Addressing Hemorrhagic Cystitis in HCT: Insights from Dr. Simone Cesaro on BK Virus Surveillance and Clinical Practice Gaps

Addressing Hemorrhagic Cystitis in HCT: Insights from Dr. Simone Cesaro on BK Virus Surveillance and Clinical Practice Gaps

In this exclusive interview with Infectious Diseases Frontier, Professor Simone Cesaro, a leading expert in pediatric hematology and stem cell transplantation, shares his perspectives on the management of BK polyomavirus-associated hemorrhagic cystitis (HC) following hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT). Drawing from the findings of a recent EBMT survey, he discusses the clinical implications of passive surveillance strategies, platelet transfusion thresholds, and the urgent need for consensus guidelines to support transplant centers across Europe. His insights underscore the importance of early intervention and standardization in addressing this often-overlooked complication.
EBMT 2025: Opening Ceremony Celebrates Legacy, Innovation, and a Unified Vision for the Future of Transplantation

EBMT 2025: Opening Ceremony Celebrates Legacy, Innovation, and a Unified Vision for the Future of Transplantation

Florence, Italy — March 30, 2025 – The 51st Annual Meeting of the European Society for Blood and Marrow Transplantation (EBMT) commenced in Florence with a compelling and multifaceted opening ceremony that captured the essence of what the EBMT represents. Far beyond a traditional welcome, the evening unfolded as a rich tapestry of scientific achievement, heartfelt remembrance, and forward-looking vision.
Redefining Infection Prevention: Dr. Doris Ponce on the Clinical Promise of SER-155 and the Future of Microbiome Therapeutics

Redefining Infection Prevention: Dr. Doris Ponce on the Clinical Promise of SER-155 and the Future of Microbiome Therapeutics

Live biotherapeutic products are rapidly changing the landscape of infection prevention, particularly in immunocompromised patients. Among these, SER-155, a multi-strain oral therapy, has demonstrated compelling clinical results. In a recent trial, the incidence of bloodstream infections (BSIs) dropped sharply in the SER-155 group compared to placebo (10% vs. 42.9%). This finding signals a potential breakthrough in both infection control and microbiome modulation. In this interview, Dr. Doris Ponce discusses the mechanisms behind SER-155, its implications for antimicrobial resistance, and its future applications beyond transplant medicine. Her responses provide an in-depth look at how microbiome science is poised to transform not only prevention but also personalized therapeutic strategies in clinical care.