Experiences in the use of multiple doses of convalescent plasma in critically ill patients with COVID-19: An early phase 1 descriptive study.

Background: At the beginning of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic, transfusion of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) convalescent plasma (CCP) emerged as a potential therapeutic strategy to help patients severely afflicted by COVID-19. The efficacy of CCP has been controversial as it depends on many variables pertaining to the plasma donor and the patient with COVID-19, for example, time of convalescence or symptoms onset. This feasibility and descriptive study aimed to assess the safety of multiple doses of CCP in mechanically ventilated, intubated patients with respiratory failure due to COVID-19.

Consensus Statement: Importance of Timely Access to Multiple Myeloma Diagnosis and Treatment in Central America and the Caribbean.

Background: In Central America and the Caribbean, multiple myeloma (MM) patients face significant barriers to diagnosis and treatment. The aim of this study is to describe the current situation of MM in the region, discuss the current barriers to timely diagnosis and proper treatment, and develop consensus recommendations to address these issues.

Methods: Nine experts from five countries took part in a virtual consensus meeting on MM in Central America and the Caribbean.