Hematology Pills

In this episode, Prof. Robin Foà and Dr. Filippo Milano are joined by Dr. Fred Appelbaum from the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center to reflect on the persistent challenges and evolving landscape of acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Unlike other hematologic malignancies that have seen major therapeutic revolutions, AML remains bound to the traditional 7+3 regimen, a reminder of how complex its biology truly is.

The conversation delves into the biological roots of AML, emphasizing that the disease originates in the myeloid stem cell—an essential element of hematopoiesis that cannot be eradicated without profound consequences. This fundamental limitation has slo...

In this episode, Prof. Robin Foà and Dr. Filippo Milano look back on twenty-five years of remarkable progress in the treatment of Philadelphia chromosome-positive acute lymphoblastic leukemia (Ph+ ALL). Once regarded as one of the most devastating hematologic malignancies, with prognosis considered among the worst in oncology, Ph+ ALL has undergone a dramatic transformation thanks to targeted therapies and innovative treatment strategies.

The conversation traces the pioneering decision to replace intensive chemotherapy with tyrosine kinase inhibitors and steroids, a bold approach that opened the way to higher remission rates and better tolerability, especially for older patients. From t...

In this episode, we delve into the evolving landscape of Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) treatment, with a focus on cutting-edge therapies and their impact on patient outcomes. We explore the rapid integration of CAR T-cell therapy, now being used earlier in treatment and its effects on survival rates. The discussion also addresses the shifting role of allogeneic transplantation, particularly in light of the economic and clinical advantages of newer therapies. We highlight the importance of minimal residual disease (MRD) monitoring and its ability to guide treatment decisions, potentially sparing patients from invasive procedures. Additionally, we examine the transformative effects...

In this episode, we delve into the transformative changes in allogeneic stem cell transplantation (SCT), a treatment once seen as a last resort for patients but now experiencing a renaissance. Despite the rise of therapies like immunotherapy and CAR-T cells, SCT continues to evolve and remains crucial, particularly with recent breakthroughs. A key focus of the discussion is the introduction of post-transplant cyclophosphamide (PTCy), a groundbreaking advancement in SCT that significantly reduces the incidence of graft-versus-host disease (GVHD), a major complication. PTCy has shown extremely low rates of both acute and chronic GVHD in randomized clinical trials, a major...

In this episode of Hematology Pills, Dr. Marco Ruella, Prof. Robin Foà, and Dr. Filippo Milano dive into the challenges of CAR T-cell therapy resistance. They explore key resistance mechanisms, including T-cell dysfunction, the tumor microenvironment, and antigen loss, such as CD19 in relapsed ALL. Dr. Ruella discusses promising strategies to overcome these hurdles, like dual-targeting approaches, and highlights the importance of improving CAR T-cell product quality and monitoring in clinical settings. The episode also touches on the inflammatory side effects, like cytokine release syndrome (CRS) and neurotoxicity (ICANS), and their potential for enhancing the anti-tumor effect. Tune in f...

In this episode of Hematology Pills, Professor Robin Foà speaks with Dr. Filippo Milano and Dr. Rahul Banerjee about the current role of CAR-T cell therapy in the treatment of multiple myeloma. The discussion touches on key aspects such as therapeutic potential, toxicity management, and the practical issues related to access. Aimed at clinicians and healthcare professionals, the episode provides a clear overview of both opportunities and limitations of this evolving approach.

Join Prof. Robin Foà (Sapienza University of Rome) and Dr.Filippo Milano (Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle) as they explore the evolving landscape of CAR-T cell therapies. This episode of Hematology Pills offers concise yet profound insights into the challenges and opportunities surrounding CAR-T treatments, from access and sustainability to innovation and clinical advancements.With a focus on real-world applications, the discussion highlights key issues such as treatment accessibility, cost-effectiveness, long-term outcomes, and the future of CAR-T in autoimmune diseases.

In the inaugural episode of our hematology podcast, Professor Robin Foà(Emeritus Professor of Hematology, Sapienza University of Rome) and Dr. Filippo Milano (Associate Professor, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle) explore the groundbreaking advances in gene therapy and the pressing ethical dilemmas surrounding patient access. From the high costs and insurance hurdles in the U.S. to the impact on underserved populations, this discussion sheds light into the complex landscape of innovative treatments and equitable care. Join us for a thought-provoking conversation that bridges scientific innovation and real-world challenges in hematology.

Join Prof. Robin Foà (Sapienza University of Rome) and Dr. Filippo Milano (Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle) as they explore the cutting-edge world of hematology. Hematology Pills offers concise yet profound insights into innovative treatments like gene and immunotherapy, transforming patient care and reshaping the future of hematology. Aimed at specialists and researchers, this podcast is your gateway to some of the latest advancements and expert perspectives in the field.