This issue addresses hypercoagulable states, such as antiphospholipid antibody syndrome, cancer-associated thrombosis, and coagulopathy associated with sepsis.? New anticoagulants discussed include oral Xa inhibitors, oral IIa inhibitors, agents for the treatment of HIT, and use of low molecular weight heparin to improve survival in cancer patients.

Thalassemia is discussed comprehensively by the authors in this issue.? Topics discussed include the population genetics and dynamimcs of thalassemia, alpha thalassemia, HbE/beta thalassemia, management of iron overload in thalassemia syndromes, allogeneic cellular gene therapy for hemoglobinopathies, cord blood transplantation for beta thalassemia major, and gene therapy for hemoglobin disorders.

Better therapy of acute leukemias depends ultimately on better understanding of the distinction between leukemic and normal progenitor cells. This hugely important new book describes the current knowledge of acute leukemia biology and discusses new classification systems that have arisen as a result of emerging insights into pathogenesis. Estey, Faderl and Kantarjian, who all work at the respected Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, Texas, USA, examine in detail advances in the treatment of particular types of acute leukemia. Their book also covers the management of acute leukemia in general as well as the development of new therapies. This book will be extremely useful to clinicians.

This issue provides the reader with a summary of evidence-based therapies of how to manage emergency care for cancer disorders.? Articles are dedicated to specific presentation syndromes, such as malignant epidural spinal cord compression, superior vena cava syndrome, and airway obstruction. These reviews update the reader on evidence-based therapies for these entities and highlight the emerging role of stent therapies. This issue also includes articles dealing with the neurological, renal, and metabolic (electrolyte and adrenal) emergencies encountered in the cancer patient. Also addressed are selected gastrointestinal presentations commonly encountered in cancer patients, such as the acute abdomen, gastrointestinal bleeding, and hepatic encephalopathy. The issue concludes with several articles dedicated to hematologic considerations including venous thrombosis, acquired bleeding disturbances, and myeloproliferative/hyperviscosity syndromes.

Major strides have been made in the treatment and understanding of Myelodysplasia.? The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved three new drugs for the treatment of MDS; new disease genes have been discovered; major insights have been made into the biology of the disorder; and animal models of MDS have been developed.? The articles in this issue illustrate the rapid progress in MDS research, from molecular pathophysiology to improved therapies.? Insights into the biology of MDS, the development of model systems to study MDS, and the application of new technologies with unprecedented power to interrogate the cancer genome promise to increase the rate of discovery, transforming our understanding of MDS and leading to improvements in the treatment this disease.

Chronic immune thrombocytopenia is a disease in which the immune system destroys platelets (blood cells involved in the clotting process). Patients with ITP have abnormal bruising and bleeding, and severe disease can be life threatening. For many patients, standard drug treatments are not effective, and many of the drugs used may have significant side effects with long-term use. Among the articles in this issue, some focus on the traditional and newer treatments for the disease. Other articles focus on diagnosis and treatment of the disease in pregnancy, lymphoproliferative disorders, in thyroid disease, in rheumatologic disorders, and in children. Also discussed are infectious causes.

Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is the most common malignancy diagnosed in children, representing nearly one third of all pediatric cancers. The annual incidence of ALL is about 30 cases per million people, with a peak incidence in children aged 2-5 years. Although a few cases are associated with inherited genetic syndromes, the cause of ALL remains largely unknown. This issue presents articles that discuss current thinking on the diagnosis and treatment of the disease. Articles specifically emphasize molecular genetics, allogeneic stem cell transplantation, and treatments including, clofarabine, nelarabine, rituximab, and PegAsp.

The understanding of hemostasis physiology has been considerably advanced by models of kinetics and by the complicated interplay of cells and soluble coagulation factors. How this physiology is currently, or will eventually, be reflected in clinical laboratory testing is the subject of this monograph; this information is key for laboratorians to implement physiologic concepts into practical data and for clinicians to understand the basis of and therefore correctly treat hemostatic disease. Many thousands of patients present with bleeding disorders or bleeding complications of other diseases, and millions of individuals suffer the morbidity and mortality of thromboembolic complications. How laboratory testing confronts the challenge of predicting different hemostatic risks and guiding therapy is the critical subtext of the chapters in this monograph. New developments in hemostasis physiology have identified thrombin as an important, if not central, coordinator of hemostatic function and thus a target for measurement to assess hemostatic function and risk. Whether such measurements as endogenous thrombin potential or thromboelastography will accurately predict and/or quantitate global hemostatic function is an important question. Modeling the clinical risks of bleeding or thromboembolism currently uses the laboratory presence or absence of particular risk factors, but our clinical understanding of risk appears to more closely approximate a dynamic model, even within individual patients. Therefore, testing for platelet dysfunction or comprehending the functional implications of a lupus anticoagulant may rely on our evolving comprehension of hemostasis phyisology and perhaps require more sophisticated interpretation of clinical predictors of hemostatic risk. This monograph aims to shed some light in these areas and promote investigation of such key hemostasis issues.

This issue focuses on neoplastic hematopathology. Thirteen articles written by leading experts in the field cover a number of specific disease entities including the acute leukemias, myelodysplastic syndromes, myeloproliferative diseases, multiple myeloma and the chronic lymphoid leukemias. The spectrum of lymphoid cancers and related disorders is also covered, including articles on reactive and atypical lymphoproliferative disorders, Hodgkin lymphoma, small B cell malignancies, the aggressive B cell lymphomas, as well as Burkitt lymphoma and the entire spectrum of peripheral T cell lymphomas. Finally, two more generic articles cover current issues in bone marrow pathology for lymphoma diagnosis and staging and finally a cutting-edge chapter on molecular diagnostics in hematopathology.

Plasmapheresis is a therapeutic tool used to treat a wide range of disease processes, and in which the priority aim is to ensure sufficient plasma exchange to reduce or eliminate symptoms resulting from the action of pathogenic elements vehiculised in the plasma. Scientific selective apheresis with principles of evidence-based medicine involves the application of one of the oldest therapeutic modalities (bleeding), widely used between the fourth century B.C. and the second industrial revolution. This book provides information on the use of plasmapheresis during pregnancy; therapeutic use of autologous plasma for the treatment of dry eye disease; and therapeutic plasma exchange in the neurological setting. It also discusses intravenous immunoglobulins. During the past decades intravenous immunoglobulins (IVIG) have gained more and more popularity for the treatment of a wide range of diseases and conditions. This treatment is extensively used in immune deficits, autoimmune thrombocytopenia, Kawasaki's disease, for the prevention of infectious complications due to hypogammaglobulinaemia secondary to myeloma, chronic lymphatic leukaemia and post-bone marrow and stem cell transplantation, in Guillain-Barre syndrome, etc. IV-Ig is obtained from the plasma of healthy blood donors and contains normal, polyclonal, polyspecific immunoglobins (Ig), mostly consisting of intact IgG. These antibodies are directed against non-self-antigens, self-antigens (natural autoantibodies), and other antibodies (idiotypic antibodies). The administration of intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) is generally safe and well tolerated. However, the treatment of autoimmune disorders usually requires high dose therapy (1-2 g/kg) that may result in a greater frequency of side effects and adverse events. This book discusses several topics including the clinical application of intravenous immunoglobulins in autoimmune mediated ocular inflammatory diseases; complications of intravenous immunoglobulin therapy; clinical uses; and side effects.

This book provides a comprehensive and up-to-date overview of the pathologic features of common benign and malignant hematopoietic disorders in spleen and liver for practicing pathologists, hematopathologists and clinicians. The authors are from large academic centers, affiliated teaching hospitals and central referral clinics and are experienced in the diagnosis of hematopoietic disorders in the spleen and liver. The book consists of 21 chapters, with the first three chapters devoted to normal histologic features, conventional, cytogenetic and molecular studies necessary for the diagnosis of hematopoietic disorders in the spleen and liver. Chapters 4 to 17 cover the primary and secondary mature B- and T/NK cell lymphomas, Hodgkin lymphoma, B and T cell lymphoblastic leukemias, myeloid neoplasms, histiocytic and dendritic neoplasms, and post-transplant disorders including post transplant lymphoproliferative disorders. Chapters 19 to 21 encompass red blood cell disorders, other benign hematologic disorders and infectious/inflammatory disorders that could mimic hematopoietic neoplasms. These chapters are formatted on specific hematopoietic neoplasms to comprise epidemiology, etiology, pathogenesis, morphology, immunophenotyping, molecular genetics, prognosis and brief treatment guidelines. Diagnostic caveats are included in order to have a quick review of the key points in each chapter. Diagnostic Pathology of Hematopoietic Disorders of Spleen and Liver covers most, if not all of the benign and malignant hematopoietic disorders in the spleen and liver and serves as a practical and useful resource for general pathologists and hematopathologists.

There are today five major proteins in plasma fractioning. In the near future, other fractions could also be used as therapeutic agents. But perhaps they could be used for alternative, non-therapeutic applications? For example, producing human culture media with specific ingredients for biotechnology research might also be of use. Whatever the future may hold, there is one essential question: in today's world of cellular and genetic engineering, are extracted therapeutic proteins still of any relevance? For a clear and up-to-date view of recent developments in blood-protein-separation technology, this book will prove an invaluable resource.

This book covers recent advances in the understanding and management of essential hematological pathologies. In addition to updates on Hodgkin's lymphoma, acute myeloid leukemia and other disorders, it provides essential information on transplant pathology, and the molecular and genetic aspects of hematological disorders. Offering a practical approach to lymphoma diagnosis, the book will help hematologists and pathologists alike make accurate diagnoses in keeping with the latest classifications and methodologies. A wealth of photographs and algorithms help readers understand the laboratory approach to the diagnosis of hematological disorders, reflecting the latest advances in the field. The book offers a valuable resource for residents of MD pathology, DM hematopathology and clinical hematology, as well as practitioners of hematology.

This comprehensive book is written to inform and improve outcomes of patients in need of blood management during surgical procedures. Information is presented in an accessible format, allowing for immediate use in clinical practice. Beginning with an overview of the history of blood transfusions, early chapters present the foundational information needed to comprehend information in later chapters. Nuanced procedures, drugs, and techniques are covered, including new biologicals to assist clotting and blood substitutes. Further discussions focus on potential complications seen in blood transfusions, such as diseases of the coagulation system, pathogen transmissions, and acute lung injuries. Chapters also examine the complexities of treating specific demographics, of which include the geriatric patient and patients suffering from substance abuse. Essentials of Blood Product Management in Anesthesia Practice is an invaluable guide for anesthesiologists, surgeons, trauma physicians, and solid organ transplant providers.

Blood substitutes are solutions designed for use in patients who need blood transfusions, but for whom whole blood is not available, or is not safe. This interest has intensified in the wake of the AIDS and hepatitis C epidemics. Blood Substitutes describes the rationale, current approaches, clinical efficacy, and design issues for all blood substitutes now in clinical trials. The many summary diagrams and tables help make the book accessible to readers such as surgeons and blood bankers, who have less technical expertise than the biochemists and hematologists who are designing and testing blood substitutes.
* Includes chapters necessary to the understanding of blood substitutes, including history, toxicity, physiology, and clinical applications
* Presents detailed descriptions of the various products that have been developed and have advanced to clinical trials, and some that are in earlier states of development

Adolescent females experience a variety of blood disorders that are often unique to this patient population. As they go through puberty, they are uniquely poised to encounter various bleeding and thrombotic disorders once they attain menarche, start to have menstrual bleeding, and require hormonal therapy. This may in turn lead to other medical conditions, such as anemia and iron deficiency. Pregnancy encountered by some adolescents can pose hematologic challenges specifically in regards to bleeding and thrombotic disorders. In addition, adolescent females are at risk to develop immune mediated hematologic disorders, such as immune thrombocytopenia, auto-immune hemolytic anemia, and thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura, as well as vitamin deficiencies due to pernicious anemia. Sickle cell disease, thalassemia and bone marrow failure disorders in the adolescent female poses unique challenges that need to be addressed with special care and attention. Knowledge about these various blood disorders in adolescent females is crucial for the treating physician in order to accurately diagnose and optimally manage these teenagers. Otherwise, it can affect their overall health, causing hematologic and gynecologic issues, poor quality of life, neurocognitive impairments, and poor psycho-social development, all of which can lead to various complications immediately and into adulthood. This book provides a comprehensive, state-of-the art overview of blood disorders in female adolescents. The text presents new data about bleeding disorders that affect the female adolescent, including bleeding disorders, thromboembolism, thrombophilia, anemia, sickle cell disease and thalassemia, disorders od hemostasis and thrombosis in pregnancy, immune hematology and bone marrow failure disorders; reviews our current understanding of these disorders; outlines recent research findings; and spotlights multi-disciplinary approaches, evaluation and treatment modalities to combat these blood disorders. Written by experts in the field, Hematology in the Adolescent Female is a valuable resource for clinicians and practitioners who treat and manage female adolescents with blood disorders.

Crash Course - your effective every-day study companion PLUS the perfect antidote for exam stress! Save time and be assured you have the essential information you need in one place to excel on your course and achieve exam success. A winning formula now for over 20 years, each series volume has been fine-tuned and fully updated - with an improved full-colour layout tailored to make your life easier. Especially written by senior students or junior doctors - those who understand what is essential for exam success - with all information thoroughly checked and quality assured by expert Faculty Advisers, the result are books which exactly meet your needs and you know you can trust. Each chapter guides you succinctly through the full range of curriculum topics, integrating clinical considerations with the relevant basic science and avoiding unnecessary or confusing detail. A range of text boxes help you get to the hints, tips and key points you need fast! A fully revised self-assessment section matching the latest exam formats is included to check your understanding and aid exam preparation. The accompanying enhanced, downloadable eBook completes this invaluable learning package. Series volumes have been honed to meet the requirements of today's medical students, although the range of other health students and professionals who need rapid access to the essentials of haematology and immunology will also love the unique approach of Crash Course. Whether you need to get out of a fix or aim for a distinction Crash Course is for you! Provides the exam syllabus in one place - saves valuable revision time Written by senior students and recent graduates - those closest to what is essential for exam success Quality assured by leading Faculty Advisors - ensures complete accuracy of information Features the ever popular 'Hints and Tips' boxes and other useful aide-memoires - distilled wisdom from those in the know Updated self-assessment section matching the latest exam formats - confirm your understanding and improve exam technique fast

This book provides a comprehensive overview of benign hematologic disorders in children. Divided into nine sections, the text reviews common hematologic disorders or conditions that affect children, while providing state-of-the-art information on pathophysiology, diagnosis, treatment, and management strategies. The text begins with a section on hematopoiesis, and the next section covers red blood cell disorders. The following sections provide overviews of platelet disorders, white blood cell disorders, and coagulation disorders. The sixth and seventh sections discuss neonatal hematology and bone marrow failure syndrome. The eighth section reviews supportive care, while the final section covers miscellaneous subjects including pediatric vascular anomalies and complement dysregulation syndromes. Written by experts in the field, Benign Hematologic Disorders in Children: A Clinical Guide is a valuable resource for clinicians and practitioners who treat children afflicted with these disorders.