Emicizumab could improve outcomes for patients with acquired hemophilia A, but it is underutilized in US treatment centers, according to a presentation at the International Society on Thrombosis and Haemostasis (ISTH) 2021 annual congress.
Emicizumab is a bispecific antibody that mimics factor VIII and has improved prophylaxis care for congenital hemophilia A. However, its role in acquired hemophilia A hasn’t been analyzed.
The abstract authors surveyed adult hematologists in hemophilia treatment centers across the United States to determine their usage of emicizumab. A total of 32 hematologists responded to the survey, representing 32 treatment centers. There were 90% of respondents who used emicizumab as second line therapy for acquired hemophilia A. Of the respondents, 31% have given emicizumab to 40 total patients.
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A total of 70% of respondents said they were able to delay or decrease immunosuppression after starting a patient on emicizumab. No providers stopped treatment because of adverse events.
Hematologists want additional safety data, with 86% saying they would consider using emicizumab if this additional data were available. Based on usage, emicizumab may improve outcomes for patients with acquired hemophilia A by providing outpatient prophylaxis.
Reference
Poston J, Kruse-Jarres R. The use of emicizumab for acquired hemophilia A at US hemophilia treatment centers. Paper presented at: International Society on Thrombosis and Haemostasis (ISTH) 2021 Congress; July 17-21, 2021; virtual. Abstract PB0431.
