Lynn Malec, MD, discusses hemophilia A and the role of pediatricians
Lynn Malec, MD, joins Contemporary Pediatrics once again for a discussion of the hemophilia A space and how pediatric health care providers fit into care.
Lynn Malec, MD, medical director, Comprehensive Center for Bleeding Disorder; associate investigator, The Versiti Blood Research Institute; and associate professor of Medicine and Pediatrics, The Medical College of Wisconsin, discussed the evolving landscape of hemophilia treatment and the critical role pediatricians play in the care of children with bleeding disorders. While hemophilia and other severe bleeding disorders are typically managed by specialists in hemophilia treatment centers (HTCs), pediatricians continue to have a vital role in ensuring comprehensive care for these patients.
"All of our patients with, really, a severe bleeding disorder, the treatment patterns in the United States are that, ideally, patients are cared for at a specialty center known as a hemophilia treatment center, or HTC."
These centers are staffed by sub-specialists within hematology and oncology who focus specifically on noncancerous hematology, including bleeding disorders. However, Malec emphasized that the involvement of primary care doctors, particularly pediatricians, is crucial to the overall health and well-being of these patients.
"The exciting piece about this medicine (ALTUVIIIO; Sanofi) and really where we are with our hemophilia treatment in general is thankfully, rather than kids suffering from lots of bleeding episodes or having times where they are in and out of the hospital frequently, or even face death like they would have more frequently just a couple of decades ago, with therapies such as this, which really provide excellent bleed protection, our goal as hematologists is that they can have healthy, productive lives," Malec said.
The relationship between hematologists and pediatricians is particularly important when it comes to routine pediatric care.
"I partner closely with primary care doctors when we're thinking about things like their well child checks... to really make sure that they get all of the regular well child care that another child would have."
The advent of new therapies has also reshaped the standards of care for children with hemophilia. Malec pointed out that as these therapies improve, the expectations for what is considered optimal care have evolved. The goal now is not only to prevent bleeding but also to allow children to participate in activities that might have been discouraged in the past, such as organized sports.
"Maybe the standard that we thought was acceptable 10 years ago is not actually optimal to prevent all bleeding," Malec said.
In conclusion, Malec underscored that while hemophilia treatment has become increasingly specialized, the role of the pediatrician remains integral. The collaborative relationship between HTCs and pediatricians ensures that children with bleeding disorders receive comprehensive care, optimizing their health outcomes and enabling them to lead fulfilling lives.
