- 12
- Episodes
- 2023
- First episode
About Graft vs. Host Discussion
The landscape of graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) management is continuously evolving. Graft vs. Host Discussion is a series of in-depth conversations with experts on the front lines of all facets of chronic GVHD. We are delving into the most pressing topics, ranging from key clinical data to practical clinical pearls and long-term complications of chronic GVHD. We are starting the conversation with experts at the forefront of this disease's research and management; they provide a comprehensive perspective on patient management and care to fellow healthcare professionals equally committed to improving and personalizing treatment for patients with GVHD. This podcast is intended for healthcare professionals only. Speaker disclosures are available in each episode’s notes. The views and opinions expressed in this program are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of any entities they represent. Some information contained herein may cite the use of an unapproved product in a dosage, for an indication, or in a manner other than recommended. Before prescribing any product, always refer to the latest Product Monograph. Financial support for the Graft vs. Host Discussion program was provided by Sanofi Canada. MAT-CA-2301273 App Sept 2023
- Publisher
- Graft vs. Host Discussion
- Category
- health & fitness · science
- Language
- en
- Explicit
- No
- First episode
- 29 Aug 2023
- Latest episode
- 9 Feb 2026
Latest episodes
12 episodes in the feed.
9 Feb 2026
The cGVHD Q&A: Expert Insights in Chronic GVHD Management
This special FAQ episode brings together Dr. Dennis Kim, Hematologist/Oncologist, and Dr. Gizelle Popradi, Hematologist, for an in-depth conversation on what clinicians need to know about cGVHD management. Our experts offer an insightful overview of the evolving frontline algorithm in cGVHD management, including how to select patients for systemic steroids and when to reassess for non-response. They highlight how emerging therapeutic agents are shaping sequential treatment decisions and provide practical guidance on multidisciplinary care and proactive monitoring for multi-organ involvement and early pulmonary changes. The experts also emphasize the importance of incorporating patient-reported outcomes into clinical practice. Tune in to explore clinical pearls on prevention, guideline integration, and evidence-based algorithms, delivering actionable insights to support more patient-centred care. Don’t miss the conversation! The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of any entities they represent. Declaration of conflict of interest: Dr. Gizelle Popradi: · Direct financial relationship, including receipt of honoraria: AbbVie, Amgen, BMS, Daiichi Sankyo, Gilead, Incyte, Jazz, Kyowa Kirin, Mallinckrodt/Therakos, Medexus, Novartis, Paladin, Pfizer, Sanofi, Sean Gen, Servier, Sobi, Takeda. Dr. Dennis Kim: · Direct financial relationship, including receipt of honoraria: Novartis, Sanofi, Jazz, Paladin. Membership on advisory boards or speaker bureaus: Novartis, Sanofi, Jazz, Paladin. Funded grants, research, or clinical trials: Novartis, Sanofi, Jazz, Paladin. MAT-CA-2501632
6 Oct 2025
Bridging pediatric and adult cGVHD care
When it comes to managing chronic graft-versus-host disease (cGVHD), what are the unique considerations for pediatric patients, setting them apart from adult care? Our host, Dr. Kirk Schultz, explores this and other topics with Dr. Henrique Bittencourt, a pediatric hematologist/oncologist and clinical professor at the CHU Sainte-Justine, Université de Montréal. Join our experts as they navigate the distinct landscape of chronic GVHD in children. They explore why pediatric presentations often require unique diagnostic approaches and specialized management strategies, emphasizing the critical role of multidisciplinary collaboration and addressing the challenges of transitioning patients to adult care. Don’t miss the conversation! The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of any entities they represent. Declaration of conflict of interest: Dr. Kirk Schultz: · Membership on advisory board or speakers’ bureaus: Incyte, Sanofi. Patents on a drug, product, or device: cGvHD diagnostic and risk assignment algorithms. Dr. Henrique Bittencourt: · Direct financial relationship, including receipt of honoraria: Jazz. Membership on advisory board or speakers' bureaus: Amgen, Incyte, Jazz, Sanofi. Funded grants, research, or clinical trials: Amgen, AbbVie, Incyte, Novartis, Roche, Sanofi, Syndax. MAT-CA-2501035
10 Sept 2025
Collaborative care for ocular GVHD
How can we best alleviate the significant impact of ocular chronic graft-versus-host disease (cGVHD) on our patients' daily lives and overall well-being? Our host, Dr. Kareem Jamani, explores this and other topics with Dr. Jamie Bhamra, an ophthalmologist specialized in corneal and ocular surface diseases, and Assistant Professor at the University of Calgary. This episode features our experts delving into the frequent presentations of ocular GVHD, the burden this manifestation places on transplant patients, and the importance of collaborative care among multidisciplinary specialists to optimize patient outcomes. They also discuss a multipronged management approach, from initial treatments to advanced interventions for this common, yet sometimes challenging, complication. Declaration of conflict of interest: Dr. Kareem Jamani: Membership on advisory board or speakers’ bureaus: Jazz, Novartis, Paladin, Sanofi, Servier, Takeda, Vertex. Funded grants, research, or clinical trials: Jazz. Dr. Jamie Bhamra: None. Don’t miss the conversation! The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of any entities they represent. Declaration of conflict of interest: MAT-CA-2500984
10 Sept 2025
Navigating infectious complications in cGVHD
Chronic graft-versus-host disease (cGVHD) presents a spectrum of often hidden infectious challenges. When should a hematologist managing these complex patients call in an infectious disease specialist? Our host, Dr. Gizelle Popradi, takes a deep dive into this topic with infectious disease expert Dr. Matthew Cheng, clinical researcher and assistant professor at the McGill University Health Centre. In this episode, our experts explore critical considerations for managing infectious complications in patients with cGVHD, from identifying common and atypical infections to diagnostic pathways, and innovative prophylactic and therapeutic strategies. Discover practical insights that will enhance your approach to optimal care in this complex and vulnerable patient population. Don’t miss the conversation! The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of any entities they represent. Declaration of conflict of interest: Dr. Gizelle Popradi: Direct financial relationship, including receipt of honoraria: AbbVie, Amgen, BMS, Daiichi Sankyo, Gilead, Incyte, Jazz, Kyowa Kirin, Mallinckrodt/Therakos, Medexus, Novartis, Paladin, Pfizer, Sanofi, Sean Gen, Servier, Sobi, Takeda. Dr. Matthew Cheng: Direct financial relationship, including receipt of honoraria: AstraZeneca, GEn1E Lifesciences, Merck, Nomic Bio, Pfizer, Takeda. Membership on advisory board or speakers' bureaus: GEn1E Lifesciences, Nomic Bio. Funded grants, research, or clinical trials: Canadian Institutes of Health Research, Fonds de Recherche du Québec – Santé, Amplyx Pharmaceuticals, Cidara Therapeutics, SCYNEXIS Inc. Patents on a drug, product, or device: Methods for detecting tissue damage, graft-versus-host disease, and infections using cell-free DNA profiling; methods for assessing the severity and progression of SARS-CoV-2 infections using cell-free DNA. All other investments or relationships: co-founder of Kanvas Biosciences. MAT-CA-2500975
12 Aug 2024
Unpacking the latest Canadian cGVHD guidelines
There are several international guidelines for management of chronic graft-versus-host disease (cGVHD), but what about Canadian-specific guidance on how best to manage this complex disorder? Our podcast moderators, Dr. Gizelle Popradi, hematologist and Stem Cell Transplant Program Director at the McGill University Health Centre, and Dr. Dennis Kim, clinician at the Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, provide exclusive perspectives as authors of the latest consensus-based Canadian cGVHD guidelines. Our experts discuss the rationale and collaborative development process behind the recently published Cell Therapy Transplant Canada (CTTC) guidelines for managing cGVHD. They explore the unique management challenges within the Canadian healthcare landscape, as well as the unmet needs these guidelines aim to address in cGVHD care across the country. Finally, our authors give their insights into the future of cGVHD treatment and how exciting developments in the field can lead to a brighter future for patients. Don’t miss the conversation! The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of any entities they represent. Declaration of conflict of interest: Dr. Gizelle Popradi: Direct financial relationship including receipt of honoraria: Sanofi, Servier, Mallinckrodt, AbbVie, Jazz, Medexus, Pfizer, Seattle Genetics, Takeda, Amgen, Merck, Gilead, Novartis, Kyowa Kirin, Paladin, Sobi. Funded grants, research, or clinical trials: Mallinckrodt, Syndax, AbbVie, Equillium, Amgen, Incyte. Dr. Dennis Kim: Direct financial relationship including receipt of honoraria: Novartis, Sanofi, Pfizer, Jazz, Paladin. Membership on advisory board: Novartis, Sanofi, Jazz, Paladin. Funded grants, research, or clinical trials: Novartis, Sanofi, Jazz, Paladin. MAT-CA-2401072
12 Aug 2024
Pulmonary perspectives of GVHD
Graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) that occurs in the lungs remains a therapeutic challenge. When and how should respirology be involved in post-transplant care? Our host, Dr. Dennis Kim, explores this topic in detail with Dr. Ambrose Lau, a respirologist with the University Health Network and assistant professor at the University of Toronto. Our experts discuss the importance of working closely with hematologists to establish baseline pulmonary function, in order to facilitate early detection of changes post-transplant. Other topics include eliminating the possibility of infection or other obstructive disorders, the treatment approach for patients with confirmed lung GVHD, ideal monitoring schedules for complex cases, and strategies for communicating with patients about their condition. Don’t miss the conversation! The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of any entities they represent. Declaration of conflict of interest: Dr. Dennis Kim: Direct financial relationship including receipt of honoraria: Novartis, Sanofi, Pfizer, Jazz, Paladin. Membership on advisory board: Novartis, Sanofi, Jazz, Paladin. Funded grants, research, or clinical trials: Novartis, Sanofi, Jazz, Paladin. Dr. Ambrose Lau: None MAT-CA-2400857
12 Aug 2024
GVHD and the role of the dermatologist
As the largest organ in the body, the skin is commonly impacted by graft-versus-host disease (GVHD). What are the treatment approaches to manage GVHD of the skin? Our host, Dr. Gizelle Popradi, is joined by Dr. Ivan Litvinov, a dermatologist with the McGill University Health Centre in Montreal, to discuss this topic and more. In this episode, Dr. Litvinov introduces the role of dermatologists and their importance on the stem cell transplant team in the initial assessment and follow-up of patients with GVHD, particularly those taking photosensitizing medications. The varying manifestations and severity of skin GVHD are also discussed, including treatment approaches best suited for each manifestation. Lastly, Dr. Litvinov provides a list of best practices and advice for patients. Don’t miss the conversation! The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of any entities they represent. Declaration of conflict of interest: Dr. Gizelle Popradi: Direct financial relationship including receipt of honoraria: Sanofi, Servier, Mallinckrodt, AbbVie, Jazz, Medexus, Pfizer, Seattle Genetics, Takeda, Amgen, Merck, Gilead, Novartis, Kyowa Kirin, Paladin, Sobi. Funded grants, research, or clinical trials: Mallinckrodt, Syndax, AbbVie, Equillium, Amgen, Incyte. Dr. Ivan Litvinov: None MAT-CA-2400942
12 Aug 2024
Gynecological manifestations of GVHD
Graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) presenting in the vulva and vagina can often be overlooked. What can be done to detect signs and symptoms, and how is GVHD differentiated from other possible post-transplant complications? Our host, Dr. Dennis Kim, covers these topics and more with Dr. Michelle Jacobson, a gynecologist and menopause specialist with the Society of Obstetricians and Gynecologists of Canada. Dr. Jacobson also sits on the board of the Canadian Menopause Society and the Menopause Foundation of Canada. In this episode, the incidence of GVHD in the vulva and vagina is discussed, followed by screening tips and recommendations for specialist referral. Dr. Jacobson also describes the gynecological sequelae associated with stem cell transplant, the similarities between GVHD and other vulvar and vaginal conditions, and provides management options, as well as advice, for talking to patients about their genital health and sexual function. Don’t miss the conversation! The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of any entities they represent. Declaration of conflict of interest: Dr. Dennis Kim: Direct financial relationship including receipt of honoraria: Novartis, Sanofi, Pfizer, Jazz, Paladin. Membership on advisory board: Novartis, Sanofi, Jazz, Paladin. Funded grants, research, or clinical trials: Novartis, Sanofi, Jazz, Paladin. Dr. Michelle Jacobson: Direct financial relationship including receipt of honoraria: AbbVie, Astellas, Bayer, BioSyent, Duchesnay, Hologic, Knight, Lupin, Organon, Pfizer, Searchlight. Membership on advisory board: AbbVie, Astellas, Bayer, BioSyent, Duchesnay, Eisai, Knight, Lupin, Pfizer. Funded grants, research, or clinical trials: Health Canada, Canadian Institutes of Health Research MAT-CA-2400859
25 Sept 2023
Managing Major Long-Term Complications Post-Allogeneic HCT
Both malignant and non-malignant blood and bone marrow diseases can be treated with allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT), but the procedure is not without its risks of complications, including the potential for acute or chronic graft-versus-host disease (GVHD). What strategies can be used to recognize symptoms and best manage patients after allogeneic HCT? Our host, Dr. Dennis Kim, takes a deep look into this topic with Dr. Mahmoud Elsawy, Hematologist with the Nova Scotia Health Authority and Clinical Assistant Professor at Dalhousie University. This episode discusses the early- and late-term complications associated with allogeneic HCT and the importance of intervening early and effectively, especially with harder-to-treat phenotypes of GVHD. Our experts also discuss strategies for mitigating the risks of secondary solid tumours and recurrence of primary hematological disease in patients who have undergone allogeneic HCT. Don’t miss the conversation! The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of any entities they represent. Declaration of conflict of interest: Dr. Dennis Kim: Direct financial relationship including receipt of honoraria: Novartis, Sanofi, Pfizer, Jazz, Paladin. Membership on advisory boards or speakers’ bureaus: Novartis, Sanofi, Jazz, Paladin. Funded grants, research or clinical trials: Novartis, Sanofi, Pfizer, Paladin. Dr. Mahmoud Elsawy: Direct financial relationship including receipt of honoraria: AbbVie, Sanofi, Kite, Novartis, BMS, Janssen. Membership on advisory boards or speakers’ bureaus: AbbVie, Sanofi, Kite, Novartis, BMS, Janssen. MAT-CA-2301328 App Sept 2023
29 Aug 2023
Keys to Optimizing Multidisciplinary cGVHD Care
Chronic graft-versus-host disease is a heterogeneous disease characterized by inflammatory and/or fibrotic manifestations, where a multidisciplinary team approach is necessary for optimal patient care—but what are the keys to successful collaborative management of this condition? Our host, Dr. Dennis Kim, takes a deep look into this topic with Dr. Kristjan Paulson, Hematologist within the Leukemia and Blood and Marrow Transplant Disease Site Groups at CancerCare Manitoba. He is also the Past-President of Cell Therapy Transplant Canada (CTTC) and leads the Canadian Blood and Marrow Transplant Group Registry as Primary Investigator and Scientific Director. This episode discusses the importance of collaborative care and the roles of various multidisciplinary team members in addressing the clinical complexities of chronic graft-versus-host disease (cGVHD). Our experts also touch how organizations such as the CTTC can be a helpful resource for providers managing GVHD, as well as strategies to create local networks of sub-specialists, where providers can learn from each other in the hopes of providing best care for improved patient outcomes. Don’t miss the conversation! The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of any entities they represent. Declaration of conflict of interest: Dr. Dennis Kim: Direct financial relationship including receipt of honoraria: Novartis, Sanofi, Pfizer, Jazz, Paladin. Membership on advisory boards or speakers’ bureaus: Novartis, Sanofi, Jazz, Paladin. Funded grants, research or clinical trials: Novartis, Sanofi, Pfizer, Paladin. Dr. Kristjan Paulson: Membership on advisory boards or speakers’ bureaus: Sanofi, Amgen, Pfizer, Novartis, Astellas, Jazz, AbbVie. Funded grants, research or clinical trials: Sanofi, Amgen, Pfizer, Novartis, Astellas, Jazz, AbbVie. MAT-CA-2301194 App Aug 2023
29 Aug 2023
Best Clinical Practices in the Management of Hard-to-Treat Forms of cGVHD
Certain manifestations of chronic graft-versus-host disease can be difficult to manage, with poor responses to standard immunosuppressive therapies that can leave patients with persistent dysfunction of affected organs. How are these hard-to-treat forms of the disease best managed to improve patient outcomes? Our host, Dr. Dennis Kim, takes a deep look into this topic with Dr. Lynn Savoie, Hematologist at the Tom Baker Cancer Centre. She is also a Clinical Associate Professor in the Department of Medicine and Oncology at the University of Calgary, as well as the Department of Malignant Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation, Alberta Health Services, Calgary Zone. This episode discusses the care gaps and best clinical practices when managing patients having chronic graft-versus-host disease (cGVHD) involvement in difficult-to-treat organs such as the lungs and skin. Our experts take a deeper dive into how these forms of cGVHD should be assessed and monitored over time, along with practice pearls on how to manage such cases. Don’t miss the conversation! The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of any entities they represent. Declaration of conflict of interest: Dr. Dennis Kim: Direct financial relationship including receipt of honoraria: Novartis, Sanofi, Pfizer, Jazz, Paladin. Membership on advisory boards or speakers’ bureaus: Novartis, Sanofi, Jazz, Paladin. Funded grants, research or clinical trials: Novartis, Sanofi, Pfizer, Paladin. Dr. Lynn Savoie: Direct financial relationship including receipt of honoraria: AbbVie, Amgen, Astellas, BMS/Celgene, Jazz, Novartis, Pfizer, Sanofi. Membership on advisory boards or speakers’ bureaus: AbbVie, Amgen, Astellas, BMS/Celgene, Jazz, Novartis, Pfizer, Sanofi. MAT-CA-2301111 App Aug 2023
29 Aug 2023
Evidence for Newer Targeted Therapies in cGVHD
Steroids are the mainstay therapy in chronic graft-versus-host disease, but there remains a need for more targeted treatments, of which there have been recent advances made with the availability of therapies that may translate into improved patient outcomes. What are these newer immunomodulatory agents and what is the clinical evidence behind their use? Our host, Dr. Dennis Kim, takes a deep look into this topic with Dr. Gizelle Popradi, Director of the McGill University Health Centre Stem Cell Transplant Program and Clinical Teaching Unit Director of the Hematology-Transplant Unit, in the Department of Internal Medicine and Division of Hematology, as well as an Assistant Professor at McGill University. This episode discusses the unmet treatment needs for chronic graft-versus-host disease (cGVHD) and highlights key clinical evidence for recently approved therapies that have changed the treatment landscape and clinical management of cGVHD, with a particular focus on ruxolitinib and belumosudil. Our experts also consider possible future directions and outlooks for evolving patient care in cGVHD. Don’t miss the conversation! The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of any entities they represent. Declaration of conflict of interest: Dr. Dennis Kim: Direct financial relationship including receipt of honoraria: Novartis, Sanofi, Pfizer, Jazz, Paladin. Membership on advisory boards or speakers’ bureaus: Novartis, Sanofi, Jazz, Paladin. Funded grants, research or clinical trials: Novartis, Sanofi, Pfizer, Paladin. Dr. Gizelle Popradi: Direct financial relationship including receipt of honoraria: Novartis, Merck, Kite, Gilead, Jazz, Servier, Avir, Kyowa Kirin, Amgen, CCH PTCL, Sanofi, Pfizer, Taiho, PeerVoice, Takeda, BMS, Seattle Genetics, AbbVie, Medexus. Membership on advisory boards or speakers’ bureaus: Kite, Gilead, Jazz, Servier, Merck, Avir, Amgen, Sanofi, Pfizer, Taiho, Novartis, PeerVoice, BMS, Takeda, AbbVie, Seattle Genetics, Medexus. Funded grants, research or clinical trials: Syndax, Equilium, AbbVie. MAT-CA-2301110 App Aug 2023
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