Hematologic Malignancies

The Dept. of Hematology at Helse Stavanger HF is a hub for research on blood‑related cancers, focusing on improving survival and quality of life for patients with Acute Myeloid Leukemia, Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia, Chronic Myeloid Leukemia, and Multiple Myeloma. Studies aim to test innovative immunotherapies, refine stem‑cell transplant strategies, and evaluate biomarkers that guide treatment intensity.

  • Novel bispecific T‑cell redirectors for early‑line myeloma therapy
  • Minimal residual disease (MRD)‑driven treatment adaptation in leukemia
  • Targeted IDH1/IDH2 inhibitors for AML with specific mutations
  • Combination of proteasome inhibitors with monoclonal antibodies in multiple myeloma
  • Optimizing conditioning regimens for allogeneic transplantation

With 73 investigators overseeing 89 active trials, the site advances precision oncology across the full spectrum of hematologic diseases.

Solid Tumor Research

A broad portfolio of studies at Helse Stavanger HF targets major solid cancers, including breast cancer subtypes, non‑small cell lung cancer, melanoma, and prostate cancer. The goal is to evaluate new targeted agents, immunotherapies, and neoadjuvant strategies that can increase cure rates and reduce long‑term toxicity.

  • HER2‑targeted antibody‑drug conjugates in early‑stage breast cancer
  • Immune checkpoint blockade combined with radiotherapy for extensive‑stage small‑cell lung cancer
  • Adjuvant nivolumab + relatlimab versus nivolumab alone after complete melanoma resection
  • Biomarker‑driven neoadjuvant therapy for hormone‑receptor‑positive, HER2‑negative breast cancer
  • Combination of HER2‑directed agents with chemotherapy in metastatic urothelial carcinoma

These trials integrate molecular profiling to match patients with the most promising therapeutic options.

Neurological Disorders

Research at the Stavanger site includes a focus on neurodegenerative and cerebrovascular diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease, Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, multiple sclerosis, and acute ischemic stroke. Investigations seek to slow disease progression, improve cognitive function, and enhance recovery after acute events.

  • Disease‑modifying agents for early Alzheimer’s disease evaluated by clinical dementia rating
  • Neuroprotective effects of ambroxol in patients with dementia with Lewy bodies
  • Comparative efficacy of ocrelizumab versus rituximab in relapsing‑remitting multiple sclerosis
  • Tenecteplase administration within 4.5 hours for central retinal artery occlusion as a stroke model
  • Integration of tumor‑treating fields with chemotherapy for MGMT‑methylated glioblastoma

The multidisciplinary approach combines neurology, imaging, and pharmacology to address unmet needs in brain health.

Metabolic & Renal Research

The department conducts trials aimed at metabolic disorders and kidney disease, targeting conditions such as type 2 diabetes, antipsychotic‑induced metabolic syndrome, and chronic kidney disease with high proteinuria. Studies evaluate novel drug combinations and lifestyle interventions to preserve renal function and improve glucose control.

  • Fixed‑dose combination of zibotentan and dapagliflozin versus dapagliflozin alone for slowing kidney function decline
  • Semaglutide add‑on therapy for metabolic control in patients using antipsychotics
  • Assessment of renal outcomes in patients with primary IgA nephropathy receiving targeted therapies
  • Investigating the impact of intensive lifestyle counseling on glycemic variability in type 2 diabetes
  • Evaluation of novel biomarkers for early detection of diabetic peripheral neuropathy

Findings aim to inform clinical practice for managing complex metabolic and renal comorbidities.

Autoimmune & Inflammatory Diseases

A suite of investigations at Helse Stavanger HF addresses chronic immune‑mediated conditions, including rheumatoid arthritis, juvenile idiopathic arthritis, primary Sjögren’s syndrome, and hidradenitis suppurativa. The objective is to refine therapeutic monitoring, reduce disease flares, and explore new biologic agents.

  • Proactive therapeutic drug monitoring to maintain disease control in rheumatoid arthritis patients on TNF inhibitors
  • Intra‑articular glucocorticoid injections combined with TNF‑blockade in juvenile idiopathic arthritis
  • Lutikizumab efficacy for moderate to severe hidradenitis suppurativa
  • Biomarker‑driven stratification in primary Sjögren’s syndrome trials
  • Immune thrombocytopenia response to novel Fc‑engineered antibodies

These projects seek to personalize immunomodulatory therapy and improve long‑term outcomes for patients with autoimmune disorders.

Infectious & Respiratory Research

The site also supports studies on infectious diseases and respiratory health, covering bacterial infections, viral illnesses such as varicella, and acute lower respiratory tract infections. Research focuses on optimizing treatment regimens and evaluating preventive strategies.

  • Comparative effectiveness of antibiotics versus supportive care in acute lower respiratory tract infection
  • Safety and efficacy of hyperbaric oxygen therapy for acute sudden sensorineural hearing loss linked to viral infection
  • Evaluation of rapid antiviral therapy for varicella in immunocompromised adults
  • Impact of adjunctive therapies on outcomes of bacterial pneumonia in elderly patients
  • Assessment of diagnostic techniques for early detection of mycoses in hospitalized cohorts

These investigations aim to enhance clinical management of common and severe infections across the population.