Our Experiences with Asparaginase Activity Measurements in Children with Lymphoblastic Diseases

Background: Asparaginase is a key component of chemotherapy protocols for the treatment lymphoblastic malignancies among children. Adequate asparagine depletion an important factor to achieve optimal therapeutic outcomes. Methods: Over 3.5 year period, 106 patients were monitored asparaginase activity (329 samples) in single center Hungarian Pediatric Oncology–Hematology Group. In Hungary, three products are available: native E. coli ASNase (Kidrolase), pegylated form this enzyme (Pegaspargase) and another product from Erwinia chrysanthemi (Erwinase). A retrospective data analysis was performed. Results: 81% (268/329) our patients, AEA levels range over 100 IU/L. Of 13 (12%) diagnosed with ‘silent inactivation’. Conclusions: Monitoring can help identify inactivation’ their therapy thus be optimized.