VJHemOnc Podcast

Myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs) are a class of hematological cancers characterized by the excessive production of a particular blood cell. MPNs is an umbrella term covering disorders such as myelofibrosis (MF), polycythemia vera (PV), and essential thrombocythemia (ET). Pathological features are a key aspect of MPN diagnostics, hence improvements in digitally visualizing pathology and the use of machine learning for tracking patients will aid the field. Multiple clinical trials are underway for different therapeutic agents, including calreticulin-directed vaccines and antibodies for ET and MF. There are three approved JAK inhibitors for MF: ruxolitinib, fedratinib and pacritinib. An evolving question is whether combinations of JAK inhibitors will further the benefits observed in monotherapy, and if combinations will go as far as achieving disease modification.

In this exclusive podcast, leading experts Claire Harrison, MD, DM, FRCP, FRCPath, Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK, Ruben Mesa, MD, UT Health San Antonio MD Anderson Cancer Center, San Antonio, TX, and Jean-Jacques Kiladjian, MD, PhD, Saint-Louis Hospital & Paris Diderot University, Paris, France, hold a fascinating discussion on current developments in the management and treatment of MPNs.

Amyloidosis is a heterogeneous disease that results from the deposition of abnormal protein aggregates in various tissues and organs. The treatment and diagnosis of amyloidosis remain a challenge, and experts agree that there are several unmet needs in the field. In recent years, there have been advances in clinical trials investigating novel treatment approaches for amyloidosis, providing patients with more hope.

In this exclusive podcast, Angela Dispenzieri, MD, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, shares some insights into the treatment and management of light chain (AL) amyloidosis, highlighting the importance of early diagnosis and raising awareness of this disease. Dr Dispenzieri also discusses important clinical trials, unmet needs and challenges in the field, and the promise of novel agents being evaluated for the treatment of this disease.

While the treatment of multiple myeloma has seen several recent advances, challenges still remain when approaching patients with high-risk disease, and experts agree that incorporating genomic testing is an important step in treatment. In the UK, the Muk Nine b: OPTIMUM trial is a pivotal trial looking into the treatment of high-risk patients, providing insights into the importance of genomics. 

In this exclusive podcast, UK experts Graham Jackson MBBS, FRCP, FRCPath, MD, Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle, UK, and Martin Kaiser, MD, FRCP, FRCPath, The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK, share some insights into myeloma treatment from a UK perspective, discussing the importance of genomics, key updates from the OPTIMUM, MASTER, and Myeloma XI trials, and the importance of chromosome 1q.

In recent years, there have been many advances in the treatment of lymphoma and chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) in the UK. Several novel agents and clinical trials are emerging in both lymphoma and CLL, providing more options for patients. 

In this exclusive podcast, leading experts Kate Cwynarski, FRCP, FCRPath, PhD, University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK, and Andrew Davies, MRCP, PhD, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK, hold a fascinating discussion on recent updates in the lymphoma and CLL treatment landscape from a UK perspective. Dr Cwynarski and Dr Davies discuss several trials, including the POLARIX trial (NCT03274492), the FLAIR trial (ISRCTN01844152), the MARIETTA trial (NCT02329080), novel promising agents, and the future treatment of lymphoma. 

Multiple myeloma is a heterogenous and complex disease, with many experts agreeing that screening for precursor conditions can improve patient outcomes. With several new technologies emerging and an increased understanding of precursor conditions, it is evident that early intervention and interception are important steps in finding a cure for this disease. 

In this exclusive podcast, Irene Ghobrial, MD, of Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, discusses the importance of early interception in multiple myeloma and how screening and risk stratification can help with finding a cure.