In order to support high-quality science, the European Hematology Association collaborates with 16 Scientific Working Groups (SWGs) and concentrates on fostering activities directed towards basic and translational research. In simultaneous sessions on Thursday, June 13, during the European Hematology Congress in Stockholm, two of the SWGs will discuss progress in lymphoma and
myeloma.
European Mantle Cell Lymphoma Network
The European Mantle Cell Lymphoma Network will extensively discuss developments in new biological prognostic factors, which may prevent over- and undertreatment of patients. Detection of minimal residual disease with advanced methods has established individualized risk-dependent treatment strategies. Also presented will be the latest results of treatment of younger patients—both upfront and in the relapse setting—with molecular approaches/smart molecules, which should lead to an improvement in survival. Special attention will be paid to new treatment options for the elderly with the aim of achieving a better prognosis.
SWG Myeloma
The SWG Myeloma will focus on “Models for Drug Resistance,” which represent one of the major problems in maintaining today’s effective treatment. New insights into mechanisms of resistance, including identification and prediction of this unwanted phenomenon, will be discussed. In particular, researchers will report on emerging knowledge of the genetic signature of defined resistant subgroups of patients. A new preclinical disease model mimicking the clinical condition and providing opportunity to accelerate the development of new drugs will be presented as well as the mechanisms through which evolution from “smoldering” disease to aggressive disease takes place. ■
