Pegaspargase Re-Challenge after Grade 2 Hypersensitivity Reaction in Childhood Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia: Results from DFCI 16-001

Introduction: Hypersensitivity reactions with asparaginase occur frequently in pediatric patients (pts) with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). The standard approach for pts with reaction to E.coli-derived asparaginase is to switch to Erwinia asparaginase, given concern that clinical reactions reflect presence of neutralizing antibodies; however, Erwinia requires more frequent dosing and is often unavailable. Therapeutic drug monitoring allows for discrimination between pts with pegaspargase hypersensitivity who have sub-therapeutic asparaginase activity and those still able to derive therapeutic benefit from pegaspargase. We prospectively piloted re-challenging pts with pegaspargase after initial Grade 2 hypersensitivity to this agent, with premedication at re-challenge and assessment of serum asparaginase activity (SAA). Methods: Pts aged 1 to < 22 years with newly diagnosed ALL were eligible for DFCI 16-001. Pts received 1 dose of intravenous pegaspargase during Induction, and every 2 weeks for 15 total doses in Post-Induction phases, without routine premedication. Pts were monitored during/after pegaspargase for allergy, with CTCAE version 4.0 event grading. Those with ≥Grade 3 allergy discontinued pegaspargase and were switched to Erwinia. Those with Grade 2 allergic reaction were eligible for pegaspargase re-challenge with pre-medication (acetaminophen, diphenhydramine, and hydrocortisone, or per institutional standard) and slower infusion rate. If < 50% of the intended dose had been administered when reaction occurred, re-challenge was within 1-7 days of initial reaction. If ≥ 50% of the intended dose had been given, re-challenge was at next planned pegaspargase dose. SAA was measured 1-hour, 7-days, and 14-days after the re-challenge infusion (if dose completed). If 1-hour or 7-day level ≥ 0.1 IU/mL, and 14-day level ≥ 0.025 IU/mL, SAA was considered adequate, and the pt continued to receive pegaspargase with premedication. Pts with an inadequate SAA level, or with new ≥ Grade 2 allergic reaction with the re-challenge dose were considered to have failed re-challenge and were changed to Erwinia (or enrolled on a clinical trial of recombinant crisantaspase, an alternative Erwinia preparation). Results: Between 3/2017- 7/2020, 317 eligible pts enrolled. Overall, 81 of 299 (27%) total evaluable pts experienced a first allergic reaction to pegaspargase, 68 pts with Grade 2 reaction, 13 with Grade ≥3. During Induction, 17 of 299 (6%) evaluable pts had allergic reaction to pegaspargase; all Grade 2. Of the 17 Grade 2 reactions, 13 pts (76%) underwent re-challenge in Induction, 9 (69%) re-challenges successful and 4 failed. Post-Induction, 64 of 241 evaluable pts (27%) had a first allergic reaction; 51 Grade 2 and 13 Grade ≥3. Thirty-six of 51 (71%) pts with Grade 2 allergy during Post-Induction underwent re-challenge, as did 1 additional pt with allergy during Induction who was re-challenged with first Post-Induction pegaspargase dose (per protocol guideline, due to receiving ≥50% of Induction dose). Among these re-challenges, 16 were successful, 21 failed. Overall, 25 of 50 (50%) pts who were re-challenged after Grade 2 reaction had a successful challenge and were able to continue pegaspargase. Among the 25 pts with failed re-challenge, 6 pts (24%) had inadequate SAA alone as cause of failure, 17 pts (68%) had an allergic reaction with the re-challenge dose, and 2 (8%) additional patients had both allergic reaction and documented inadequate SAA. Three pts who were successfully re-challenged had a subsequent allergic reaction to pegaspargase. Among the 22 pts who experienced another allergic reaction with pegaspargase (at re-challenge or subsequent dose), 19 pts (86%) experienced Grade 2, and 3 pts experienced Grade 3 reaction. Conclusion: Fifty percent of pts with a Grade 2 reaction to pegaspargase were able to tolerate and achieve adequate SAA when re-challenged with premedication. For those who did react with or after re-challenge, reactions were not more severe. The re-challenge approach limits premedication exposure only to a minority of pts with a history of prior reaction and substantially decreases the number of pts needing to switch to Erwinia asparaginase, which can be challenging to deliver due to administration schedule and drug shortage. Disclosures Place: Novartis: Consultancy, Other: Institutional Research Funding; AbbVie: Consultancy. Silverman:Takeda: Other: advisory board; Servier: Other: advisory board; Syndax: Other: advisory board.

Download Full-text

Individualized Asparaginase Dosing in Childhood Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia

Journal of Clinical Oncology ◽

10.1200/jco.19.02292 ◽

2020 ◽

Vol 38 (7) ◽

pp. 715-724

Author(s):

Robin Q.H. Kloos ◽

Rob Pieters ◽

Florine M.V. Jumelet ◽

Hester A. de Groot-Kruseman ◽

Cor van den Bos ◽

...

Keyword(s):

Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia ◽

Hypersensitivity Reaction ◽

Lymphoblastic Leukemia ◽

Activity Levels ◽

Medium Risk ◽

Risk Patients ◽

Asparaginase Activity ◽

Erwinia Asparaginase ◽

Grade 3 ◽

Trough Levels

PURPOSE In the DCOG ALL-11 protocol, polyethylene glycol–conjugated Escherichia coli asparaginase (PEGasparaginase) and Erwinia asparaginase treatment of pediatric acute lymphoblastic leukemia are individualized with therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM). The efficacy of TDM and its effect on asparaginase-associated toxicity are reported. PATIENTS AND METHODS After induction with 3 fixed intravenous doses of 1,500 IU/m2 PEGasparaginase, medium-risk patients (n = 243) received 14 individualized doses that targeted trough levels of 100-250 IU/L, standard-risk patients (n = 108) received 1 individualized dose, and high-risk patients (n = 18) received 2-5 fixed administrations (1,500 IU/m2). After a neutralizing hypersensitivity reaction, patients were started with 20,000 IU/m2 Erwinia asparaginase 3 times per week, and l-asparagine was measured to monitor asparaginase efficacy. Several asparaginase-associated toxicities were studied. RESULTS The final median PEGasparaginase dose was lowered to 450 IU/m2. Overall, 97% of all trough levels of nonallergic patients were > 100 IU/L. Asparagine was < 0.5 μM in 96% and 67% of the PEGasparaginase and Erwinia asparaginase levels > 100 IU/L, respectively. Ten percent developed a neutralizing hypersensitivity reaction to PEGasparaginase, of which 40% were silent inactivations. The cumulative incidence of grade 3-4 pancreatitis, central neurotoxicity, and thromboses was 12%, 4%, and 6%, respectively, and not associated with asparaginase activity levels. During medium-risk intensification, 50% had increased ALT and 3% hyperbilirubinemia (both grade 3/4 and correlated with asparaginase activity levels), and 37% had grade 3/4 hypertriglyceridemia. Hypertriglyceridemia occurred less in intensification compared with ALL-10 (37% v 47%), which is similar to ALL-11 but with higher asparaginase levels during intensification. CONCLUSION TDM of asparaginase results in a significant reduction of the PEGasparaginase dose with adequate asparaginase activity levels and sufficient asparagine depletion. In addition, with TDM, silent inactivation and allergic-like reactions were identified. However, the effect of reduced asparaginase activity levels on toxicity is limited.

Download Full-text

Phase I Study of Ixazomib Added to Chemotherapy in the Treatment of Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia in Older Adults

Blood ◽

10.1182/blood-2020-139661 ◽

2020 ◽

Vol 136 (Supplement 1) ◽

pp. 41-42

Author(s):

Philip C. Amrein ◽

Karen K. Ballen ◽

Kristen E. Stevenson ◽

Traci M. Blonquist ◽

Andrew M. Brunner ◽

...

Keyword(s):

Overall Survival ◽

Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia ◽

Complete Remission ◽

Board Of Directors ◽

Research Funding ◽

Lymphoblastic Leukemia ◽

Advisory Committees ◽

Survival Estimate ◽

Grade 3 ◽

Experienced Grade

Introduction: While progress has been made in the treatment of childhood leukemia, the outlook for patients >60 years of age with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is poor with complete remission rates (CR) of approximately 60% and 3-year survivals (OS) of less than 15%. Intensified treatment in a later CALGB trial showed little improvement with a CR=61% and 5-year OS=6% (Stock, Cancer 2013). Ixazomib is an oral proteasome inhibitor, which has shown single agent activity and promising combination activity in pediatric ALL patients (Messinger, Blood 2012). We sought to assess the safety and tolerability, as well as early efficacy of adding ixazomib to a current MGH-DFCI/HCC multi-agent regimen for older adults with ALL. Methods: Patients aged 51 to 75 years of age with newly diagnosed B-ALL and T-ALL were screened for eligibility. Patients with mature ALL (including Burkitt's) were excluded. Patients with Philadelphia chromosome positive ALL (BCR-ABL1+) were eligible, and dasatinib was added to the chemotherapy on Day 10 for these patients. The chemotherapy treatment schedule from induction through maintenance is outlined in Table 1. A standard 3 + 3 patient cohort dose escalation design was used to determine the maximum tolerated dose (MTD) of ixazomib during induction for these patients, the primary objective of the trial. After consolidation I, patients in complete remission (CR) with a suitable donor were offered a hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) as per institutional guidelines. Those not going to HSCT continued therapy as noted in the table. Results: There were 19 patients with B-ALL enrolled, none with T-ALL. Among these patients, 7 harbored BCR-ABL1 rearrangements. The median age was 65 years, 74% were male, and 90% had a performance status 0 or 1. The MTD was 2.3 mg of ixazomib, as 2 patients at 3.0 mg developed DLT's: a grade 3 peripheral neuropathy and a grade 5 acute kidney injury (Table 2). Grade 3 and 4 toxicities encountered at any time consisted mainly of grade 4 neutropenia in 13 patients and grade 4 thrombocytopenia in 12 patients. One patient experienced grade 3 neutropenia and 5 patients experienced grade 3 thrombocytopenia. Two patients with grade 2 neuropathy did not meet the definition of DLT. Among the 19 patients, 15 (79%, [95% confidence interval (CI), 54-94%]) achieved CR (14) or CRi (1), and 5 patients went on to HSCT. The median follow-up time was 2 years (range, 1-5) for 8 patients remaining alive. The 1-year overall survival estimate was 53% [95% CI, 29-72%], while the 2-year overall survival estimate was 47% [95% CI, 24-67%]. Conclusions: A dose of 2.3 mg of ixazomib in combination with induction chemotherapy among older patients with ALL was well-tolerated and associated with a promising rate of complete remission. Disclosures Amrein: Takeda: Research Funding; AstraZeneca: Consultancy, Research Funding; Amgen: Research Funding. Brunner:Celgene: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding; Takeda: Research Funding; AstraZeneca: Research Funding; Forty-Seven Inc: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Jazz Pharmaceuticals: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Novartis: Research Funding. Hobbs:Novartis: Honoraria; Celgene/BMS: Honoraria; Jazz: Honoraria; Constellation: Honoraria, Research Funding; Incyte: Research Funding; Merck: Research Funding; Bayer: Research Funding. Neuberg:Celgene: Research Funding; Pharmacyclics: Research Funding; Madrigak Pharmaceuticals: Current equity holder in publicly-traded company. Fathi:Takeda: Consultancy, Research Funding; Agios: Consultancy, Research Funding; PTC Therapeutics: Consultancy; Amphivena: Consultancy; Astellas: Consultancy; Daiichi Sankyo: Consultancy; Novartis: Consultancy; Newlink Genetics: Consultancy; Pfizer: Consultancy; Blueprint: Consultancy; Trillium: Consultancy; Kura Oncology: Consultancy; Forty Seven: Consultancy; Jazz: Consultancy; Boston Biomedical: Consultancy; BMS/Celgene: Consultancy, Research Funding; Kite: Consultancy; Trovagene: Consultancy; Amgen: Consultancy; Seattle Genetics: Consultancy, Research Funding; Abbvie: Consultancy. OffLabel Disclosure: MLN 9708, ixazomib is FDA approved for multiple myeloma. In this trial it is used to treat acute lymphoblastic leukemia.

Download Full-text

High-Grade Pegylated Asparaginase-Related Hepatotoxicity Occurrence In a Pediatric-Inspired Adult Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia Regimen Does Not Necessarily Predict Recurrent Hepatotoxicity In Subsequent Cycles

Blood ◽

10.1182/blood.v122.21.2671.2671 ◽

2013 ◽

Vol 122 (21) ◽

pp. 2671-2671 ◽

Cited By ~ 2

Author(s):

Patrick W. Burke ◽

Ibrahim Aldoss ◽

Matthew A. Lunning ◽

Vassilios I. Avramis ◽

Ann M. Mohrbacher ◽

...

Keyword(s):

Adverse Effect ◽

Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia ◽

Lymphoblastic Leukemia ◽

Common Adverse Effect ◽

High Rate ◽

High Grade ◽

Post Induction ◽

Multiple Doses ◽

Pediatric All ◽

Grade 3

Abstract Introduction Cure rates of pediatric acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) have markedly improved to approximately 80%, while in adult ALL the rates remain 40-50%. Pediatric ALL regimens contain higher doses of non-myelosuppressive chemotherapy, e.g., vincristine, corticosteroids, and, particularly, higher cumulative doses of asparaginase. Asparaginase use in adults was previously limited due to toxicity concerns. However, several recent studies, using pediatric regimens in adults, contain higher cumulative doses of asparaginase and are showing promising preliminary results. In these studies it was also noted that the long-acting pegaspargase (PEG-ASN) was much more commonly associated with hepatotoxicity in adults than in children. Although hepatotoxicity appears to be the commonest adverse effect of PEG-ASN in adults, it has not been well defined. We report the frequency and characteristics of PEG-ASN-related high-grade hepatotoxicity after multiple doses in adults treated by a pediatric regimen. Methods Between July 2004 and July 2009, 51 adults aged 18 to 57 years were enrolled on a phase II trial with a pediatric ALL regimen that included six planned PEG-ASN doses. PEG-ASN-related toxicities were carefully monitored on a weekly basis after each dose and reported using NCI CTCAE v3.0 for 185 doses delivered. The PEG-ASN dosing schedule was: two doses in induction phases I and II, and four during post-induction cycles (ASH Abstract 1495, 2012). Each PEG-ASN dose was 2000 IU/m2/dose IV, given at intervals of four weeks or greater. Pegaspargase was not discontinued and subsequent doses were not reduced after hepatotoxicity. Results A total of 192 pegaspargase doses were delivered (3.8 doses/patient), with 23 patients receiving all six doses. Of the 28 patients who received fewer than six doses, only 10 (20%) discontinued due non-hepatic toxicity (pancreatitis, allergy, and DVT). Eight (16%) patients discontinued due to allogeneic HSCT while in CR1, while nine (18%) discontinued for other reasons (death post-induction, induction failure, and relapse). Grade 3/4 hyperbilirubinemia occurred in 16 patients (31%) and in 23 doses (12%); grade 3/4 transaminitis occurred in 33 patients (65%) and in 62 doses (34%). Patients with grade 3/4 hyperbilirubinemia tended to be older than those without hepatotoxicity (median age 39 vs 31 years), but all other baseline characteristics were similar. Results of different parameters related to high-grade liver toxicity are detailed in Table 1. Patients with grade 3/4 hyperbilirubinemia and transaminitis received a mean of 4.0 and 4.3 PEG-ASN doses, while the mean number of PEG-ASN doses causing hyperbilirubinemia and transaminitis was only 1.4 and 1.9 doses per patient, respectively. Those without hepatotoxicity received 2.8 PEG-ASN doses per patient. Induction I had the highest incidence (20% of doses delivered) of grade 3/4 hyperbilirubinemia. High-grade transaminitis was spread more evenly among cycles. Grade 3/4 hepatotoxicity was long, with a median duration of 34 days to return to grade 1 for bilirubin and 38 days to return to grade 2 for transaminitis. Of the 16 patients with grade 3/4 hyperbilirubinemia, five did not receive a subsequent PEG-ASN dose for other reasons; of the 11 other patients who received subsequent doses, five (45%) did not re-experience the same toxicity. Of the 33 patients with grade 3/4 transaminitis, eight did not receive a subsequent PEG-ASN dose due to other reasons; of the 25 other patients who received subsequent doses, 10 (40%) did not have this toxicity recur. Summary Our study shows in adults with ALL treated with multiple doses of PEG-ASN that: (1) high-grade hepatoxicity (grade 3/4 hyperbilirubinemia and transaminitis) is a common adverse effect of PEG-ASN; (2) recovery from hepatotoxicity is often long and can delay subsequent chemotherapy; (3) high-grade hepatotoxicity did not necessarily recur after subsequent doses and did not lead to PEG-ASN discontinuation; (4) the dose and schedule of other hepatically cleared or hepatotoxic drugs should be adjusted during periods of PEG-ASN-related hepatotoxicity. In conclusion, although PEG-ASN at this dose and interval is associated in adults with a high rate of hepatotoxicity, it is tolerable and can be given again despite earlier PEG-ASN-related hepatotoxicity. Disclosures: Douer: Sigma Tau Pharmaceuticals : Research Funding.

Download Full-text

A Meta-Analysis of Hypersensitivity to Pegylated Escherichia coli Asparaginase Used As First-Line Treatment in Contemporary Pediatric Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia Protocols

Blood ◽

10.1182/blood-2021-144674 ◽

2021 ◽

Vol 138 (Supplement 1) ◽

pp. 2308-2308

Author(s):

Leiah Brigitha ◽

Marta Fiocco ◽

Rob Pieters ◽

Birgitte Klug Albertsen ◽

Gabriele Escherich ◽

...

Keyword(s):

Lymphoblastic Leukemia ◽

Induction Treatment ◽

Induction Phase ◽

Allergic Reactions ◽

Line Treatment ◽

First Line ◽

Post Induction ◽

Asparaginase Activity ◽

Erwinia Asparaginase ◽

First Line Treatment

Abstract PURPOSE Asparaginase is a key component of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) therapy. Hypersensitivity reactions challenge its use and occur frequently (30-75%) after native Escherichia. Coli (E.coli) asparaginase (Appel et al., 2008; Muller et al., 2001; Panosyan et al., 2004; Silverman et al., 2001). The international ALL Ponte di Legno Toxicity Work Group (PTWG) classifies hypersensitivity to asparaginase as (i) allergy in case of symptoms of allergy (always associated with undetectable asparaginase activity levels), (ii) allergic-like reactions in case of symptoms without inactivation, and (iii) silent inactivation (SI) with inactivation of asparaginase activity, but without hypersensitivity symptoms (Schmiegelow et al., 2016). Allergic-like reactions and SI can only be diagnosed with monitoring of asparaginase activity levels. A meta-analysis was performed based on data from the PTWG to estimate the incidence of hypersensitivity and risk factors for hypersensitivity to asparaginase in ALL protocols using pegylated E.coli asparaginase (PEGasparaginase) as first line of treatment. PATIENTS AND METHODS Questionnaires were sent to all members of the PTWG. Information on protocol level regarding PEGasparaginase dose, dosing regimen (e.g. dosing frequency, total number of doses, PEGasparaginase-free intervals(s)), administration route, total induction and post-induction hypersensitivity rates per protocol and per risk group and use of therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM). To facilitate comparison between protocols with and without TDM, we defined allergic reactions as the sum of allergies and allergic-like reactions. Silent inactivation was analyzed separately. RESULTS A total of 5880 patients with newly diagnosed ALL, aged 1 to 24 years old, were enrolled in seven different upfront ALL protocols using PEGasparaginase as first-line treatment. The overall incidence of allergic reactions along with 95% confidence interval (CI) were 9% [6%; 13%], 2% [1%; 3%] and 8% [5%; 11%] in the overall protocol, induction and post-induction, respectively (Figure 1). Severity of allergic reactions were described, according to the CTCAE version 3.0 or 4.03, per protocol. 47% of the reactions were classified as grade 3/4. Univariate meta-regression analysis showed a positive association between the incidence of allergic reactions and number of PEGasparaginase-free intervals (P=0.005). High risk group stratification (P<0.001), post-induction treatment phase (P<0.001) and start of PEGasparaginase treatment in post-induction (P=0.006) were also associated with a higher incidence of allergic reactions. Route of administration (IV (8.9%, range 8.6-10.5%) versus IM (6.5%, range 5.5-14.8%)) did not significantly influence risk of hypersensitivity. Number of doses, duration of first PEGasparaginase-free interval and dosage did not significantly influence risk of hypersensitivity. Multivariate meta-regression analysis showed a positive association between the incidence of allergic reactions and the number of PEGasparaginase-free intervals (P=0.006) and start of PEGasparaginase in the post-induction treatment phase (P=0.02). Two out of seven study groups reported an incidence of allergic reactions of 1.6-2.0%, which was 9-16% of all hypersensitivity. Three out of seven study groups reported an incidence of SI of 3.7-4.1%, which was 23-29% of all hypersensitivity reactions. All protocols prescribed a switch to Erwinia asparaginase in case of clinical hypersensitivity and/or SI. 308 out of 348 (89%) of the patients with hypersensitivity to PEGasparaginase received Erwinia asparaginase. 19 out of these 308 (6%) exposed patients had an allergic reaction to Erwinia asparaginase, of which 7 out of 19 (37%) were grade 3/4. CONCLUSION The incidence of allergic reactions is lower in protocols using PEGasparaginase as first-line treatment compared to that reported for native E.coli asparaginase or PEGasparaginase after native E.coli asparaginase. Post-induction phase, a higher number of PEGasparaginase-free intervals, and initiation of PEGasparaginase in post-induction phase are risk factors for allergic reactions. These results are important for planning of PEGasparaginase administrations in future frontline therapy. Figure 1 Figure 1. Disclosures Albertsen: Erytech: Honoraria, Speakers Bureau; Servier: Speakers Bureau; BKA: Other: Sponsor of the investigator-initiated trial NOR-GRASPALL2016.

Download Full-text

Pediatric-Inspired Chemotherapy Incorporating Pegaspargase Is Safe and Results in High Rates of MRD Negativity in Adults Ages 18-60 with Philadelphia Chromosome-Negative Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia and Lymphoblastic Lymphoma

Blood ◽

10.1182/blood-2018-99-115486 ◽

2018 ◽

Vol 132 (Supplement 1) ◽

pp. 4013-4013 ◽

Cited By ~ 2

Author(s):

Mark Blaine Geyer ◽

Ellen K. Ritchie ◽

Arati V. Rao ◽

M. Isabella Cazacu ◽

Shreya Vemuri ◽

...

Keyword(s):

Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia ◽

Board Of Directors ◽

Research Funding ◽

Lymphoblastic Leukemia ◽

Philadelphia Chromosome ◽

Advisory Board ◽

Lymphoblastic Lymphoma ◽

Advisory Committees ◽

Grade 3

Abstract Introduction: Among adolescents and young adults with (w/) acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) or lymphoblastic lymphoma (LBL), treatment using a pediatric (vs. adult) regimen appears to achieve superior event-free (EFS) and overall survival (OS); this observation has driven increased interest in adapting pediatric regimens for middle-aged adults w/ ALL/LBL. However, greater risk of toxicities associated w/ asparaginase complicates administration of pediatric-inspired regimens in adults. We therefore designed a pediatric-inspired chemotherapy regimen w/ doses of pegaspargase (PEG) rationally synchronized to limit overlapping toxicities w/ other chemotherapeutic agents. Methods: We conducted a phase II multi-center trial in adults ages 18-60 w/ newly-diagnosed Philadelphia chromosome-negative (Ph-) ALL/LBL (NCT01920737). Pts w/ Ph+ ALL or Burkitt-type ALL were ineligible. The treatment regimen consisted of 2-phase induction (I-1, I-2), followed by consolidation w/ 2 courses of alternating high-dose methotrexate-based intensification and reinduction, followed by 3 years of maintenance (Figure 1). PEG 2000 IU/m2 was administered in each of the 6 intensive courses of induction/consolidation at intervals of ≥4 weeks. Minimal residual disease (MRD) was assessed in bone marrow (BM) by multiparameter flow cytometry (FACS) on day (d) 15 of I1 and following I-1 and I-2. Any detectable MRD (even <0.01% of BM WBCs) was considered positive. Toxicities were assessed by CTCAE v4.0. Results: 39 pts were enrolled (30M, 9F), w/ B-ALL (n=28), T-ALL (n=7), B-LBL (n=3), and T-LBL (n=5). Median age at start of treatment was 38.3 years (range 20.2-60.4), w/ 18 pts age 40-60. Grade 3-4 toxicities associated w/ PEG are summarized in Table 1. Grade 3-4 hyperbilirubinemia was observed post-PEG in I-1 in 9 pts, but only recurred thereafter in 1/8 pts resuming PEG. Pts completing consolidation on protocol (n=16) received median of 6 doses of PEG (range, 2-6). Four pts developed hypersensitivity to PEG and subsequently received Erwinia asparaginase. PEG was discontinued in 4 additional pts due to hepatotoxicity (n=2), pancreatitis (n=1), and physician preference (n=1). Of pts w/ available response assessments, 35/36 (97%) achieved morphologic complete response (CR) or CR w/ incomplete hematologic recovery (CRi) following I-1 (n=34) or I-2 (n=1). Both pts not achieving CR/CRi after I-I had early T-precursor ALL; one of these pts was withdrawn from study, and the other (w/ M2 marrow after I-1) achieved CR after I-2. Of the pts w/ ALL (excluding LBL) w/ available BM MRD assessments, 11/28 (39%) achieved undetectable MRD by FACS following I-1; 18/22 (82%) achieved undetectable MRD by FACS following I-2. Of the pts w/ LBL w/ available BM MRD assessments, 7/7 (100%) achieved or maintained undetectable MRD by FACS following I-1 and I-2. Ten pts underwent allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (alloHCT) in CR1. Seven pts experienced relapse at median 15.2 months from start of treatment (range, 5.4-30.4), of whom 6 subsequently underwent 1st (n=5) or 2nd (n=1) alloHCT. Of the 11 pts w/ ALL w/ undetectable MRD following I-1, only one has relapsed. Five patients have died, including 2 pts in CR1 (from sepsis and multi-organ system failure), and 3 pts in relapse. At median follow-up of 22.3 months among surviving pts (range, 1.0-48.1), median EFS and OS (Figure 2A&B) have not been reached (EFS not censored at alloHCT). 3-year EFS was 62.1% (95% CI: 38.4-78.9%) and 3-year OS was 80.0% (95% CI: 57.5-91.4%). Conclusions: PEG can be incorporated into pediatric-inspired chemotherapy regimens w/ manageable toxicity for appropriately selected adults up to age 60 w/ Ph- ALL/LBL. While PEG-related AEs are common, few pts require permanent discontinuation of asparaginase. Grade 3-4 hyperbilirubinemia was common, particularly post-I-1, but recurred infrequently when PEG was continued. Two induction courses resulted in a high rate of MRD negativity post-I-2 and translated to a low rate of relapse. Though further follow-up is required, 3-year EFS is encouraging. Data regarding asparaginase enzyme activity and silent inactivation w/ neutralizing anti-PEG antibody will be presented. Ongoing and future studies will additionally investigate whether incorporating novel therapies (e.g. blinatumomab, nelarabine) into frontline consolidation therapy may reduce risk of relapse among adults receiving PEG-containing regimens. Disclosures Geyer: Dava Oncology: Honoraria. Ritchie:Celgene: Consultancy, Other: Travel, Accommodations, Expenses, Speakers Bureau; NS Pharma: Research Funding; Incyte: Consultancy, Speakers Bureau; ARIAD Pharmaceuticals: Speakers Bureau; Astellas Pharma: Research Funding; Bristol-Myers Squibb: Research Funding; Novartis: Consultancy, Other: Travel, Accommodations, Expenses, Research Funding, Speakers Bureau; Pfizer: Consultancy, Research Funding. Rao:Kite, a Gilead Company: Employment. Tallman:Daiichi-Sankyo: Other: Advisory board; AROG: Research Funding; Cellerant: Research Funding; AbbVie: Research Funding; BioSight: Other: Advisory board; Orsenix: Other: Advisory board; ADC Therapeutics: Research Funding. Douer:Shire: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Speakers Bureau; Gilead Sciences: Consultancy; Amgen: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Speakers Bureau; Jazz Pharmaceuticals: Consultancy; Pfizer: Honoraria; Spectrum: Consultancy. Park:Kite Pharma: Consultancy; Juno Therapeutics: Consultancy, Research Funding; Amgen: Consultancy, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; AstraZeneca: Consultancy; Novartis: Consultancy; Shire: Consultancy; Pfizer: Consultancy; Adaptive Biotechnologies: Consultancy.

Download Full-text

Toxicity of Very Prolonged Pegasparaginase and Erwinia Asparaginase Courses in Relation to Asparaginase Activity Levels with a Special Focus on Dyslipidemia

Blood ◽

10.1182/blood.v124.21.2256.2256 ◽

2014 ◽

Vol 124 (21) ◽

pp. 2256-2256

Author(s):

Wing H. Tong ◽

Rob Pieters ◽

Hester A. de Groot-Kruseman ◽

Wim C.J. Hop ◽

Joachim Boos ◽

...

Keyword(s):

Mixed Models ◽

Lymphoblastic Leukemia ◽

Ammonia Level ◽

P Value ◽

Special Focus ◽

Activity Levels ◽

Central Neurotoxicity ◽

Asparaginase Activity ◽

Erwinia Asparaginase ◽

Grade 3

Abstract Purpose We prospectively studied the incidence and clinical course of hypertriglyceridemia and hypercholesterolemia during very prolonged use of PEGasparaginase or Erwinia asparaginase in relation to asparaginase activity levels in children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). Also, the incidence of pancreatitis, thrombosis, hyperammonemia and central neurotoxicity and their association with asparaginase activity levels were evaluated. Patients and Methods Patients were treated according to Dutch Childhood Oncology Group (DCOG) ALL-10 medium risk intensification protocol, which includes 15 doses of PEGasparaginase (2,500 IU/m2) for 30 weeks. Erwinia asparaginase (20,000 IU/m2) was administered when an allergy to or silent inactivation of PEGasparaginase occurred. Definitions of silent inactivation of PEGasparaginase and Erwinia asparaginase were previously described (Tong et al., Blood, 2014 Mar;123(13):2026-33). Hypertriglyceridemia, hypercholesterolemia, hyperammonemia, pancreatitis, thrombosis and central neurotoxicity were graded according to the National Cancer Institute (NCI) Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (CTCAE). Changes over time of triglyceride, cholesterol, and ammonia levels were evaluated using mixed models analysis of variance (ANOVA). Changes related to age and gender were also investigated using mixed models ANOVA. The incidence of toxicities (pancreatitis, thrombosis, central neurotoxicity) related to treatment (PEGasparaginase or Erwinia asparaginase) was investigated with the Fisher's exact tests. Finally, Spearman correlation coefficients were used to evaluate the relations between triglyceride, cholesterol, and asparaginase activity levels. Results In total, 89 patients were enrolled from two pediatric oncology centers. Triglyceride, cholesterol and ammonia levels increased rapidly in children with PEGasparaginase and remained temporary elevated, but normalized after the finishing the last asparaginase dose. Hypertriglyceridemia and hypercholesterolemia (grade 3/4) were found in 47% and in 25%, respectively, of the patients treated with PEGasparaginase. Studying the correlations between PEGasparaginase activity levels and triglyceride levels showed the strongest correlation at week 5 (Rs = 0.36, p=0.005). Children >= 10 years had higher triglyceride levels as compared to younger patients (< 10 years) adjusted for asparaginase preparations: median levels of 4.9 mmol/L versus 1.6 mmol/L (p<0.001). In patients receiving Erwinia asparaginase, triglyceride levels increased in the first weeks as well, but no hypertriglyceridemia and hypercholesterolemia (grade 3/4) were found. Hyperammonemia (grade 3/4) was only found in Erwinia asparaginase treated patients (9%). No associations were found between pancreatitis and hypertriglyceridemia nor between ammonia and central neurotoxicity. Thrombosis occurred in 4.5%, pancreatitis in 7% and central neurotoxicity in 9% of the patients using each of both asparaginase agents; these toxicities were not related to asparaginase activity levels nor to triglyceride levels. Conclusions Severe dyslipidemia occurred frequently, but was temporary and was not associated with relevant clinical events and therefore should not be considered a reason for asparaginase treatment modifications. We show that high asparaginase activity levels are associated with high triglyceride and high cholesterol levels. However, pancreatitis, thrombosis and central neurotoxicity appear unrelated to asparaginase activity levels. Also, no associations were found between pancreatitis and hypertriglyceridemia and between ammonia level and central neurotoxicity. Table 1 Toxicity table, p-values are given for comparisons of grade 3/4 toxicities between both asparaginase agents, ns; not significant. PEGasparaginase (n=67) Erwinia asparaginase (n=22) p-value Grade 1/2 Grade 3/4 Grade 1/2 Grade 3/4 n % n % n % n % Pancreatitis 0 0 4 6 1 5 2 9 ns Hypertriglyceridemia 15 22 31 47 7 32 0 0 p<0.001 Hypercholesterolemia 6 9 17 25 8 37 0 0 p=0.01 Hyperammonemia 34 51 0 0 9 41 2 9 ns Thrombosis 0 0 2 3 0 0 2 9 ns Central neurotoxicity 0 0 7 10 0 0 1 5 ns Disclosures Tong: EUSA Pharma: Research Funding.

Download Full-text

A prospective study on drug monitoring of PEGasparaginase and Erwinia asparaginase and asparaginase antibodies in pediatric acute lymphoblastic leukemia

Blood ◽

10.1182/blood-2013-10-534347 ◽

2014 ◽

Vol 123 (13) ◽

pp. 2026-2033 ◽

Cited By ~ 95

Author(s):

Wing H. Tong ◽

Rob Pieters ◽

Gertjan J. L. Kaspers ◽

D. Maroeska W. M. te Loo ◽

Marc B. Bierings ◽

...

Keyword(s):

Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia ◽

Prospective Study ◽

Lymphoblastic Leukemia ◽

Activity Levels ◽

Pediatric Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia ◽

E Coli ◽

Key Points ◽

Asparaginase Activity ◽

Erwinia Asparaginase ◽

A Prospective Study

Key Points Use of native E coli asparaginase in induction leads to high hypersensitivity rates to PEGasparaginase in intensification. Switching to Erwinia asparaginase leads to effective asparaginase activity levels in most patients who experienced an allergy to PEGasparaginase.

Download Full-text

Administration of Erwinia Asparaginase (Erwinase®) Following Allergy to PEG-Asparaginase In Children and Young Adults with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia Treated on AALL07P2 Achieves Therapeutic Nadir Serum Asparaginase Activity: A Report From the Children's Oncology Group (COG)

Blood ◽

10.1182/blood.v116.21.2134.2134 ◽

2010 ◽

Vol 116 (21) ◽

pp. 2134-2134

Author(s):

Wanda Salzer ◽

Barbara Asselin ◽

Jeffrey Supko ◽

Meenakshi Devidas ◽

Nicole Kaiser ◽

...

Keyword(s):

United States ◽

Young Adults ◽

Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia ◽

Lymphoblastic Leukemia ◽

The United States ◽

E Coli ◽

Clinical Allergy ◽

Asparaginase Activity ◽

Erwinia Asparaginase ◽

Children And Young Adults

Abstract Abstract 2134 Introduction: L-asparaginase is a vital component of multi-agent chemotherapy for children and young adults with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). In the United States, there are 2 asparaginase preparations approved by the Food and Drug Administration, native E. coli (Elspar®) and PEG-asparaginase (Oncaspar®). PEG-asparaginase is the most commonly utilized asparaginase product due to its longer half-life and decreased immunogenicity. However, the incidence of clinical allergy to PEG-asparaginase approaches 20%, with repeated administration. Due to cross reactivity with native E. coli asparaginase, there is no FDA-approved preparation available for patients who develop clinical allergy to PEG-asparaginase. A third preparation, Erwinia asparaginase (Erwinase®), derived from Erwinia chrysanthemi, is not commercially available in the United States. The optimal dosing of Erwinase® necessary to obtain nadir asparaginase activity > 0.1 IU/mL similar to that obtained after conventional dosing of PEG-asparaginase is unknown. Patients and Methods: We hypothesized that substitution of Erwinase® 25,000 IU/m2 × 6 doses intramuscularly (IM) on a Monday/Wednesday/Friday schedule in children and young adults with ALL would provide a 48 hour nadir serum asparaginase activity ≥ 0.1 IU/mL, and effectively deplete plasma asparagine, a surrogate marker of asparaginase activity. Eligible patients on COG study AALL07P2 were >1 to <30 years of age, concurrently enrolled on a frontline COG ALL treatment study, and had documented ≥ grade 2 allergy (NCI Common Terminology Criteria 3.0) to PEG-asparaginase. Results: A total of 55 eligible/evaluable patients were enrolled from February 2008 to April 2010. Blood samples were obtained at scheduled time points during Erwinase® therapy and assayed for serum asparaginase activity and asparagine concentration in plasma. Nadir serum asparaginase activity ≥ 0.1 IU/mL was achieved in 49/53 patients (92.5%) at 48 hours after dosing and in 46/52 patients (88.5%) at 72 hours after dosing. Plasma asparagine was significantly depleted (<1.0 μM) in all 49 patients for whom samples were satisfactorily obtained. Grade 2–3 allergic reaction and grade 1–2 hyperglycemia related to Erwinase® were reported in 5 and 3 patients, respectively. There were no reports of hemorrhage, thrombosis, pancreatitis, or death. Conclusion: Erwinase® as administered using the AALL07P2 regimen was well tolerated and achieved nadir serum asparaginase activity at both 48 and 72 hours after dosing that was similar to that achieved with PEG-asparaginase. We conclude that following allergy to PEG-asparaginase, Erwinase® 25,000 IU/m2 × 6 doses IM on a Monday/Wednesday/Friday schedule can be substituted for a single dose of PEG-asparaginase. Disclosures: Supko: EUSA Pharma: Research Funding. Plourde: EUSA Pharma: Employment. Winick: EUSA Pharma: EUSA Advisory Board.

Download Full-text

A Prospective Study On Drug Monitoring Of Pegasparaginase and Erwinia Asparaginase and Asparaginase Antibodies In Pediatric Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia

Blood ◽

10.1182/blood.v122.21.2634.2634 ◽

2013 ◽

Vol 122 (21) ◽

pp. 2634-2634 ◽

Cited By ~ 2

Author(s):

Wing H. Tong ◽

Rob Pieters ◽

Gertjan Kaspers ◽

Maroeska D.W.M. te Loo ◽

Marc Bierings ◽

...

Keyword(s):

Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia ◽

Drug Monitoring ◽

Conflicts Of Interest ◽

Lymphoblastic Leukemia ◽

Activity Level ◽

Therapeutic Drug ◽

Activity Levels ◽

Asparaginase Activity ◽

Erwinia Asparaginase ◽

Pre Treatment

Abstract Purpose A prospective drug monitoring study was performed to analyse the efficacy of very prolonged use of PEGasparaginase and Erwiniaasparaginase by assessing asparaginase activity, asparagine, glutamine levels and asparaginase antibodies in children with newly diagnosed acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). Patients and Methods Children received 15 PEGasparaginase infusions (2,500 IU/m2 every other week) according to the Dutch Childhood Oncology Group (DCOG)-ALL-10 medium risk intensification protocol after having received native E.coli asparaginase (5,000 IU/m2 every 3 days, 8 doses in total) in the induction course. In case of an allergy to or silent inactivation of PEGasparaginase, Erwinia asparaginase (20,000 IU/m22x-3x per week) was given. All asparaginase preparations were administered intravenously in one hour. Serum asparaginase activity, asparagine, glutamine levels and asparaginase antibodies were measured. Results 89 patients were enrolled in two centers to monitor the PEGasparaginase courses. 62/89 (70%) patients without clinical allergy to and without silent inactivation of PEGasparaginase had serum mean trough activity levels of 899 U/L which were much higher than requested. 20/89 (22%) of the patients showed an allergy and 7/89 (8%) silent inactivation in intensification. All 20 allergic patients (grade 1-4 Common Terminology Criteria Adverse Events) showed PEGasparaginase activity levels of zero. This was not due to the fact that the PEGasparaginase infusion was stopped, as 18 patients showed their allergic reactions at the second dose whereas the serum asparaginase activity level after the first full dose already appeared to be zero in all 18 cases. Moreover, in 4 patients with grade 1 allergy, the second full PEGasparaginase dose was given with pre-treatment of clemastine and hydrocortisone, also resulting in unmeasurable serum activity levels of PEGasparaginase. 59 children from 7 centers with allergy to or silent inactivation of PEGasparaginase who were switched to Erwinia asparaginase were enrolled to monitor the Erwiniaasparaginase courses. Only 2/59 (3%) of the patients developed an allergy to Erwinia asparaginase. No patients with silent inactivation of Erwinia asparaginase were seen. Of the non-allergic Erwinia asparaginase patients, 55/57 (96%) had at least one serum Erwinia asparaginase trough activity level ≥ 100 U/L and 57/57 (100%) ≥ 50 U/L. In 65% and 85% of all samples had serum trough activity levels ≥ 100 U/L and ≥ 50 U/L, respectively. In 33% of patients, the administration frequency could be reduced from 3 times to 2 times per week based upon serum Erwinia asparaginase activity levels ≥ 100 U/L at 72 hours. Serum asparagine level was strongly depleted, but not always completely depleted in Erwinia asparaginase treated patients in contrast to PEGasparaginase. Serum glutamine level was slightly lowered by Erwiniaasparaginase, but no glutamine depletion was observed with both compounds. The presence of serum asparaginase antibodies is related to allergy to and silent inactivation of asparaginase, but predicting asparaginase allergy or silent inactivation is clinically not applicable because of the low specificity, 64% (95%-CI: 43%-82%). Conclusion The use of native E.coli asparaginase in induction leads to 22% allergy and 8% silent inactivation rates of PEGasparaginase in intensification. Therefore, PEGasparaginase should be used upfront already in the induction course instead of native E.coli asparaginase. The dose of PEGasparaginase of 2,500 IU/m2 can be lowered. Switching to Erwinia asparaginase in case of allergy to or silent inactivation of PEGasparaginase leads to effective asparaginase activity levels in the majority of patients. Measuring serum asparaginase activity levels to monitor efficacy of asparaginase is preferred over serum asparagine levels and serum asparaginase antibodies. Therapeutic drug monitoring has now been implemented to individualize PEGasparaginase and Erwinia asparaginase dose and to detect silent inactivation in the current DCOG-ALL-11 protocol. Disclosures: No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.

Download Full-text

Efficacy and toxicity of pegaspargase and calaspargase pegol in childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia/lymphoma: Results of DFCI 11-001.

Journal of Clinical Oncology ◽

10.1200/jco.2019.37.15_suppl.10006 ◽

2019 ◽

Vol 37 (15_suppl) ◽

pp. 10006-10006 ◽

Cited By ~ 3

Author(s):

Lynda M. Vrooman ◽

Traci M. Blonquist ◽

Jeffrey G. Supko ◽

Sarah K. Hunt ◽

Jane E. O'Brien ◽

...

Keyword(s):

Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia ◽

Residual Disease ◽

Lymphoblastic Leukemia ◽

Induction Dose ◽

Post Induction ◽

Fda Approval ◽

Dosing Strategies ◽

Asparaginase Activity ◽

To Receive

10006 Background: DFCI ALL Consortium Protocol 11-001 assessed the efficacy and toxicity of Calaspargase pegol (SC-PEG), a novel pegylated asparaginase (ASP) formulation with longer half-life, compared with standard pegaspargase (SS-PEG). Methods: Patients (pts) aged 1-21 years with newly diagnosed acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) or lymphoblastic lymphoma (LL) were eligible. At study entry, pts were randomly assigned to receive either intravenous SS-PEG or SC-PEG, 2500 IU/m2/dose. Pts received 1 dose during the first treatment month. Beginning week 7, SS-PEG was administered every 2 weeks for 15 doses, SC-PEG every 3 weeks for 10 doses (30 weeks). Serum asparaginase activity (SAA) (considered therapeutic at ≥ 0.1 IU/mL) was assessed 4, 11, 18, and 25 days after the induction dose and before each post-induction dose. End-induction minimal residual disease (MRD) was assessed in ALL pts by IGH/TCR PCR. Results: Between 2012-2015, 239 eligible pts enrolled (230 ALL, 9 LL); 120 assigned to SS-PEG, 119 to SC-PEG. After dose 1, SAA remained ≥ 0.1 IU/mL in ≥ 95% of pts on both arms through day 18. Median SAA was higher (0.319 IU/mL vs 0.056 IU/mL) and more pts had therapeutic SAA (88% vs 17%, p˂0.001) with SC-PEG vs SS-PEG 25 days after dose 1. Post-induction, median nadir SAA (NSAA) were similar ( > 1.0 IU/mL) for both arms. There was no difference in rates of ASP-allergy, pancreatitis, thrombosis, hyperbilirubinemia, osteonecrosis, or infection. Of 230 evaluable pts, 99% of SS-PEG and 95% of SC-PEG pts achieved complete remission (p = 0.12). For B ALL pts, there was no difference in frequency of high end-induction MRD (10.3% SS-PEG, 9.5% SC-PEG, p = 1.0). With 4-year median follow-up, 4-year event-free survival (EFS) (90% confidence interval) for SS-PEG was 90.2% (84.3, 93.9), 87.7% (81.5, 91.9) for SC-PEG (p = 0.78); overall survival (OS) was 95.6% (91.0, 97.9) for SS-PEG, 94.8% (90.0, 97.3) for SC-PEG (p = 0.74). Conclusions: Every 3-week SC-PEG had similar EFS, OS, safety profile, and NSAA compared with every 2-week SS-PEG. The high NSAA observed for both preparations suggest dosing strategies can be further optimized. These data informed FDA approval of SC-PEG for pediatric pts. Clinical trial information: NCT01574274.

Download Full-text