Citations 158

Laboratory Predictors Of Loss Of High Molecular Weight Multimers In Patients With Cardiovascular Disease-Associated Acquired Von Willebrand Syndrom

Blood | October 14, 2019 | Volume: 122 | Issue: 21 | Pages: 335-335

10.1182/blood.v122.21.335.335

Abstract Background Association of acquired von Willebrand syndrome (AVWS) with various cardiovascular (CV) disorders such as cardiac valve disease and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is well known and documented. The mechanism is thought to be related to shear stress induced loss of high molecular weight multimers (HMWM). The gold standard test to assess for loss of HMWM is von Willebrand protein electrophoresis and then visual assessment of loss of high molecular weight bands. This is both a costly and subjective test. Ratio of von Willebrand factor activity to antigen level is useful in patients with type IIA Von Willebrand Disease caused by loss of HMW multimer, but its sensitivity to detect CV-associated AVWS is unknown. Aim Our aim was to test whether routine VWF laboratory tests could be used to predict which patients with CV conditions are going to have high molecular weight multimer loss. We also aimed to assess whether these tests could be used to predict bleeding risk in patients with CV disorders. Methods We prospectively collected laboratory data of 234 patients with cardiovascular disorders known to be associated with AVWS: aortic stenosis (66), aortic insufficiency(22), aortic and mitral valve prostheses(38), mitral valve regurgitation (51) and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy(57). All patients had Von Willebrand factor antigen (VWF:Ag), Von Willebrand factor activity by latex method (VWF:Ltx), platelet function testing via PFA-100 CADP as well as von Willebrand factor multimers tested. All patients also completed a bleeding questionnaire. We used logistic regression model to calculate the relationship between the VWF:Ltx/VWF:Ag ratio and loss of high molecular weight multimers. Same analysis was performed for PFA-100. We also tested these associations for bleeding risk. Results Mean value for VWF:Ag was 142 IU/dL, VWF:Ltx 121%, PFA-100 151 seconds and 0.86 for the VWF:Ltx/Ag ratio. Over a half of patients (56%) had VWF multimer loss noted on protein electrophoresis testing and a quarter reported bleeding on bleeding questionnaire. The ratio of VWF:Ltx to VWF:Ag had strong correlation with HMW multimer loss (p<0.001) with AUC of 0.77. Correlation with PFA-100 was even stronger with AUC of 0.83. The ratio cut off value of 0.83 had sensitivity of 60% and specificity of 83% in predicting multimer loss. With the cut off of 0.77, specificity reached 95%. With PFA 100 value of 118 seconds, specificity was 76% and sensitivity was 80%. Increasing the cut off to 198 seconds improved the specificity to 95%. The association with bleeding was present for PFA-100 (p=0.01), but did not exist for the Ltx/Ag ratio. Conclusions PFA-100 CADP as well as VWF:Ag and VWF:Ltx can be used to detect acquired Von Willebrand disease in patients with cardiovascular disorders and may decrease the need for costly and time consuming testing of multimers. PFA-100 CADP also correlates with the bleeding risk in these patients. Disclosures: No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.
Platelet Storage Pool Deficiency: Establishment Of Reference Ranges For Platelet Dense Granule Count By Transmission Electron Microscopy

Blood | October 14, 2019 | Volume: 122 | Issue: 21 | Pages: 3549-3549

10.1182/blood.v122.21.3549.3549

Abstract Background Platelet dense granule (DG) deficiencies, including Hermansky-Pudlak syndrome, are relatively common and frequently under-diagnosed hereditary platelet hypofunctional disorders. Among various laboratory tests, platelet whole mount (WM) transmission electron microscopy (TEM) is considered the gold standard method for diagnosing DG deficiencies. Nevertheless, platelet DG TEM testing is still largely a research tool and has not been thoroughly validated and standardized as a clinical test. Furthermore, reference ranges (RR) of DG count/platelet (DGC) have not been adequately established. Aim Our goals were to validate and standardize platelet WM TEM testing and establish reference ranges for platelet DGC. Methods Based on previously established methods (Blood, 33:598-606), we first optimized and standardized various pre-analytical, analytical and post-analytical procedures including sample matrix, sample stability, platelet-rich plasma (PRP) preparation, platelet mounting procedure and DG counting criteria. Then whole blood samples in ACD-B tubes were collected from a total of 128 healthy donors (64 males and 64 females). Platelet DGC, percentage of platelets without any DG (empty platelets), platelet count (PC), mean platelet volume (MPV) and immature platelet fraction (IPF) were measured. In addition, platelet aggregometry analyses were performed on citrated PRP samples from the same donors. Standard statistical analyses were employed in this study. Results DGC and platelet ultra-structure were stable when whole blood samples were stored at room temperature (RT) for up to 4 days. Reproducible DGC and adequate preservation of platelet ultrastructure depended on an optimized mounting method. The DG counting criteria were developed based on previous publications and guidance from Dr. James G. White. Using the same WM TEM images and DG counting criteria, agreements among different technologists (n=5) improved from 60% to 95%. Finally, DGC reference range study using 128 healthy donor samples (age range 18, 72 years) and scoring 100-200 platelets from each donor showed that the DGC distribution of each donor sample was left-skewed with a median of 15% of empty platelets (range: 3, 40). The median DGC was 2.6 with a range of 1.0—5.1. Reference ranges established at the lower 95th percentile for DGC empty platelets is ≤ 31% (95% CI 28, 34) and for the mid-95th percentiles of DGCs between 1.5 and 4.0. DGCs were weakly associated with MPV and IPF (ρ between 0.22 and 0.28); and inversely associated with the percentage of empty platelets (ρ between -0.26 and -0.25). DGC showed no significant association with PC, platelet maximum aggregation or primary slope of aggregation, nor age or gender. Conclusion We validated platelet WM TEM procedures and for the first time established an adult reference range for platelet DGC. The results of association analyses implied that immature platelets may have slightly more DGs. Disclosures: No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.
1,123 Consecutive Adults with Non-APL Acute Myeloid Leukemia: The Mayo Clinic Experience

Blood | October 14, 2019 | Volume: 132 | Issue: Supplement 1 | Pages: 2689-2689

10.1182/blood-2018-99-110811

Abstract Background : Pre-treatment determinants of survival in adult acute myeloid leukemia (AML) include performance status, age, karyotype, the distinction between primary and non-primary AML and FLT3-ITD/NPM1 mutational status. Current literature on AML natural history and risk factors is often based on information derived from stringent protocol studies. In the current series of 1,123 adult patients seen at the Mayo Clinic between 2004 and 2017, we examined long-term survival specified by a number of primarily established risk factors. Methods: Diagnosis of AML and its sub-classification was according to World Health Organization criteria. Study subjects were recruited from the Mayo Clinic AML database. Conventional response criteria were used for CR and CRi assignment; the latter met all criteria for CR with the exception of platelet count <100 x 109/l or absolute neutrophil cunt <1 x 109/l. Standard statistical methods were used for analysis of overall survival, calculated from the initial diagnosis of AML to date of death or last follow-up; analyses were performed both in the absence and in the presence of censoring of survival at time of allogenic stem cell transplant (ASCT). The JMP® Pro 13.0.0 software from SAS Institute, Cary, NC, USA, was used for all calculations. Results: 1,123 adult patients (median age 65 years, range 18-94; 61% males) with non-APL AML were considered; 61% were age >60 years. 351 (31%) patients were seen between 2004 and 2009 and 772 (69%) between 2010 and 2017. AML subcategories were primary (56%), post-myelodysplastic syndromes (post-MDS; 24%), therapy-related (10%), post-myeloproliferative neoplasm (post-MPN; 8%) and post-MDS/MPN (3%). Cytogenetic risk distribution, according to the European LeukemiaNet classification, was favorable in 47 (4%), intermediate in 650 (58%) and adverse risk in 426 (38%) patients. FLT3, NPM1 and CEBPA mutation information was available in 462 (24% mutated), 393 (27% mutated) and 228 (11% mutated) patients, respectively. Treatment included intensive chemotherapy (IC) in 766 (68%) patients, less aggressive chemotherapy, including the use of hypomethylating agents in 144 (13%) and supportive care alone in 213 (19%) patients. ASCT was utilized in 258 (23%) cases, almost all performed after achieving CR/CRi. Complete remission (CR) and CR with incomplete count recovery (CRi) were listed in 333 (30%) and 248 (22%) patients, respectively; the corresponding rates in IC-treated patients were 43% and 32%. Almost all cases of CR/CRi occurred in IC-treated patients; 2 (1.4%) CRs were listed for less aggressive chemotherapy. After a median follow-up of 11 months, 798 (71%) deaths were recorded. Median survival for all 1,123 patients was 14 months with 1-, 3- and 5-year survival rates of 54%, 29% and 23%, respectively; a slight but significant (p=0.01) improvement in survival was apparent in more recent years (Figure 1a). Figures 1b, 1c and 1d depict analysis stratified by AML subcategories, treatment received and response obtained, respectively. Similarly, figures 2a, 2b and 2c depict analysis stratified by karyotype, use of ASCT and age. Multivariable analysis of pre-treatment parameters evaluable in all 1,123 patients identified age >60 years (HR 2.2, 1.9-2.6), adverse karyotype (HR 2.9, 1.9-4.9), intermediate-risk karyotype (HR 1.6, 1.02-2.6), post-MPN AML (HR 1.9, 1.5-2.4) and other secondary AML (HR 1.3 (1.1-1.6), as risk factors for shortened survival; the inclusion in the model of FLT3/NPM1 mutational status in 392 informative cases confirmed the adverse prognostic effect of age >60 years (HR 1.8, 1.4-2.5), adverse karyotype (HR 3.7, 1.4-15.3), post-MPN AML (HR 2.8, 1.6-4.6), other secondary AML (HR 1.4, 1.0-1.9) and FLT3+NPM1- (HR 2.8, 1.6-4.9) and FLT3-NPM1- (HR 1.7, 1.2-2.7) profile. Results were unchanged when survival was censored at time of ASCT. Additional prognostic interaction with treatment strategy and ASCT is further elaborated in an accompanying abstract to be presented. Conclusions: The current study, the largest coming from a single institution, provides practically useful information that should assist with patient consultation on AML prognosis and treatment. The study confirms the primary prognostic importance of age, karyotype and FLT3/NPM1 mutational status, in real-life practice. Novel observations included comparable value of CRi vs CR and the particularly worse prognosis associated with post-MPN AML. Disclosures Al-Kali: Novartis: Research Funding.
Novel Hermanksky-Pudlak Syndrome Type 6 Missense Variant Associated with Subclinical Oculocutaneous Albinism and Mild Bleeding

Blood | October 14, 2019 | Volume: 132 | Issue: Supplement 1 | Pages: 1153-1153

10.1182/blood-2018-99-109829

Abstract Qualitative disorders of platelets are often missed at clinical evaluation. Hermansky-Pudlak (HPS) syndrome is a rare genetic metabolic disorder with subtype specific clinical associations most prevalent in Puerto Rico with strong link to consanguinity. HPS is usually associated with albinism, visual impairment and a qualitative platelet dysfunction due to absence of dense granules. Ceroid accumulation can be associated with inflammatory bowel disease, pulmonary fibrosis and kidney disease. Ten variants have been described with types 1, 2 and 4 associated with severe disease whilst type 3, 5 and 6 is associated with mild disease. Little is known about types 7, 8, 9 and 10. A Caucasian adult female presented with a history of intermittent episodes of severe bleeding. She carried the diagnosis of probable von Willebrand's disease at presentation. This particular patient did not respond to cryoprecipitate infusion but bleeding stopped secondary to infusion of normal platelets, a clue to a platelet storage disorder. Hence she was re-investigated for a bleeding disorder and initial coagulation testing identified abnormal platelet aggregation and amplitude pattern to epinephrine. She was subsequently evaluated with platelet transmission electron microscopy and platelet flow cytometry at the Mayo Clinic Hematopathology. Platelet TEM showed complete absence of dense granules and a normal flow cytometry. HPS was suspected and initial genetic studies identified a variant genetic abnormality. Further studies were done at the NIH. Classical clinical features of HPS like nystagmus, and ocular albinism was not identified at initial neurological and ophthalmologic examination. But more detailed evaluation revealed subclinical oculocutaneous albinism. Genome wide SNP analysis showed regions of homozygosity including HPS 1 and HPS 6; deletions were not identified in these genes. Full length HPS1 transcript was amplified by PCR of genomic DNA. Targeted next-generation sequencing identified a novel homozygous missense variant [c.383T>C (p.V128A)] in HPS6. Reduced HPS6 mRNA levels were found in the patient's skin fibroblasts compared to cells from patients with HPS-1 and normal control cells. HPS6 protein expression in the patient's cells was also low and approximately 60% lower than that of normal cells. HPS is a rare platelet storage disorder that can often be missed. Platelet aggregation tests need to be followed up by platelet TEM and genetic testing to definitively diagnose this condition. Further work up has defined a new missense variant by SNP analysis, next generation sequencing and fibroblast culture. It is important to identify the subtype of HPS, because certain subtypes of HPS (HPS 1, 2 and 4) have clinical manifestations like progressive pulmonary fibrosis. Identification of the platelet storage disorder also helps in management of the bleeding diathesis. Disclosures No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.
Limitations of Current Plasma VonWillebrand Factor (VWF) Activity Tests: A Comprehensive Comparison of Five VWF Activity Assays.

Blood | October 14, 2019 | Volume: 112 | Issue: 11 | Pages: 3376-3376

10.1182/blood.v112.11.3376.3376

Abstract Accurate measurement of plasma von Willebrand factor (VWF) activity is essential for the laboratory diagnosis and treatment monitoring of von Willebrand disease (VWD). Currently available VWF activity assays include VWF ristocetin cofactor activity by manual light transmission platelet aggregometry (VWF:RCo–Agg) or flow cytometry (VWF:RCo–FL), collagen I and III binding activity (VWF:Co–I and –III) (Technozym), and platelet activity by latex agglutination (VWF:Lx) (Instrumental Laboratory). In this study we evaluated and compared the accuracy and precision of these 5 assay methods. Plasma samples from 11 normal donors and 41 patients categorized as type 1 (n=20) or type 2 (n=21) VWD based on clinical evaluation, fVIII:C activity, VWF:RCo–Agg, VWF antigen (VWF:Ag) level and plasma VWF multimer analysis by agarose gel electrophoresis were assayed for VWF activity by VWF:RCo–FL, VWF:Co–I, VWF:Co–III and VWF:Lx methods. The VWF:Ag/VWF activity ratio by VWF activity assay method was calculated for each sample. For normal donors and type I VWD patients, VWF:RCo–FL and VWF:Lx correlated well with VWF:RCo–Agg (R2=0.87, and 0.97, respectively), while VWF:Co–I and –III were lower compared to VWF:RCo-Agg. For type 2 VWD patients, different VWF:Ag/VWF activity ratio cutoffs (range 0.3–0.7) were used (Figure). Both VWF:RCo–Agg and –FL were sensitive (95%) and specific (97%) for type 2 VWD while the VWF:Lx was slightly less sensitive (81%) but was very specific (100%). VWF:Co–I and –III were the least sensitive (<90%) and specific (<90%); both methods had high false positive and negative rates for type 2 VWD. In Summary, for normals and type 1 VWD patients, VWF:RCo–FL and VWF:Lx correlate well with VWF:RCo–Agg and have similar sensitivities and specificities for type 2 VWD. VWF:Co–I and –III are unreliable for assessing plasma VWF activity.
Indolent Mantle Cell Lymphoma: A Distinct Subgroup Characterized by Leukemic Phase Disease without Lymphadenopathy.

Blood | October 13, 2019 | Volume: 114 | Issue: 22 | Pages: 3937-3937

10.1182/blood.v114.22.3937.3937

Abstract Abstract 3937 Poster Board III-873 Introduction Mantle cell lymphoma (MCL), defined by the pathognomic CCND1/IGH translocation, commonly presents with lymphadenopathy and has an aggressive clinical course with poor survival. However, a minority of patients with MCL present with lymphocytosis without substantial adenopathy. The clinical and pathologic features of this group of patients are not currently well understood. Methods Patients with monoclonal B-cell lymphocytosis, positive CCND1/IGH translocation status by FISH analysis and absence of lymphadenopathy were identified in our institutional B-cell lymphoproliferative disorder database. A comprehensive review of clinical, laboratory, and histopathologic features was conducted. Results of ancillary immunophenotypic, molecular genetic, and cytogenetic studies were reviewed. Univariate survival analysis was performed using the method of Kaplan and Meier. Result We identified a total of 35 patients meeting the selection criteria (10 female and 25 male; median age 66 yrs, range 41-86). The median absolute lymphocyte count at presentation was 8.7 × 109/L (range 2.7-180). Eleven patients subsequently developed adenopathy (MCL-LN) while 24 patients had persistent lymphocytosis without adenopathy (MCL-PB). There were no significant differences in age, gender, absolute leukocyte count, percent bone marrow involvement by lymphoma, or immunophenotypic features of the neoplastic B-cells between these 2 subgroups at initial evaluation. All 11 MCL-LN (100%) and 14 of the 24 MCL-PB patients (58%) had splenomegaly at presentation. Morphologic and immunophenotypic features in peripheral blood (n=35), bone marrow (n=34), lymph node (n=7), spleen (n=7) and other involved tissues (n=4) were typical of MCL in 34 patients. One patient had an unusual disease recurrence resembling hairy cell leukemia, but was retained in the analysis given the persistence of the CCND1/IGH abnormality and molecular evidence of clonal identity with previous specimens. All patients with MCL-LN and 12/24 (50%) of patients with MCL-PB received therapy including R-CHOP, cladribine, or rituximab. The remaining 12 MCL-PB patients (50%) were managed expectantly. Patients with MCL-PB (median survival of 156 months from diagnosis) had a significantly better survival than patients with MCL-LN (13 months) regardless of splenic involvement (P=0.0002) (Figure 1). Conclusion Among patients with MCL presenting in leukemic phase without adenopathy, we have identified 2 subgroups with distinct clinical outcomes. Patients who do not develop subsequent lymph node involvement (MCL-PB) have a generally more favorable clinical outcome. These findings imply fundamental differences in the pathobiology and molecular oncogenesis between these subgroups, suggesting the presence of distinct MCL entities. Disclosures: Zent: Genentech, Bayer, Genzyme, Novartis: Research Funding. Shanafelt:Genentech: Research Funding; Hospira: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding; Polyphenon E International: Research Funding; Celgene: Research Funding; Cephalon: Research Funding; Bayer Health Care Pharmaceuticals: Research Funding. Kay:Gnentch: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding; Celgene: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding; Hospire: Research Funding; Polyphenon Pharma: Research Funding; Sanofi-Aventis: Research Funding; Biogenc-Ides: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Genmab: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees. Witzig:Novartis: Research Funding.
Predictors of Clinically Significant Bleeding in Patients with Aortic Stenosis,

Blood | October 13, 2019 | Volume: 118 | Issue: 21 | Pages: 3315-3315

10.1182/blood.v118.21.3315.3315

Abstract Abstract 3315 Background: Acquired von Willebrand syndrome (AVWS) is a frequent cause of bleeding in patients with severe aortic stenosis (AS). The goals of this study were to understand the incidence and patterns of bleeding in patients with various degree of AS and identify predictors for bleeding. Methods: Ninety-one patients (59 men, median age 79 years) with mild, moderate or severe aortic stenosis (AS) (n=64) or heart valve replacement (n=27) were studied. Clinically significant bleeding was determined based on the 2008 NHLBI VWD diagnostic guideline (Haemophilia. 2008, 14(2):171–232). We recorded blood counts, vital signs, mean gradient, peak aortic velocity, aortic valve area (AVA) and valve area index (AVAi), time velocity integral ratio (TVI ratio), VWF antigen (VWF:Ag), VWF activity by latex immunoturbidity assay (VWF:Lx), VWF multimer analysis, and closure times of platelet function analysis ADP and epinephrine cartridges (PFA–CADP and –CEPI). VWF high molecular weight multimer (HMWM) losses were graded as normal/mild or severe when compared to pooled plasma samples from normal donors. Associations with bleeding tendency were explored using single variable and multivariable logistic regression models. Results: Of the 91 patients, 29 (32%) were taking warfarin, and 55 (60%) were taking aspirin. None received a thienopyridine. Clinically significant bleeding was seen in 27 (30%) patients with gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding being most common (n=13). Nine patients who bled required hospitalization. Bleeding tendency was more common in patients with a severe loss of HMWM (OR=3.18, 95% CI: 1.06–9.71, P=0.039) and in patients with AS-associated symptoms (OR=3.02, 95% CI: 1.14–8.24, P=0.027). No other echocardiographic, laboratory, or clinical features demonstrated a statistically significant association with bleeding tendency. Conclusion: The incidence of clinically significant bleeding in this population was about 30% with GI being the most common site. Bleeding tendency was associated with severe HMWM loss and AS-associated symptoms. This study underscores the importance of acquisition of a history of bleeding, cardiac symptoms, and VWF multimer analysis in clinical management of AS patients. Disclosures: No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.
Predictors of Acquired Von Willebrand Syndrome in Patients with Aortic Stenosis,

Blood | October 12, 2019 | Volume: 118 | Issue: 21 | Pages: 3318-3318

10.1182/blood.v118.21.3318.3318

Abstract Abstract 3318 Background: Acquired von Willebrand syndrome (AVWS) due to loss of high molecular weight multimers (HMWM), is a frequent cause of bleeding in aortic stenosis (AS), and is reversed by valve replacement. The goal of this study was to explore predictors of AVWS in patients with AS. Methods: A total of 91 patients (59 men, median age 79 years) with AS (n=64) or heart valve replacement (n=27) were included. We recorded peripheral blood count, vital signs, mean gradient (MG), peak velocity (peak vel), aortic valve time velocity integral (AV-TVI), aortic valve area (AVA) and valve area index (AVAi), time velocity integral ratio (TVI ratio), VWF antigen (VWF:Ag), VWF activity by latex immunoturbidity assay (VWF:Lx), VWF multimer analysis, closure times of platelet function analyzer ADP and epinephrine cartridges (PFA-CADP and –CEPI). HMWM losses were graded as normal, mild or severe when compared to HMWM analyses of pooled plasma samples from normal donors. Potential predictors of HMWM loss were explored using logistic regression analysis. Results: Of the 91 patients, 42 (46%) had loss of HMWM (23 mild and 19 severe). In single variable logistic regression analysis, AVWS was associated with a low AVA (<1.0 cm2; OR=5.08, P<0.001), and low AVAi (<0.60 cm2/m2; OR=5.54, P<0.001), low TVI ratio (<0.25; OR=10.80, P<0.001), prolonged PFA-CADP (≥121 sec; OR=6.76, P<0.001), and low VWF:Lx/Ag (≤0.8; OR=8.06, P=0.008). Moderate peak vel (3–4 m/sec) and high peak vel (>4 m/sec) were associated with loss of HMWM (OR[vs. <3 m/sec]=5.80 and 37.70 respectively, P<0.001) as were moderate MG (25–40 mmHg) and high MG (>40 mmHg), (OR [vs. <25mmHg]=4.50 and 32.50 respectively, P<0.001). In exploratory multivariable analysis, mean gradient remained one of the strongest predictor of loss of HMWM. The estimated sensitivity of MG (≥25mmHg) in diagnosing AVWS was 83% (35/42, 95% CI: 69%-93%) and estimated specificity was 71% (35/49, 95% CI: 57%-83%). Considering the very strong correlation with mean gradient, we also considered the diagnostic utility of peak vel. Peak vel≥ 3 m/sec had a sensitivity of 89% (38/42, 95% CI: 77%-97%) and a specificity of 59% (29/49, 95% CI: 44%-73%) in detecting loss of HMWM. Conclusion: Our data suggest that mean gradient (>25 mmHg) and peak vel (≥ 3 m/sec), both derived from the Doppler aortic valve velocity envelope, are accurate predictors for AS-AVWS, and should be incorporated into algorithmic approaches to laboratory screening for AVWS. Disclosures: No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.
A Comparison of Von Willebrand Factor Indexes in Heartmate II Compared to Heartware Left Ventricular Assist Devices

Blood | October 12, 2019 | Volume: 126 | Issue: 23 | Pages: 2306-2306

10.1182/blood.v126.23.2306.2306

Abstract Background: Von Willebrand factor (VWF) is a multimeric glycoprotein synthesized in endothelium and megakaryocytes. Elevated total VWF antigen has been associated with arterial thrombosis, while in patients with left ventricular assist devices (LVAD), loss of high molecular weight multimers is associated with spontaneous bleeding. We hypothesized that the lower rotational speed of the Heartware LVAD would be associated with less severe disruption of VWF. Methods: A total of 22 patients were included. We compared samples from a) 17 patients with Heartmate II LVAD (HM II), 76% male, median age 67 (54-73) years, 24% non-white, 45 (33-59) months after implant, with b) 5 patients with Heartware (HW) LVAD, all male, age 64 (59-65) years, 20% non-white, 27 (14-29) months after implant. All patients received warfarin. All HW patients took aspirin, while 82% of HM II patients took aspirin. Samples were analyzed for VWF antigen, activity, platelet function analyzer-100 collagen adenosine diphosphate closure time (PFA) and VWF multimers by gel electrophoresis. Multimers were assessed qualitatively and quantitatively by dividing mers > 15 by mers 2-15 (multimer ratio) and with a normalized multimer ratio (multimer ratio of patient / normal plasma control from the same gel). Results: Although flow rates did not differ significantly between HM II and HW, 5.2 (4.6-6.5) versus 4.3 (4.2-5.4) liters per minute respectively, rotational speeds were very different, mean 9472 versus 2680 rpms, p<0.0001). There were no differences in hemoglobin, hematocrit, or platelet count at the time of sampling. Qualitative VWF multimers were abnormal in all patients, and PFA was non-clotting in 88% of HM II patients and 80% of HW patients. VWF activity to antigen ratio was not different: HM II 0.68 (0.63-0.74) versus HW 0.70 (0.63-0.71). However, VWF antigen was significantly higher in HM II patients, 199 (174-227) compared to HW, 139 (122-160), p=0.039 and the normalized VWF multimer ratio was significantly lower, suggesting greater loss of high molecular weight multimers in HM II, 0.43 (0.41-0.48) compared to HW, 0.53 (0.48-0.56), p=0.0025 (figure). Conclusion: The lower rotational speed associated with the Heartware LVAD appears to produce less elevation of VWF antigen, and slightly less loss of VWF high molecular weight multimers compared to the Heartmate II LVAD. Additional studies are needed to describe whether or not lower pump thrombosis rates and rates of spontaneous bleeding are associated with these differences. Figure 1. Figure 1. Disclosures No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.
Clinical Spectrum of Germline Mutations with Predisposition to Myeloid Neoplasms- 2016 World Health Organization Classification Update

Blood | October 12, 2019 | Volume: 128 | Issue: 22 | Pages: 300-300

10.1182/blood.v128.22.300.300

Abstract Background: The 2016 revision to the World Health Organization (WHO) classification of myeloid neoplasms has specifically categorized germline mutations that are associated with myeloid clonal evolution (Arber et al. Blood 2016). This group consists of myeloid neoplasms with an isolated germline predisposition (CEBPA, DDX41), myeloid neoplasms associated with congenital thrombocytopenia (ETV6, RUNX1, ANKRD26) and germline myeloid neoplasms with multi-organ dysfunction (GATA2, chromosomal breakage disorders, telomere biology disorders etc). We carried out this study to describe the clinical spectrum of germline disorders with predisposition to myeloid neoplasms as categorized by the 2016 WHO classification revision. Methods: After Institutional Review Board (IRB) approval, the adult and pediatric bone marrow failure syndrome database (1990-2016) and the electronic medical record were queried for germline disorders involving GATA2, CEBPA, DDX41, ETV6, RUNX1, ANKRD26, Down syndrome and Noonan syndrome. Chromosomal breakage assays (Diepoxybutane/Mitomycin-C), flow-fluorescent in-situ hybridization (FISH) for telomere length assessment, Fanconi anemia complementation assays and Sanger/Next Generation sequencing (NGS) for the aforementioned germline disorders with myeloid predisposition were carried out in Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA)-certified laboratories. These disorders were then classified based on the 2016 WHO classification revision. Results : 54 individuals (37 families) were included in the study. Eleven (20%) patients belonging to 5 families were identified as having germline mutations with a preexisting platelet disorder: ETV6 (n=1), ANKRD26 (n=5), RUNX1 (n=5). Forty-three (79%) patients (32 families) had inherited syndromes with multi-organ dysfunction: GATA2 (n=11, 26%), bone marrow failure syndromes (n=14, 33%) and telomere biology disorder (n=14, 33%). There was one patient with neurofibromatosis with a germline PTPN11 mutation who developed juvenile myelomonocytic leukemia, while there were three patients with Down syndrome; 2 with transient abnormal myelopoiesis and one who developed acute megakaryocytic leukemia. The clinical phenotype, prevalence and characteristics of myeloid clonal evolution and outcomes are presented in Table 1. No patients with germline CEBPA or DDX41 mutations were identified. Patients with germline platelet disorders did not have any prominent non-hematological manifestations. Erythrocytosis (20%) with long-standing thrombocytopenia (100%) was a unique feature associated with ANKRD26 mutations. Non-hematologic clues such as human papillomavirus (HPV)-driven warts, primary lymphedema (Emberger syndrome) and frequent atypical infections with monocytopenia were seen in patients with germline GATA2 mutations, and preceded myeloid clonal evolution (morphologic, cytogenetic and molecular). Notably, the age at presentation and penetrance of myeloid transformation was variable, with individuals from the same family developing symptoms during the first decade of life and others remaining asymptomatic to date (fifth decade). Somatic ASXL1 mutations were detected in all 3 (100%) patients with GATA2 mutations and in one patient with ANKRD26 mutation that developed myeloid clonal evolution. In our study myeloid clonal evolution was seen in 40% with RUNX1 mutations, 27% with GATA2 mutations, and 20% with ANKRD26 mutations. We could not calculate the same for bone marrow failure syndromes as the total number of cases seen are still being assessed. Outcomes with allogeneic stem cell transplantation were favorable in appropriately selected patients (Table 1). Conclusion : The 2016 WHO revision to the classification of myeloid neoplasms highlights the importance of recognition and molecular characterization of germline mutations (syndromic and non-syndromic) with risk for myeloid clonal evolution. While some of these disorders (GATA2, Fanconi anemia, telomere biology disorders) may have important non-hematological clues, many present with isolated thrombocytopenia (RUNX1, ETV6). The age and frequency of myeloid evolution is highly variable. Acquisition of somatic ASXL1 mutations at the time of clonal myeloid transformation highlights the role of epigenetic dysregulation in disease evolution. Disclosures Kenderian: Novartis: Patents & Royalties, Research Funding.