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The Role of Home Infusion Therapy in Haemophilia

A Disease Management Perspective

  • Review Article
  • Published:
Disease Management and Health Outcomes

Abstract

Home infusion therapy, i.e. home infusion of deficient or missing clotting factors, is one of the mainstays of haemophilia care in developed countries. The aims of home therapy are: (i) to prevent profuse bleedings by giving treatment immediately in the event of incipient bleeding; (ii) to save time and money in terms of transport to and from hospital; (iii) to reduce absence from school or work; and (iv) to render patients independent so that they can lead ‘normal’ lives.

Home therapy should be started immediately when there is an indication for replacement therapy. Initially, parents administer the infusions to the patient with assistance; eventually, the patient can treat themselves. Virtually all patients are eligible for home therapy within the frame of a comprehensive care programme. Studies have shown a dramatic beneficial outcome in both social functioning and joint disease after introduction of this treatment modality.

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Correspondence to Erik Berntorp MD, PhD.

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Berntorp, E., Lethagen, S. The Role of Home Infusion Therapy in Haemophilia. Dis-Manage-Health-Outcomes 7, 77–81 (2000). https://doi.org/10.2165/00115677-200007020-00003

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.2165/00115677-200007020-00003

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