G. Bries MD, PhD

Diagnosis and treatment of AL amyloidosis: Belgian guidelines

SUMMARY

Immunoglobulin light chain (AL) amyloidosis is a rare and serious disease due to the deposition of amyloid fibrils. In the past years, improvements have been made in the diagnosis, treatment and response criteria. Based on an extensive review of the recent literature on AL amyloidosis, we propose practical recommenddations that can be used by Belgian haematologists as a reference for daily practice. Management of other types of amyloidosis will not be covered by this review. Levels of evidence and grades of recommendations are based on previously published methods.¹ We recommend participation in clinical trials to gain knowledge in this evolving field.

(BELG J HEMATOL 2020;11(8):343-56)

Practical management of newly-diagnosed multiple myeloma: 2018 update for transplant eligible patients

With the introduction of immunomodulatory agents and proteasome inhibitors, major improvements have been achieved in the treatment and outcome of multiple myeloma. Different treatment combinations are now in use and newer therapies are being developed. Nevertheless, autologous stem cell transplantation remains the corner stone of therapy for fit, newly-diagnosed multiple myeloma patients. Based on an extensive review of the recent literature, we propose recommendations on myeloma care, to be used by haematologists as a reference for daily practice.

(BELG J HEMATOL 2019;10(3):113–21)

Practical management of newly-diagnosed multiple myeloma: 2018 update for transplant eligible patients

SUMMARY

With the introduction of immunomodulatory agents (IMiDs) and proteasome inhibitors (PIs), major improvements have been achieved in the treatment and outcome of multiple myeloma (MM). Different treatment combinations are now in use and newer therapies are being developed. Nevertheless, autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) remains the corner stone of therapy for fit, newly-diagnosed MM patients. Based on an extensive review of the recent literature, we propose recommendations on myeloma care, to be used by haematologists as a reference for daily practice.

Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma presenting as a spontaneous rupture of the spleen

SUMMARY

In this hematocase, a patient is presented with a spontaneous rupture of the spleen due to massive splenomegaly caused by a previously undiagnosed diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. Diagnosis and differentiation of this non-Hodgkin lymphoma is discussed with attention for the prognostic implications of the results. The association between spontaneous rupture of the spleen and haematological malignancies is further explored by means of earlier described cases. A take home message is given regarding this rare initial presentation of a lymphoma since immediate surgical intervention is imperative in these cases.

(BELG J HEMATOL 2017;8(6):239–43)

Update on therapy of relapsed and refractory multiple myeloma

SUMMARY

The prognosis for multiple myeloma patients has improved substantially over the past decade with the development of more effective chemotherapeutic agents and regimens that possess a high level of anti-tumour activity. However, nearly all multiple myeloma patients ultimately relapse, even those who experience a complete response to initial therapy. Management of relapsed disease remains a critical aspect of multiple myeloma care and an important area of ongoing research. This manuscript from the Belgian Haematology Society multiple myeloma subgroup provides some recommendations on the management of relapsed disease.

(BELG J HEMATOL 2017;8(2):53–65)

PP33 Targeted next-generation sequencing using a pan-myeloid panel in myelodysplastic neoplasms: implementation in clinical diagnostics

P15 Treatment patterns of Waldenström’s macroglobulinemia in Belgium