L-asparaginase induced intracranial haemorrhage in acute lymphoblastic leukemia

Singapore Med J. 1998 Feb;39(2):76-8.

Abstract

A 20-year-old national serviceman with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia, developed a large left parieto-occipital haemorrhage 7 days after completion of induction chemotherapy. Severe hypofibrinogenemia had been noted while he was receiving L-asparaginase. The haemorrhage could not be attributed to thrombocytopenia, disseminated intravascular coagulopathy, arterio-venous malformation, berry aneurysm or leukaemic infiltration because each of these causes was carefully investigated into and excluded. We conclude that the intracranial haemorrhage was likely L-asparaginase induced, an uncommon but recognised complication associated with L-asparaginase therapy.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Antineoplastic Agents / adverse effects*
  • Antineoplastic Agents / therapeutic use
  • Asparaginase / adverse effects*
  • Asparaginase / therapeutic use
  • Cerebral Hemorrhage / chemically induced*
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Precursor Cell Lymphoblastic Leukemia-Lymphoma / drug therapy*

Substances

  • Antineoplastic Agents
  • Asparaginase