A comprehensive targeted next-generation sequencing panel for genetic diagnosis of patients with suspected inherited thrombocytopenia.

Background: Inherited thrombocytopenias (ITs) are a heterogeneous group of disorders characterized by low platelet counts and often disproportionate bleeding with over 30 genes currently implicated. Previously the UK-GAPP study using whole exome sequencing (WES) identified a pathogenic variant in 19 of 47 (40%) patients of which 71% had variants in genes known to cause IT.

Aims: To employ a targeted next-generation sequencing platform to improve efficiency of diagnostic testing and reduce overall costs.

Personal practice: how we manage the risk of bleeding and thrombosis in children and young adults with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia.

Bleeding and thrombosis are not infrequent problems in children receiving treatment for acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL). The exact frequency varies with age, co-morbidity and treatment schedule, but the risk is highest in the first few weeks of treatment when disease and treatment-related haemostatic abnormalities prevail. Recommendations for prevention and management are lacking due to a weak evidence base, resulting in considerable variation in practice.