Objective: To search for a safer and more effective way of using L-asparaginase as the main drug in combination protocol.
Method: Twenty children with lymphoid malignancies were randomly divided into two groups: Group A and Group B, for L-asparaginase therapy. Group A: Leunase 6,000 KU/m2, continuous intravenous injection every day for 8 times; Group B: Leunase 6,000 KU/m2, continuous intravenous injection every other day for 8 times. Blood samples were collected every day for group A and every other day for group B and serum L-asparaginase and L-asparagine levels were tested.
Results: 1. The pre-treatment mean value of serum L-asparaginase in group A was significantly higher than that in group B (P < 0.01). The levels of L-asparaginase in group A tended to increase day by day during the therapeutic course while those in group B without increasing tendency. 2. The L-asparagine levels and their dynamic changes were not significantly different between the two groups (P > 0.05).
Conclusion: The administration of Leunase by continuous intravenous injection every other day is a much safer and effective protocol and worthy of recommendation.