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Risk factors for bleeding in people living with Hemophilia A and B treated with regular prophylaxis: a systematic review of the literature
Germini F, Noronha N, Philip BA, Olasupo O, Pete D, Navarro T, Keepanasseril A, Matino D, de Wit K, Parpia S, et al
Journal of thrombosis and haemostasis : JTH. 2022
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Editor's Choice
Abstract
BACKGROUND Knowledge about the risk for bleeding in patients with hemophilia (PWH) would be relevant for patients, stakeholders, and policy makers. OBJECTIVES to perform a systematic review of the literature on risk assessment models (RAMs) and risk factors for bleeding in PWH on regular prophylaxis. METHODS We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews from inception through August 2019. In duplicate, reviewers screened the articles for inclusion, extracted data, and assessed the risk for bias using the QUIPS tool. A qualitative synthesis of the results was not performed due to high heterogeneity in risk factors, outcomes definition and measurement, and statistical analysis of the results. RESULTS From 1843 search results, 10 studies met the inclusion criteria. No RAM for the risk for bleeding in PWH was found. Most studies included only PWH A or both PWH A and B and were conducted in North America or Europe. Only one study had a low risk for bias in all the domains. Eight categories of risk factors were identified. The risk for bleeding was increased when factor levels were lower and in people with a significant history of bleeding or who engaged in physical activities involving contact. CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest that plasma factor levels, history of bleeds, and physical activity should be considered for the derivation analysis when building a RAM for bleeding in PWH, and the role of other risk factors, including antithrombotic treatment and obesity, should be explored.
PICO Summary
Population
People living with haemophilia (PWH) A and B treated with regular prophylaxis (10 studies).
Intervention
Systematic review on risk assessment models and risk factors for bleeding.
Comparison
Outcome
No risk assessment model for the risk for bleeding was found. Most studies included only PWH A or both PWH A and B and were conducted in North America or Europe. Only one study had a low risk for bias in all the domains. Eight categories of risk factors were identified. The risk for bleeding was increased when factor levels were lower and in people with a significant history of bleeding or who engaged in physical activities involving contact.
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Hydroxyurea Adherence Strategies for Persons with Sickle Cell Disease: A Systematic Review
Vick L, Potts M, Jaskowiak M, Gibson RW
Journal of health care for the poor and underserved. 2021;32(1):99-118
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Adherence to hydroxyurea is essential to modify the pathology of sickle cell disease. OBJECTIVE To identify best strategies to support adherence to hydroxyurea in persons with sickle cell disease. METHODS A systematic review was conducted. PubMed, Cumulative Index of Nursing and Allied Health Literature, PsycArticles, PsycInfo, Embase databases and Cochrane Library were searched for studies between 1998 to 2018. RESULTS Six studies met inclusion criteria: two randomized controlled trials, three prospective studies, and one retrospective chart review. DISCUSSION Few studies addressed strategies that tested adherence interventions primarily composed of behavioral change resulting in medication adherence. More studies on hydroxyurea adherence are needed.
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Bleeding Assessment Tools in the Diagnosis of von Willebrand Disease: Systematic Review & Meta-Analysis of Test Accuracy
Kalot MA, Husainat N, Tayiem S, El Alayli A, Dimassi AB, Diab O, Abughanimeh O, Madoukh B, Qureini A, Ameer B, et al
Blood advances. 2021
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Von Willebrand Disease (VWD) can be associated with significant morbidity. Patients with VWD can experience bruising, mucocutaneous bleeding, and bleeding after dental and surgical procedures. Early diagnosis and treatment are important to minimize the risk of these complications. Several bleeding assessment tools (BATs) have been used to quantify bleeding symptoms as a screening tool for VWD. OBJECTIVE We systematically reviewed diagnostic test accuracy results of bleeding assessment tools (BATs) to screen patients for VWD. METHODS We searched Cochrane Central, MEDLINE, and EMBASE for eligible studies, reference lists of relevant reviews, registered trials, and relevant conference proceedings. Two investigators screened and abstracted data. Risk of bias was assessed using QUADAS-2 and certainty of evidence using the GRADE framework. We pooled estimates of sensitivity and specificity. RESULTS The review included 7 cohort studies that evaluated the use of BATs to screen adult and pediatric patients for VWD. The pooled estimates for sensitivity and specificity were 75% (95% confidence interval [CI] 66%-83%) and 54% (29%-77%), respectively. Certainty of evidence varied from moderate to high. CONCLUSION This systematic review provides accuracy estimates for validated BATs as a screening modality for VWD. A BAT is a useful initial screening test to determine who needs specific blood testing. The pretest probability of VWD (often determined by the clinical setting/patient population), along with sensitivity and specificity estimates will influence patient management.
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Neonatal Uterine Bleedings: An Ignored Sign but a Possible Cause of Early-Onset Endometriosis - A Systematic Review
Dekker J, Hooijer I, Ket JCF, Vejnović A, Benagiano G, Brosens I, Mijatovic V
Biomedicine hub. 2021;6(1):6-16
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Based on the hypothesis that neonatal uterine bleedings (NUB), occurring mostly in the first week after birth, could represent a pathogenetic mechanism for early-onset endometriosis, this systematic review (SR) was undertaken to evaluate the prevalence and screening strategies used to assess and quantify NUB. DESIGN Both a SR and a sample literature search in PubMed and Embase were conducted to gather information on NUB prevalence and screening techniques. This was performed by an information specialist. Only full-text articles regarding the assessment of NUB in neonates in the first 2 weeks after birth were included. No limit on language or publication data was used. MATERIALS AND METHODS The SR was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42019138121). Data was first assessed for eligibility on title and abstract by 2 blinded review authors. Any disagreements were discussed with a third reviewer if necessary. Subsequently, full-text articles were read and assessed for quality using the Cochrane Collaboration Handbook. RESULTS Out of 1,988 articles in the systematic search, 10 relevant articles were selected, of which 8 were identified through the systematic search and 2 were found through other sources. The sample search of 4,445 articles did not bring up relevant articles. Results were not comparable due to the heterogeneity of screening techniques, although data showed consensus. The prevalence of visible bleeding ranged from 3.3 to 53.8% and the prevalence of occult bleeding from 25.4 to 96.7%. The occurrence was the highest between the 3rd and 7th day postpartum (PP) and the bleeding lasted for 3-4 days on average. Various screening techniques for detecting NUB were found in the literature, including the use of hemoglobin detection devices (such as Hemastix) in the vaginal vestibulum, comparison of diapers with stains of known volume, colposcopy, and ultrasonography. CONCLUSION The reported prevalence of NUB varies considerably, with a consistent occurrence between the 3rd and the 7th day PP. Literature to assess NUB is dated. The techniques are poorly described and heterogeneous. Future research should focus on prospective cohort studies in order to attempt to correlate NUB cases to (early-onset) endometriosis.
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Evidence-based interventions implemented in low-and middle-income countries for sickle cell disease management: A systematic review of randomized controlled trials
Gyamfi J, Ojo T, Epou S, Diawara A, Dike L, Adenikinju D, Enechukwu S, Vieira D, Nnodu O, Ogedegbe G, et al
PloS one. 2021;16(2):e0246700
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Editor's Choice
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite ~90% of sickle cell disease (SCD) occurring in low-and middle-income countries (LMICs), the vast majority of people are not receiving evidence-based interventions (EBIs) to reduce SCD-related adverse outcomes and mortality, and data on implementation research outcomes (IROs) and SCD is limited. This study aims to synthesize available data on EBIs for SCD and assess IROs. METHODS We conducted a systematic review of RCTs reporting on EBIs for SCD management implemented in LMICs. We identified articles from PubMed/Medline, Global Health, PubMed Central, Embase, Web of Science medical subject heading (MeSH and Emtree) and keywords, published from inception through February 23, 2020, and conducted an updated search through December 24, 2020. We provide intervention characteristics for each study, EBI impact on SCD, and evidence of reporting on IROs. MAIN RESULTS 29 RCTs were analyzed. EBIs identified included disease modifying agents, supportive care agents/analgesics, anti-malarials, systemic treatments, patient/ provider education, and nutritional supplements. Studies using disease modifying agents, nutritional supplements, and anti-malarials reported improvements in pain crisis, hospitalization, children's growth and reduction in severity and prevalence of malaria. Two studies reported on the sustainability of supplementary arginine, citrulline, and daily chloroquine and hydroxyurea for SCD patients. Only 13 studies (44.8%) provided descriptions that captured at least three of the eight IROs. There was limited reporting of acceptability, feasibility, fidelity, cost and sustainability. CONCLUSION EBIs are effective for SCD management in LMICs; however, measurement of IROs is scarce. Future research should focus on penetration of EBIs to inform evidence-based practice and sustainability in the context of LMICs. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION This review is registered in PROSPERO #CRD42020167289.
PICO Summary
Population
Children and adults with sickle cell disease (SCD) in 14 low- and middle-income countries, (30 studies).
Intervention
Evidence-based interventions including: disease modifying agents, supportive care agents/analgesics, anti-malarials, systemic treatments (e.g., red blood cell transfusions), patient/provider education, and nutritional supplements.
Comparison
Placebo or comparator intervention
Outcome
Studies using disease modifying agents, nutritional supplements, and anti-malarials reported improvements in pain crisis, hospitalization, children's growth and reduction in severity and prevalence of malaria. Two studies reported on the sustainability of supplementary arginine, citrulline, and daily chloroquine and hydroxyurea for SCD patients. Only 13 studies (44.8%) provided descriptions that captured at least three of the eight implementation research outcomes. There was limited reporting of acceptability, feasibility, fidelity, cost and sustainability.
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A scoping review of transition interventions for young adults with sickle cell disease
Viola A, Porter J, Shipman J, Brooks E, Valrie C
Pediatric blood & cancer. 2021;:e29135
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Abstract
Standardized programming for individuals with sickle cell disease (SCD) transitioning from pediatric to adult-centered care does not currently exist, resulting in high rates of mortality and morbidity. This scoping review examines and evaluates the current literature on SCD transition programs and interventions. Eligible studies described an existing program for individuals with SCD aged 12-29 years preparing to transition. The Evidence Project risk-of-bias tool was used to assess article quality. We identified 30 eligible articles, of which, only two were randomized controlled trials. Many studies have incomplete reports of feasibility information, such as completion rates, patient characteristics, and attrition; all studies were limited to a single institution; and most studies were rated high for risk of bias. Progress has been made in designing and gathering initial evaluation data for SCD transition programs; however, there is a need for higher quality studies, consistent assessment, and better dissemination of programs.
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Outcomes for studies assessing the efficacy of hemostatic therapies in persons with congenital bleeding disorders
Aquino CC, Borg Debono V, Germini F, Pete D, Kempton CL, Young G, Sidonio R, Croteau SE, Dunn AL, Key NS, et al
Haemophilia : the official journal of the World Federation of Hemophilia. 2021
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Management strategies and hemostatic treatments to achieve control of bleeding are relevant across many disease areas. Identification of primary outcomes for studies assessing hemostatic intervention was the objective of a National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute (NHLBI) sponsored multidisciplinary initiative. The aim of this report is to summarize the evidence reviewed, and the outcomes identified by the subgroup tasked to assess outcomes for inherited bleeding disorders. METHODS The subgroup decided to focus on haemophilia, the prototypal congenital bleeding disorder and the one with the largest available body of evidence. MEDLINE, EMBASE and PsycINFO, The Cochrane Review, CINAHL, and Web of Science were searched for systematic and narrative reviews on outcomes used in haemophilia clinical trials. Three different clinical goals were identified as typical objectives of future research. RESULTS Out of 1322 unique citations, 24 reviews published in the period 2002-2019 were included. We identified 113 outcome measures, categorized in 6 domains: health-related quality of life (HRQoL), comorbidities and mortality, overall physical functioning and participation, bleeding and hemostasis, joint health, and costs and resource use. Three different clinical goals were identified as typical objectives of future research: Episodic 'on demand' replacement therapy, prevention of bleeding (Prophylaxis), and long-term and overall impact of bleeding. For each of these scenarios, specific outcomes were recommended. CONCLUSIONS Primary outcomes for clinical trials assessing the efficacy of hemostatic treatment in achieving control, prevention and limiting long-term consequences of bleeding in inherited bleeding disorders are suggested, and their strength and limitations discussed.
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A Systematic Review of Medication Adherence Interventions in Pediatric Sickle Cell Disease
Shih S, Cohen LL
J Pediatr Psychol. 2020
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Editor's Choice
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Adherence to medication regimens is of critical importance in sickle cell disease (SCD). Most notably, data indicate that hydroxyurea, penicillin, and iron chelators increase life expectancy and decrease comorbid medical problems (e.g., strokes). However, average pediatric SCD adherence rates are only 55-74%. Studies have introduced interventions for pediatric SCD adherence, but no review has synthesized these data. METHODS We conducted a systematic review of interventions for enhancing medication adherence in pediatric SCD. There were 9 studies that met inclusion and exclusion criteria. The Pediatric Self-Management Model provided a framework for organizing the modifiable factors targeted by existing interventions. RESULTS The 9 studies had high risk of bias levels and most targeted hydroxyurea. All studies used multiple measures of adherence, the interventions were multicomponent, and most included behavioral or technological interventions. There was variability in terms of whether the intervention targeted the individual, family, community, or healthcare system. CONCLUSIONS Consistent with the broader adherence literature, targeting knowledge alone was insufficient in increasing adherence. Findings suggest that reminders and targeting self-efficacy were key to success. In addition, addressing multiple domains in an intervention yielded larger effects on adherence. Although these results are promising, this review highlights several limitations of the extant literature, including a paucity of intervention studies and several methodological weaknesses, such as small sample sizes, few randomized controlled trials, and variable measures of adherence. Recommendations for advancing scientific understanding of adherence promoting interventions in pediatric SCD are provided.
PICO Summary
Population
Paediatric patients with sickle cell disease (SCD), (9 studies, n=247).
Intervention
Systematic review on interventions for improving SCD medication regimen adherence.
Comparison
Outcome
Most studies targeted hydroxyurea followed by iron chelator, and penicillin. All studies used multiple measures of adherence, the interventions were multicomponent, and most included behavioral or technological interventions. There was variability in terms of whether the intervention targeted the individual, family, community, or healthcare system.
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Congenital Alpha-2 Antiplasmin Deficiency: a Literature Survey and Analysis of 123 Cases
Matrane W, Bencharef H, Oukkache B
Clinical laboratory. 2020;66(12)
Abstract
BACKGROUND Congenital alpha-2 antiplasmin deficiency is a rare, often misdiagnosed coagulopathy that may result in severe hemorrhage. Homozygous patients develop symptomatology in early childhood, while heterozygous individuals may be asymptomatic or bleed profusely following invasive dental procedures, surgery or trauma late in life. Due to the rarity of this entity, we performed an analysis of reported cases of congenital alpha-2 antiplasmin deficiency to share uncommon cases with the medical community, to raise awareness of the condition among clinicians, and to promote better patient management. METHODS To identify relevant studies, PubMed and Science Direct were searched using controlled vocabulary and keywords based on medical subject headings (MeSH). Data of all reported cases of congenital alpha-2 antiplasmin deficiency were extracted and summarized for study setting, patient characteristics, and types of treatments. RESULTS Thirty-three publications were identified encompassing one hundred twenty-three patients. This manuscript presents many important clinical conditions that are uncommon and may go undetected by medical personnel. It illustrates the importance of considering alpha-2 antiplasmin deficiency in the work-up of patients who present with a severe bleeding phenotype and may have normal coagulation screening tests. Management of such patients may be challenging especially when the diagnosis of alpha-2 antiplasmin deficiency is not known. CONCLUSIONS Improved awareness and access to diagnostic tools will contribute to better management of rare co-agulopathies.
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Prevalence of neonatal hyperbilirubinaemia and its association with glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency and blood-type incompatibility in sub-Saharan Africa: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Aynalem YA, Mulu GB, Akalu TY, Shiferaw WS
BMJ paediatrics open. 2020;4(1):e000750
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hyperbilirubinaemia is a silent cause of newborn disease and death worldwide. However, studies of the disease in sub-Saharan Africa are highly variable with respect to its prevalence. Hence, this study aimed to estimate the overall magnitude of neonatal hyperbilirubinaemia and its association with glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency and blood-type incompatibility in sub-Saharan Africa. METHODS PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar and the Cochrane Review were systematically searched online to retrieve hyperbilirubinaemia-related articles. All observational studies reported the prevalence of hyperbilirubinaemia in sub-Saharan Africa were included for analysis and excluded if the study failed to determine the desired outcome. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines were followed. Heterogeneity across the included studies was evaluated using the inconsistency index (I(2)). Subgroup and meta- regression analysis were also done. Publication bias was examined by funnel plot and the Egger's regression test. The random-effect model was fitted to estimate the pooled prevalence of neonatal hyperbilirubinaemia. The meta-analysis was performed using the STATA V.14 software. RESULTS A total of 30 486 studies were collected from the different databases and 10 articles were included for the final analysis. The overall magnitude of neonatal hyperbilirubinaemia was 28.08% (95% CI20.23 to 35.94, I(2)=83.2) in sub-Saharan Africa. Neonates with G6PD deficiency (OR 2.42, 95% CI 1.64 to 3.56, I(2)=37%) and neonates that had a blood type that was incompatible with their mother's (OR 3.3, (95% CI 1.96 to 5.72, I(2)=84%) were more likely to develop hyperbilirubinaemia. CONCLUSION The failure to prevent and screen G6PD deficiency and blood-type incompatibility with their mother's results in high burden of neonatal hyperbilirubinaemia in sub-Saharan Africa. Therefore, early identification and care strategies should be developed to the affected neonates with G6PD deficiency and blood-type incompatibility with their mother's to address long-term medical and scholastic damages among those exposed to hyperbilirubinaemia.
