Recurrent cerebrovascular accident with L-asparaginase rechallenge

Med Pediatr Oncol. 1992;20(6):532-4. doi: 10.1002/mpo.2950200608.

Abstract

We report a 15-year-old boy diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) in 1983. Induction therapy included L-asparaginase. After the second dose of L-asparaginase, he had a left sided focal seizure and computed tomography (CT) scan of the head showed a right frontal infarct. No further L-asparaginase was given. Complete remission was achieved and he successfully completed therapy in 1986. Eight months later he had an isolated bone marrow relapse. Reinduction therapy included L-asparaginase. After the fourth dose of L-asparaginase, he presented with severe headache and a CT scan showed a right temporal infarct. Repeat infarction on rechallenge with L-asparaginase has not been previously reported. Prophylactic therapy, such as fresh frozen plasma, should be considered before patients, with a previous cerebral insult, are rechallenged with L-asparaginase. However the effectiveness of such therapy has not been established.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Asparaginase / administration & dosage
  • Asparaginase / adverse effects*
  • Cerebral Infarction / chemically induced*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Precursor Cell Lymphoblastic Leukemia-Lymphoma / drug therapy*
  • Remission Induction
  • Risk

Substances

  • Asparaginase