This symposium covered a wide range of topics of interest to both general physicians and specialists in haematology. Problems commonly encountered by acute physicians were explored, including the management of over-anticoagulation, thrombocytopenia associated with thrombosis and dealing with current and emerging risks of blood transfusion. Updates on the management of chronic lymphocytic leukaemia, multiple myeloma and Hodgkin’s lymphoma were presented. The discovery of the JAK2V617F mutation and the use of tyrosine kinase inhibitors in chronic myeloid leukaemia have changed the way we diagnose and treat myeloproliferative disorders. New approaches to monitoring and treating transfusional iron overload were discussed. In the field of stem cell transplantation, the vogue for reduced intensity allogeneic transplants has allowed older patients to benefit from this treatment approach.
