Amy DeZern, MD, MHS
Hematologic Malignancy
- Johns Hopkins School of Medicine Faculty
About Amy DeZern
Professional Titles
- Vice Chair for Hematologic Malignancies
- Director, Bone Marrow Failure and MDS Program
Primary Academic Title
Professor of Oncology
Background
Dr. DeZern is a Professor of Oncology and Medicine at The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. She is active in the Division of Hematology Malignancies, Leukemia Program at the Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center at Johns Hopkins.
Dr. DeZern has expertise in aplastic anemia, myelodysplastic syndromes, paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria, acute myeloid leukemia, and bone marrow transplantation.
Dr. DeZern received her medical degree at The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. She completed a residency in internal medicine at Johns Hopkins, followed by fellowships in medical oncology and hematology, as well as obtained a Masters in Clinical Investigations at the Bloomberg School of Public health.
Dr. DeZern is a member of the American Society of Hematology, the American Society of Clinical Oncology, and the American Society for Transplantation and Cellular Therapy.
Dr. DeZern’s principle research activities consist of designing and conducting clinical trials that test investigational new therapies and approaches in the treatment of bone marrow failure (aplastic anemia and myelodysplastic syndromes). She has specific expertise in the use of alternative donor bone marrow transplantation in patients with severe aplastic anemia and trials of novel therapeutics for patients with myelodysplastic syndromes. Additionally, she has taken a rigorous approach to the study of diagnostics and supportive case (such as transfusion practices) in these patient populations. She is or has been the Principal Investigator for a number of multicenter trials in collaboration with the MDS Clinical Research Consortium, the Eastern Co-operative Oncology Group (ECOG)-ACRIN and now the Bone Marrow Trials Clinical Trials Network (BMTCTN). She is the Study Chair for the multi-site BMTCTN study (CHAMP) investigating the role of haploidentical donor transplantation using post-transplantation cyclophosphamide in patients with relapsed several aplastic anemia. Dr. DeZern is the local PI as well as the Deputy Chair for The National MDS Study, a collaborative natural history study of the NHLBI and the NCI. As a clinical investigator with a focus on translation of novel treatments to the clinic, Dr. DeZern’s goal is to improve outcomes for patients with bone marrow failure at the bedside and in her research environment.
Centers and Institutes
Clinical Trial Keywords
Aplastic Anemia; PNH; MDS; Acute Leukemias, Myeloid Disorders; Bone marrow transplant; Bone Marrow Malignancies
Additional Academic Titles
Professor of Medicine
Contact for Research Inquiries
1650 Orleans Street
CRB 1 Room 3M87
Baltimore, MD 21287
Phone: (410) 502-7208
Research Interests
Bone Marrow Failure Disorders, Bone Marrow Transplantation in Patients with Severe Aplastic Anemia, Novel Therapeutics for Myelodysplastic Syndromes
Research Summary
Dr. DeZern’s research involves a series of clinical investigations related to diagnosis and treatment of bone marrow failure (BMF). Her work is demonstrably changing the standard of care for aplastic anemia and she is the leader of our myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) clinical trials program. She is nationally recognized for her work in marrow failure, both aplastic anemia and MDS. She has distinguished herself as a translator in several novel areas of clinical investigation. She has demonstrated the role of specialized testing to distinguish cellular marrow failure disorders as well genetic evaluations for patients with both inherited and acquired BMF. She also sees patients with cytopenias that may be precursor states to MDS. Dr. DeZern has pioneered a novel treatment approach for relapsed and refractory severe aplastic anemia as well brought haploidentical transplantation to the forefront of therapy for all aplastic anemia patients. Additionally, she has lead several efforts and clinical trials at Hopkins which have resulted in recent approvals of novel therapies for those with MDS. Her ability to develop and translate new biologic insights into the clinical arena has made her a most sought-after clinician for patients and a clinical collaborator for those in research.
Selected Publications
DeZern AE, Zahurak M, Symons H, Cooke K, Jones RJ, Brodsky RA. Alternative Donor Transplantation with High-Dose Post-Transplantation Cyclophosphamide for Refractory Severe Aplastic Anemia. Biol Blood Marrow Transplant. 2017 Mar;23(3):498-504. doi: 10.1016/j.bbmt.2016.12.628. Epub 2016 Dec 21.
DeZern AE, Zahurak ML, Symons HJ, Cooke KR, Rosner GL, Gladstone DE, Huff CA, Swinnen LJ, Imus P, Borrello I, Wagner-Johnston N, Ambinder RF, Luznik L, Bolaños-Meade J, Fuchs EJ, Jones RJ, Brodsky RA. Haploidentical BMT for severe aplastic anemia with intensive GVHD prophylaxis including posttransplant cyclophosphamide. Blood Adv. 2020 Apr 28;4(8):1770-1779. doi: 10.1182/bloodadvances.2020001729.
Dalton WB, Helmenstine E, Pieterse L, Li B, Gocke CD, Donaldson J, Xiao Z, Gondek LP, Ghiaur G, Gojo I, Smith BD, Levis MJ, DeZern AE. The K666N mutation in SF3B1 is associated with increased progression of MDS and distinct RNA splicing. Blood Adv. 2020 Apr 14;4(7):1192-1196. doi: 10.1182/bloodadvances.2019001127. No abstract available.
Gondek LP, DeZern AE. Assessing clonal haematopoiesis: clinical burdens and benefits of diagnosing myelodysplastic syndrome precursor states. Lancet Haematol. 2020 Jan;7(1):e73-e81. doi: 10.1016/S2352-3026(19)30211-X. Epub 2019 Dec 3. Review.
Schratz KE, DeZern AE. Genetic Predisposition to Myelodysplastic Syndrome in Clinical Practice. Hematol Oncol Clin North Am. 2020 Apr;34(2):333-356. doi: 10.1016/j.hoc.2019.10.002. Epub 2020 Jan 6. Review.
Honors
- Emerging Women's Leadership Program, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine
- NCI Cancer Clinical Investigator Team Leadership Award
- Deputy Chair, The National MDS Study, NHLBI, 1/1/20
- Director's Teaching Award, Oncology, The Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, 1/1/13
- Assistant Chief of Service, Osler Medical Service, The Johns Hopkins Hospital, 1/1/09
Memberships
- American Society of Hematology,
Member
- American Society of Clinical Oncology,
Member
- American Board of Internal Medicine,
Member
- American Society for Transplantation and Cellular Therapy,
Member
Professional Activities
- AA-MDS International Foundation, Medical Advisory Board, 1/1/13
- American Society of Hematology, Committee on Educational Affairs, 1/1/19
- American Society of Hematology, Scientific Committee on Bone Marrow Failure, 1/1/20
- The Hematologist, American Society of Hematology, Contributing Editor, 1/1/19
- The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Faculty Senate, 1/1/18
Locations
- Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center
- 401 North Broadway Street, Weinberg BLDG, Baltimore, MD 21287
- phone: 410-955-8964
- fax: 410-367-2194
Expertise
Education
Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine
Fellowship, Oncology, 2012Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health
Graduate School, MHS, 2011Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine
Fellowship, Hematology and Oncology, 2009Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine
Residency, Internal Medicine, 2008Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine
Medical Education, MD, 2005Board Certifications
Hematology
American Board of Internal Medicine, 2013Internal Medicine
American Board of Internal Medicine, 2008Insurance
- Aetna
- CareFirst
- Cigna
- First Health
- Geisinger Health Plan
- HealthSmart/Accel
- Humana
- Johns Hopkins Health Plans
- MultiPlan
- Pennsylvania's Preferred Health Networks (PPHN)
- Point Comfort Underwriters
- Private Healthcare Systems (PHCS)
- UnitedHealthcare
- Veteran Affairs Community Care Network (Optum-VACCN)
Ratings & Reviews
4.9 out of 5
142 ratings, 61 reviewsThe Patient Rating score is an average of all responses to physician related questions on the national CG-CAHPS Medical Practice patient experience survey through Press Ganey. Responses are measured on a scale of 1 to 5, with 5 being the best score. Comments are also gathered from our CG-CAHPS Medical Practice Survey through Press Ganey and displayed in their entirety. Patients are de-identified for confidentiality and patient privacy.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 1/17/2025
Who wants to see an Oncologist, but if you need one Dr. DeZern is the absolute BEST!!! Thank you, Thank you, thank you!!!
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 1/17/2025
Dr. DeZern consistently provides guidance, support and care beyond measure. Dr. DeZern is patient and thoughtful in providing information and recommendations, as well as answering all questions posed.We are thankful to be working with her.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 1/14/2025
Dr Amy DeZern is a compassionate, caring Brilliant oncologist!
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 1/7/2025
Outstanding physician
- 4 out of 5 starsReviewed on 12/27/2024
She's a good provider but tends to deemphasize what I find important
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 12/20/2024
Dr.DeZern is very informative about my illness and is also very encouraging. I am always able to leave our conversations on a positive note.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 12/20/2024
She is in my opinion the best Doctor on the planet
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 12/20/2024
She was excellent and knowledgable, answered all my questions and explained all options for treatment
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 12/20/2024
After several years under her care, I'm pleased to say that Dr. DeZern continues to be the most knowledgeable, diligent, dedicated and professional caregiver I could have hoped for as I confront my present medical condition.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 12/13/2024
Dr. DeZern is simply excellent.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 12/3/2024
I very much appreciate the honesty regarding the treatment plan in place for my relapsed AML. Furthermore, Dr DeZern keeps a daily eye on on my progess, I trust her implicitly.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 12/3/2024
Dr. DeZern is an awesome doctor, she answered all my questions and is very, very knowledgeable in her field. Dr. DeZern addressed my concerns and ease to the condition that I am facing.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 12/3/2024
Very nice person and highly Intelligent
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 11/25/2024
She is very good at explaining things and makes sure you understand what she has shared. She truly shows she cares about her patients.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 11/19/2024
The best!
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 11/14/2024
Dr. Dezern was compassionate, caring & completely knowledgeable for my situation and conditions.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 11/5/2024
Both knowledgeable and compassionate
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 10/29/2024
Dr. DeZern is a very considerate doctor. She really helped me understand my situation, because it is pretty complicated. All questions that was asked either by me or a family member, was answered with honesty and kindness. I feel very blessed to have Dr. DeZern as my doctor.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 10/22/2024
Very compassionate and professional
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 10/18/2024
Dr DeZern is a very compassionate provider and we would recommend her to anyone!
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 10/18/2024
Very happy with provider, seems very knowledgeable and understands my disease and what I am going through.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 10/8/2024
Bless to have the her as my doctor thank you Dr Dezern
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 10/8/2024
Dr. DeZern is probably the best doctor I have ever had. Notwithstanding her knowledge, she responds to questions I have faster than an doctor I have ever had. She is the best hands down.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 10/4/2024
She is the best. Trust her 100 percent
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 10/1/2024
Knowledgeable, kind and helpful. Complete confidence in the provider. Amazing bedside manner. One of the best physicians I have met.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 9/27/2024
Dr. DeZern is professional, thorough, diligent compassionate and caring.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 9/27/2024
Highly professional and able to explain the state of my condition.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 9/20/2024
Dr DeZern is an outstanding physician!
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 9/20/2024
Dr. DeZern was very pleasant, easy to talk to, listened to me, and spend much time with me. I felt like she was my friend or my research colleague. I have only praises for her.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 9/3/2024
Dr DeZern is very caring and clearly explains all aspects of my condition. I am very satisfied with the care she provides.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 9/3/2024
Always responsive
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 9/3/2024
Dr.DeZern is obviously very concerned about my health and well-being. She is very patient in answering all my questions and is never condescending.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 8/30/2024
Took time to talk through and explain things.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 8/30/2024
Dr. DeZern is the best!
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 8/23/2024
Love her
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 8/20/2024
Excellent
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 8/2/2024
Dr. DeZern is very knowledgeable and also compassionate and caring. Very fortunate to have her for my doctor.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 7/30/2024
She is excellent I'm every way
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 7/23/2024
Extremely knowledgeable
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 7/19/2024
Dr. DeZern is the best. She is very understanding, caring and thorough. She is also incredibly responsive and helpful. I completely trust her.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 7/12/2024
I have been seeing Dr. DeZern for several years and she is absolutely the BEST. She is kind, thoughtful and through. You could not ask for a better experience.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 6/28/2024
Dr. DeZern is the top of the field in my problem and is remarkably attentive to my needs and concerns. I am fortunate to be under her care.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 6/14/2024
Best doctor
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 6/11/2024
Dr DeZern is the best
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 6/7/2024
Very thankful for Dr. DeZern's counsel
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 5/31/2024
Dr Dezern is a very knowledgeable oncologist, one who is extremely caring for me and her other patients I am sure. She always prompt in her responses to my questions. She alwaysmessages me as soon as my outside lab result are posted, even on the weekend!
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 5/31/2024
Excellent doctor
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 5/31/2024
Very knowledgeable in her field.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 5/14/2024
I love working with her to handle my condition. It has been years and although she is a long drive for me I wouldn't have it any other way.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 5/14/2024
Dr. DeZern is professional, compassionate, thorough and patient.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 5/14/2024
She is the best. Shows concern and always comforting
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 5/10/2024
Dr. Dezern was so welcoming and accepting of me. She provided an incredible amount of time for my appointment. All of my many concerns and questions were addressed. I felt comfortable and was made to feel at ease throughout my visit. Dr. Dezern was clear in her explanations and thoroughly covered all topics of concern. I feel blessed to have had the opportunity to meet with Dr. Dezern. She comforted me and allayed my fears. My heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Dezern.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 5/7/2024
Looks at me as a person. Doesn't just see the disease. Feel seen and heard.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 5/7/2024
Dr. DeZern is a very knowledgeable, caring physician and I am happy to be in her care.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 5/3/2024
I feel so fortunate to have been able to Make an appointment with Dr. DeZern. Dr. DeZern was able to clarify all my questions concerning the results of my blood work which, in turn alleviated my anxiety.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 5/3/2024
She was great and explained in great detail that I could understand
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 4/26/2024
I could not say enough about the care I get from Dr Dezern , she is the most caring and wonderful person you could ever meet , I'm so glad she's taking care of me could not thank her enough
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 4/25/2024
This provider was very caring to my Illness and needs.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 4/23/2024
Knowledgeable, good listener, helpful
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 4/15/2024
First visit with more to come , everyone pleasant
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 3/26/2024
Outstanding