will result in classification of MBD into distinct clinical-pathological entities under the overarching principle of clinical utility for the individual patient. While we will present here a general overview of the global management of patients with MBD, this conceptual framework will be adopted and validated in the evidence-based, disease-specific guidelines under development by the IWG., Competing Interests: The authors have indicated they have no potential conflicts of interest to disclose., (Copyright © 2019 the Author(s). Published by Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. on behalf of the European Hematology Association.)

Background: A significant fraction of women with an impaired factor VIII or IX gene in the X chromosome, carriers of haemophilia, will have clotting factor activities corresponding to those seen in males with non-severe haemophilia, hence, experience an increased bleeding tendency. Data describing the long-term joint outcomes among carriers are limited. We compared the age at onset, frequency of joint-related diagnoses as well as joint surgery and related hospitalizations among carriers of haemophilia with sex- and birthdate-matched controls from the general population., Methods: Carriers of haemophilia born 1941-2008 were identified through the haemophilia treatment centres' (HTCs) databases and the National Patient Register of Sweden. For each carrier, we included up to five individuals using the Swedish population register as comparisons. Data for the period 1987-2008 were obtained., Results: Among 539 potential carriers identified, 213 had a known factor activity. Carriers with reduced factor activity and those with unknown factor activity had received their first joint-related diagnosis at a significantly earlier age than their comparisons. The same subgroups showed an overall 2.3- and 2.4-fold higher hazard for joint-related diagnoses compared with the general population. In addition, the hazards of joint-related outpatient hospitalization were 3.2-fold (95% CI: 1.2, 9.1) and 2.5-fold (95% CI: 1.6, 3.7). This was not observed for those with normal factor activity., Conclusion: Carriers of haemophilia suffer a significant risk for joint comorbidities. This risk seems to correlate to the factor activity. Our findings underline the importance of regular clinical follow-up of carriers at HTCs., (© 2019 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Introduction: Data on the prevalence of hypertension and cardiovascular diseases (CVD) among persons with haemophilia (PWH) vary. Sweden has a long tradition of maintaining population-based data registries, and there is extensive follow-up of haemophilia patients due to the use of prophylaxis over decades. We evaluated the prevalence of these diseases among Swedish PWH compared to matched controls using a longitudinal study design., Methods: Data were obtained from the National Patient Registry and linked to records of persons with haemophilia enrolled in the haemophilia centres. For each subject, five gender and age matched controls were identified., Results: We identified 193 (19.7%) diagnoses of hypertension in PWH born in 1978 or earlier over ≥30 years compared with 550 (11.2%) among controls. The median ages and interquartile ranges were 60.0 (42.8, 69.9) and 57.2 (42.6, 70.6) years. The hazard rate (HR) for hypertension, PWH vs. controls, was 2.1, 95% CI: [1.8; 2.5], p < 0.001. The findings were similar in subgroup analyses of patients with non-severe and severe haemophilia with or without HIV and/or viral hepatitis. Angina pectoris was diagnosed in 69 (4.8%) of patients censored at age 75 compared with 311 (4.3%) in controls, and myocardial ischemia in 84 (5.9%) compared with 442 (6.2%). As a cause of death, the HR for myocardial ischemia, comparing PWH and controls, was 0.58, 95% CI: [0.42, 0.80], p = 0.001., Conclusion: Our data support an increased prevalence of hypertension among persons with haemophilia. The prevalence of CVD seems to be similar to that of controls, but with lower mortality., (Copyright © 2019. Published by Elsevier Ltd.)

BAY 94-9027 is an extended-half-life, recombinant factor VIII (rFVIII) product conjugated with a 60-kDa branched polyethylene glycol (PEG) molecule indicated for use in previously treated patients (aged ≥ 12 years) with hemophilia A. This randomized, open-label, two-way crossover study compared the pharmacokinetics (PK) of BAY 94-9027 and rFVIII Fc fusion protein (rFVIIIFc) in patients with hemophilia A. Patients aged 18-65 years with FVIII < 1% and ≥ 150 exposure days to FVIII were randomized to receive intravenous single-dose BAY 94-9027 60 IU/kg followed by rFVIIIFc 60 IU/kg or vice versa, with ≥ 7-day wash-out between doses. FVIII activity was measured by one-stage assay. PK parameters, including area under the curve from time 0 to the last data point (AUC last , primary parameter), half-life, and clearance were calculated. Eighteen patients were randomized and treated. No adverse events were observed. In the analysis set excluding one outlier, geometric mean (coefficient of variation [%CV, 95% confidence interval {CI}]) AUC last was significantly higher for BAY 94-9027 versus rFVIIIFc (2940 [37.8, 2440-3550] IU h/dL versus 2360 [31.8, 2010-2770] IU h/dL, p = 0.0001). A population PK model was developed to simulate time to reach FVIII threshold levels; median time to 1 IU/dL was approximately 13 h longer for BAY 94-9027 versus rFVIIIFc after a single infusion of 60 IU/kg. In conclusion, BAY 94-9027 had a superior PK profile versus rFVIIIFc. ClinicalTrials.gov : NCT03364998.

Factor VIII protein (FVIII) as a coagulation replacement factor has for decades been used as the standard of care for management of people with haemophilia A. It is effective for treatment of bleeding events, as prophylaxis to prevent bleeding events and preserve joint function, and to support surgery in people with haemophilia A. Despite long experience in treating haemophilia A, we are only beginning to understand the functions of FVIII beyond its established role as a coenzyme to factor IXa to expedite thrombin generation through the intrinsic pathway of coagulation. Here, we review the current role of FVIII coagulant (FVIII:C) in haemophilia A management and emerging evidence for the role of FVIII across multiple systems, including the cardiovascular system, angiogenesis and maintenance of bone health. For instance, supraphysiological FVIII levels are a risk factor for venous thromboembolism. von Willebrand factor (VWF), which forms a non-covalent complex with circulating FVIII, is an established marker and regulator of angiogenesis. In a mouse model of haemophilia, treatment with FVIII decreased expression of receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-Β ligand (RANKL), a marker for bone turnover. Longitudinal follow-up data in people with haemophilia A are needed to confirm and extend these observations., (Copyright © 2019 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.. All rights reserved.)

Introduction: Differences in treatment and outcome have been reported for persons with haemophilia (PWH) on intermediate-dose (Dutch) and high-dose (Swedish) prophylaxis, but the potential influence of sports participation has not been considered., Aim: To compare sports participation and clinical outcome between adult Dutch and Swedish PWH., Methods: Self-reported sports participation (type and frequency per week), physical functioning (SF-36 PF : 100-0), joint status (HJHS: 0-144), perceived limitations (HAL sum : 100-0) and physical activity (IPAQ) were recorded. Sports were classified according to National Haemophilia Foundation classification (5 categories, highest two were classified as high-risk sports). Sports participation and clinical outcome were compared according to country and age (18-22, 23-29, 30-40 years) using non-parametric tests and Spearman correlations (rho)., Results: Seventy-one adult PWH (NL: 43, SWE: 28) completed sports questionnaires (mean age: 26 years). All participants engaged in sports, including 59.2% in high-risk sports (33.9% twice weekly). Dutch PWH showed a significant age-related decline in (high-risk) sports participation (7x/wk in PWH 18-22 years to 2x/wk in PWH 30-40 years, P < 0.05), joint health (HJHS: median 2-15.5, P < 0.01) and physical functioning (SF-36 PF : median 100 to 77.5, P < 0.01), while Swedish did not. Sports participation was not associated with bleeding (Spearman's rho = -0.119)., Conclusion: All participants reported sports participation, including 59.2% in high-risk sports. Dutch PWH treated with intermediate-dose prophylaxis showed an age-related decline in sports participation, joint status and physical functioning, whereas Swedish PWH on high-dose prophylaxis did not. Sports participation was not associated with bleeding., (© 2019 The Authors. Haemophilia Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)