ASH 2024: AI and innovative therapies are shaping the future of haematology

The 66th Annual Meeting of the American Society of Hematology this December is a crucial forum on the latest advances in haematology.

An artificial intelligence revolution

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into haematological practice marks a paradigm shift. Particularly promising is the work of Marchi et al., who are opening up new avenues in AML diagnostics using AI-based long read sequencing. The MAGAERA project by Sauta et al. impressively demonstrates how deep learning can revolutionise personalised prognosis assessment in MDS.

The practical orientation of the AI projects presented is remarkable: from predicting transplant mortality to AI-supported analysis of histological images in B-cell lymphomas, specific applications are presented that can directly enrich everyday clinical practice.

Breakthroughs in the treatment of classic diseases

Another focus is on innovative treatment approaches for established haematological diseases. The session, chaired by Dr Rakhi P. Naik, promises exciting insights into three pioneering therapeutic concepts: the new class of HIF prolyl hydroxylase inhibitors could fundamentally change the treatment of renal anemia. Luspatercept is showing promising results in β-thalassemia, while givosiran opens up new perspectives for patients with acute intermittent porphyria.

CAR-T cell therapy: looking to the future

As experience with CAR-T cell therapy grows, the focus is shifting to long-term effects and complications management. The session led by Dr Michael R. Bishop will present comprehensive data on delayed cytopenia, delayed neurotoxic manifestations, and the risk of secondary malignancies. Particular attention will be paid to the integration of patient-reported outcomes into follow-up care – an important step in the early detection of complications.

New standards in paediatric thrombosis therapy

The eagerly awaited joint guidelines of ASH and ISTH for VTE therapy in children will be presented for the first time. Under the direction of Prof. Paul Monagle, the management of asymptomatic VTE and the use of DOACs in children will be discussed in particular – topics of high practical relevance.