Dr. Lucas, a pediatric hematologist-oncologist, is making remarkable strides in pediatric cancer research. Hailing from the Netherlands, he studied Biomedical Sciences and Medicine at the University of Leiden before embarking on a year of pediatric residency in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Driven by his passion, he pursued further training in New York City, completing a pediatric residency in the Bronx followed by a pediatric hematology/oncology fellowship at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSKCC).
Now an assistant attending at MSK Kids, Dr. Lucas focuses on identifying predictors of outcomes after allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplant. Collaborating with esteemed colleagues Dr. Jaap Jan Boelens and Dr. Kinga Hosszu, he has explored predictors of outcomes for hematologic malignancies and non-malignant indications like Fanconi anemia. His groundbreaking work revealed that early B cell immune reconstitution, defined as a B cell count above 25 within 100 days after transplant, correlates with improved outcomes, including better overall survival, reduced non-relapse mortality, and decreased acute and chronic GvHD. This research was published in Cytotherapy.
Continuing his pursuit of knowledge, Dr. Lucas has submitted studies on outcomes after transplant for Fanconi anemia, as well as for post-transplant relapse in patients who underwent cord blood transplant to prominent journals like Blood Advances and Frontiers in Oncology, respectively.
Dr. Lucas's interest lies in further investigating outcome predictors and identifying biomarkers to improve allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplant efficacy and safety. By understanding which predictors matter most, he believes adjustments to preparative regimens, graft selection, and post-transplant supportive care can be made, ultimately enhancing survival and quality of life for transplant patients.
Driven by an unwavering commitment to patient care, Dr. Lucas's research and discoveries are reshaping the field of pediatric oncology. Through his relentless dedication, he strives to make a lasting impact on the lives of patients and their families, providing hope and paving the way for improved treatments and outcomes.
