Toxicities in Adults with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) Treated with Regimens Using Pegasparaginase.

Blood ◽  
2008 ◽  
Vol 112 (11) ◽  
pp. 1924-1924 ◽  
Author(s):  
Michael Rytting ◽  
Marc Earl ◽  
Dan Douer ◽  
Brenda Muriera ◽  
Anjali Advani ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia ◽  
Lymphoblastic Leukemia ◽  
Cleveland Clinic ◽  
Adult Patients ◽  
Close Monitoring ◽  
Multiple Doses ◽  
Elevated Liver Enzymes ◽  
Grade 3 ◽  
Long Acting ◽  
Age Range

Abstract Background: The current therapeutic strategy of applying pediatric-based regimens for acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) to adults with ALL exposes these patients to multiple doses of asparaginase (ASP). Exposure to long-acting or pegylated ASP is particularly prominent due to dosing convenience, since pegylated ASP can be administered intravenously and requires fewer doses than shorter-acting forms. Previously, adult patients were much less likely to be treated with ASP-containing regimens due to reports from the 1970s of increased toxicity from ASP in adults compared with children. We report on the toxicities encountered in 3 protocols that include multiple doses of pegylated ASP as part of therapy for ALL in adult patients. Methods: Thus far, the 3 protocols have enrolled 92 patients between the ages of 14 and 71 years. The pegylated ASP dose ranges from 2000–2500 IU/m2. Approximately 330 doses of pegylated ASP have been given. Results: Grade 3–4 hepatic toxicity is the most prominent; grade 3–4 transaminase elevation occurred in 47 (51%) patients, and grade 3–4 hyperbilirubinemia was seen in 22 (24%) patients (Table). Hyperglycemia was grade 3–4 toxicity in 30 (33%) patients. Grade 3–4 allergic reactions to pegylated ASP occurred in 5 (5%) patients. Twelve (13%) patients developed thromboses. Of note, 3 (3%) patients have had leukoencephalopathy on magnetic resonance imaging scans with reversible stroke-like symptoms. The majority of hepatic toxicities resolve spontaneously, allowing patients to continue chemotherapy. All of the patients with stroke-like symptoms have fully recovered. Conclusions: Considerable hepatotoxicity and hyperglycemia occur in adult ALL patients treated with polychemotherapy that includes long-acting ASP. Other toxicities occur with a frequency similar to that seen in pediatric patients treated with a long-acting ASP. This toxicity profile warrants close monitoring and continued data collection from clinical trials that use pegylated ASP in adults with ALL. USC Cleveland Clinic M.D. Anderson Total *No. of patients with grade 3–4 toxicities. Median age (years) 33 46 20 33 Age range (years) 18–57 20–71 14–34 14–71 No. doses/patients 127/39 56/25 147/28 330/92 Toxicity* Elevated liver enzymes 23 7 17 47 Hyperbilirubinemia 7 6 9 22 Hyperglycemia 12 5 13 30 Clinical pancreatitis 5 N/A 3 8 Fatigue 3 1 7 11 Thrombosis 3 (SVC only) 2 7 12 Hypofibrinogenemia N/A 8 N/A 8 Elevated PT / INR N/A 1 N/A 1 Bleeding 0 N/A 0 0 Nausea / vomiting 1 4 2 7 Allergy / hypersensitivity 0 2 3 5 Neuropathy 1 1 N/A 2 CNS stroke-like syndrome 0 0 3 3

Toxicities of Intravenous (IV) Pegasparaginase (ONCASPAR®) in Adults with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL).

Blood ◽  
2007 ◽  
Vol 110 (11) ◽  
pp. 2811-2811 ◽  
Author(s):  
Anjali Advani ◽  
Marc Earl ◽  
Dan Douer ◽  
Michael Rytting ◽  
Archie Bleyer
Keyword(s):  
Pediatric Patients ◽  
Liver Enzymes ◽  
Lymphoblastic Leukemia ◽  
Elevated Serum ◽  
Cleveland Clinic ◽  
Adult Patients ◽  
Cancer Center ◽  
Elevated Liver Enzymes ◽  
Grade 3 ◽  
Chemotherapy Agents

Abstract Background: With the multiple reports of asparaginase-containing regimens used in pediatric ALL therapy achieving a greater survival rate that non-asparaginase treatment regimens used in adult patients, asparaginase therapy is now being increasingly applied in chemotherapy regimens for adults with ALL. One reason for this resurgence is the availability of a long-acting form of the enzyme, pegylated asparaginase, and more recently, flexibility in administration of pegasparaginase via either intramuscular or intravenous routes (Oncaspar®). Given an initial impression in the 1970s that adults were more vulnerable to the toxicities of asparaginase than were children, we assessed the initial experience of intravenous asparaginase in adults with ALL. Methods: The intial experience with pegylated asparaginase at the University of Southern California (USC), Cleveland Clinic, and University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center were compiled and compared between institutions and with published results in pediatric patients. Results (Table): In 76 adult patients administered 192 doses of pegasparaginase in combination with other chemotherapy agents for ALL, hepatotoxicity was most common, with grade 3–4 elevation of serum liver enzymes and grade 3–4 hyperbilirubinemia in 36% and 14% of the patients, respectively. Hyperglycemia and chemical pancreatitis were next most common, having occurred at grade 3–4 levels in 25% and 5% of patients, respectively. Grade 3–4 toxicities in the 5–10% range were thrombosis, hypofibrinogenemia, nausea/vomiting, and fatigue. Grade 3–4 allergy/hypersensitivity, neuropathy, and CNS ischemia were reported in 1–5% of patients. Conclusions: Intravenous pegasparaginase is hepatotoxic in ∼1/3 of adult patients and has a variety of other, non-hepatic toxicities in <10% of patients, of which the most common are pancreatitis, thrombosis, nausea/vomiting and fatigue. Intravenous pegasparaginase has a toxicity profile, in combination with other chemotherapy agents used in ALL therapy, in adult patients that similar to that in pediatric patients, and warrants increased use in adult patients with ALL. Grade 3–4 Toxicities of IV Pegasparaginase in Adults USC Cleveland Clinic MD Anderson Total Median Age (Years) 28 37 20 33 Age Range (Years) 17–57 20–68 14–28 17–68 No. Doses / Patients 81 / 45 41 / 18 70 / 13 192 / 76 % Patients with Grade 3–4 Toxicity Elevated liver enzymes 31% 28% 62% 36% Hyperbilirubinemia 13% 22% 15% 14% Hyperglycemia 27% 17% 31% 25% Elevated serum amylase 0% 0%R 0% 5% Fatigue 7% 0% 0% 7% Thrombosis 4% 6% 6% 0% Hypofibrinogenemia 0% 28% 28% 0% Elevated PT/INR 0% 0% 0% 7% Bleeding 0% 0% 0% 8% Nausea/vomiting 2% 17% 17% 1% Allergy/hypersensitivity 0% 0% 0% 1% Neuropathy 2% 0% 0% 4% CNS ischemia 0% 0% 15% 3%

scholarly journals Thromboembolism Prophylaxis in Adult Patients with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia Treated in the GRAALL-2005 Study

Blood ◽  
2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Corentin Orvain ◽  
Marie Balsat ◽  
Emmanuelle Tavernier ◽  
Jean-Pierre Marolleau ◽  
Thomas Pabst ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia ◽  
Lymphoblastic Leukemia ◽  
Fresh Frozen Plasma ◽  
Adult Patients ◽  
Bleeding Complications ◽  
Thromboembolism Prophylaxis ◽  
Prophylactic Measures ◽  
Increased Risk ◽  
Fresh Frozen ◽  
Grade 3

Patients undergoing treatment for acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) are at risk for thrombosis, in part due to the use of L-asparaginase (L-ASP). Antithrombin (AT) replacement has been suggested to prevent VTE and thus might increase exposure to ASP. We report herein the results of the prophylactic replacement strategy in the pediatric-inspired prospective GRAALL-2005 study. Between 2006 and 2014, 784 adult patients with newly diagnosed Philadelphia-negative ALL were included. The incidence rate of VTE was 16% with 69% of them occurring during induction therapy. Most patients received AT supplementation (87%). After excluding patients who did not receive L-ASP or developed thrombosis before L-ASP, AT supplementation did not have a significant impact on VTE (8% versus 14%, OR: 0.6, p=0.1). Fibrinogen concentrates administration was associated with an increased risk of VTE (17% versus 9%, OR 2.2, p=0.02) whereas transfusion of fresh-frozen plasma had no effect. Heparin prophylaxis was associated with an increased risk of VTE (13% versus 7%, OR 1.9, p=0.04). Prophylactic measures were not associated with an increased risk of grade 3-4 bleeding complications. The rate of VTE recurrence after L-ASP reintroduction was 3% (1/34). In ALL patients receiving L-ASP therapy, the use of fibrinogen concentrates may increase the risk of thrombosis and should be restricted to rare patients with hypofibrinogenemia-induced hemorrhage. Patients developed VTE despite extensive AT supplementation which advocates for additional prophylactic measures. While this large descriptive study was not powered to demonstrate the efficacy of these prophylactic measures, it provides important insight to guide future trial design. NCT00327678.

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 ◽  
2013 ◽  
Vol 122 (21) ◽  
pp. 2671-2671 ◽  
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.

A Dose Intensified Pediatric-Like Regimen Using Multiple Doses of Intravenous Pegylated Asparaginase in Adults with Newly Diagnosed Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia.

Blood ◽  
2007 ◽  
Vol 110 (11) ◽  
pp. 2823-2823 ◽  
Author(s):  
Dan Douer ◽  
Kristy Watkins ◽  
Lisa Mark ◽  
Ann Mohrbacher ◽  
Allen S. Yang ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Phase I ◽  
Lymphoblastic Leukemia ◽  
Induction Phase ◽  
Newly Diagnosed ◽  
Neutropenic Sepsis ◽  
Multiple Doses ◽  
Elevated Liver Enzymes ◽  
Pediatric All ◽  
Remission Phase ◽  
Grade 3

Abstract Introduction: Recent studies have suggested that more intensive pediatric regimens may improve the outcome of adults with ALL. In particular, higher dose of asparaginase (ASP) are often used in pediatric ALL protocols than in adults. Large randomized pediatric ALL trials have shown that multiple doses of E.Coli ASP given throughout the post remission phase are associated with improved outcome. PEG-asparaginase (PEG-ASP) is a modified formulation of E.coli ASP, with lower risk of hypersensitivity reactions and prolonged half life. Data on PEG-ASP in adults is limited. In a previous study we showed in adult ALL patients that a single IV dose of PEG-ASP given during induction produces a long duration of asparagine depletion (up to 3-4 weeks) with similar toxicity to equivalent multiple doses of E.coli ASP (Douer et al Blood19:2744, 2007). We currently report in adults the use of multiple doses of PEG-ASP given throughout the treatment course of patients with newly diagnosed previously untreated ALL as part of an intensive pediatric regimen. Methods: The therapeutic backbone of this protocol is based on an augmented BFM pediatric ALL protocol consisting of 8 cycles of multi-agent chemotherapy, followed by maintenance. PEG-ASP (2000 U/m2/dose) is given IV once on day 15 of the following cycles (total 6 doses): induction phase I (cycle 1), induction phase II (cycle 2), two cycles of consolidation (cycles 3 and 6), and two cycles of delayed re-induction (cycles 5 and 8). Results: 34 patients aged 19–57 (median 33) years with newly diagnosed ALL (precursor B cell - 29, T cell-5, Ph+ 7) were studied. Median WBC at diagnosis was 21,000/cumm (range 1,900–512,000). Thirty three patients (97%) achieved a CR after induction phase I. Eight (26%) patients discontinued the protocol because of undergoing allogeneic stem-cell transplantation. Other reasons for not completing all PEG-ASP doses are: relapse -3 pts., death in CR from neutropenic sepsis-2 pts., pancreatitis -4 pts. To date six patients received all 6 doses of PEG-ASP havingcompleted all consolidation cycles. The other patients are still being treated. So far the number of PEG-ASP doses given is: 6-6pts, 5-1 pt., 4-3 pts., 3-5 pts., 2-7 pts., 1-12 pts. Total number of doses was 94. Grade 3/4 toxicities during cycles after PEG-ASP was given were: elevated liver enzymes - 18/34 (53%) pts (25 doses), hyperbilrubinema - 7/34 (21%) pts (7 doses), hyperglycemia - 11/34 (32%) pts (13 doses), pancreatitis 4/34 (12%) pts, fatigue 3/34 (9%) pts, hypertriglyceridemia-2/34 (6%) pts, neuropathy, catheter thrombosis-1/34 pt each; no allergic reactions. All toxicities were reversible. In 20 patients anti-asparaginase antibodies were assayed and none were found. With a median follow up of 15 months event free survival at 3 yrs is 61%. Conclusion: Administration of multiple doses of PEG-ASP IV to adults (ages19–57 years) in an intensified BFM-based pediatric-like strategy is feasible and provides long term asparagine depletion. Such approach may benefit adults with ALL.

Outcome of adult patients with T-lymphoblastic lymphoma treated according to protocols for acute lymphoblastic leukemia

Blood ◽  
2002 ◽  
Vol 99 (12) ◽  
pp. 4379-4385 ◽  
Author(s):  
Dieter Hoelzer ◽  
Nicola Gökbuget ◽  
Werner Digel ◽  
Thomas Faak ◽  
Michael Kneba ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia ◽  
Lymphoblastic Leukemia ◽  
Disease Free Survival ◽  
Stage Iv ◽  
Lymphoblastic Lymphoma ◽  
Adult Patients ◽  
Cure Rate ◽  
Mediastinal Irradiation ◽  
T Lymphoblastic Lymphoma ◽  
Age Range

We treated 45 adult patients with T-lymphoblastic lymphoma (T-LBL) (age range 15-61 years) with 2 protocols designed for adult acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). An encouraging cure rate of 90% was recently reported for T-LBL in children treated with a similar approach. In our study, an 8-drug standard induction was administered over 8 weeks including prophylactic cranial (24 Gy) and mediastinal irradiation (24 Gy) followed by consolidation and reinduction therapy. At diagnosis, 91% of the 45 patients showed a mediastinal tumor and 40% had pleural/pericardial effusions; 73% of the patients had stage III/IV disease. Overall, 42 patients (93%) achieved a complete remission (CR), 2 patients (4%) achieved a partial remission, and 1 patient (2%) died during induction. In patients with stage I-III disease (n = 18) the CR rate was 100% compared with 89% in stage IV (n = 27). There were 15 patients who relapsed (36%) within 12 months. The majority of relapses (47%) occurred in the mediastinum (n = 7) despite mediastinal irradiation with 24 Gy in 6 out of 7 patients. The estimates for overall survival, continuous CR, and disease-free survival at 7 years are 51%, 65%, and 62%, respectively. Stage, age, lactate dehydrogenase, and all other parameters had no influence on achievement of CR or outcome. This study demonstrates in a large cohort of patients with adult T-LBL that a high CR rate and a favorable outcome can be achieved with an ALL-type regimen. Mediastinal recurrence was the major obstacle and further improvement by intensification of chemotherapy, increased dose of mediastinal irradiation (36 Gy), and extended indications for stem cell transplantation seem to be required.

Incidence of asparaginase-related hepatotoxicity, pancreatitis, and thrombotic events in adults with acute lymphoblastic leukemia treated with a pediatric-inspired regimen

2017 ◽  
Vol 24 (4) ◽  
pp. 299-308 ◽  
Author(s):  
Trevor N Christ ◽  
Wendy Stock ◽  
Randall W Knoebel
Keyword(s):  
Logistic Regression ◽  
Risk Factor ◽  
Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia ◽  
Lymphoblastic Leukemia ◽  
Critical Component ◽  
Individual Dose ◽  
Related Factors ◽  
Grade 3 ◽  
Long Acting ◽  
All Treatment

Asparaginase is a critical component of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) treatment in children; however, its use in adults is often avoided as a result of toxicities including hepatotoxicity, thrombosis, and pancreatitis which have been reported more commonly in adults than in children. In this retrospective analysis, short-acting L-asparaginase (L-ASP) and long-acting polyethylene glycol (PEG)-asparaginase (PEG-ASP) were compared for grade 3–4 toxicities and characterized by patient and drug-related factors to identify strategies for toxicity avoidance in adults with ALL. Asparaginase was administered during sequential courses of chemotherapy using a pediatric-inspired treatment regimen. Forty-eight patients who received PEG-ASP and nine patients who received L-ASP were identified. The rates of toxicity were as follows for the PEG-ASP and L-ASP groups, respectively: hepatotoxicity (60% vs. 33%, P = 0.275), pancreatitis (17% vs. 22%, P = 0.650), thrombosis (19.0% vs. 0%, P = 0.328), or any grade 3–4 toxicity (71% vs. 44%, P = 0.143). Toxicity did not correlate with dose, either by individual dose based on flat or BSA-based measures. Logistic regression identified obesity as a risk factor for heptatotoxicity (OR = 8.44, 95% CI: 1.395–51.117). Hypofibrinogenemia was identified as a pharmacodynamic marker for predicting hepatotoxicity. In conclusion, grade 3–4 toxicity was not statistically different between adult ALL patients receiving PEG-ASP and L-ASP, but toxicity was strongly associated with obesity and hypofibrinogenemia, not dose.

scholarly journals How I Treat the Toxicities of Pegasparaginase in Adults with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia

Blood ◽  
2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Ibrahim Aldoss ◽  
Dan Douer
Keyword(s):  
Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia ◽  
Adverse Effects ◽  
Lymphoblastic Leukemia ◽  
Real Life ◽  
E Coli ◽  
Chemotherapy Agent ◽  
Multiple Doses ◽  
The Us ◽  
Long Acting ◽  
Pegylated Form

Administering asparaginase has always been problematic in adults since most general oncologists who treat adults are not familiar with its usage and toxicity. The toxicity profile of the drug is unique and not observed with any other chemotherapy agent. Furthermore, asparaginase is almost exclusively used in acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) which is a very rare cancer in adults. Currently, the long acting pegylated form (pegasparaginase) is the only E. coli-derived asparaginase available in the US. The utilization of pediatric regimens is likely to lead to more adult patients receiving multiple doses of pegasparaginase. However, oncologists who treat adults may still be reluctant to use pegasparaginase or may unnecessarily discontinue its administration because of certain adverse effects. As a result, the clinical benefit of multiple doses of pegasparaginase will be missed. Despite the fact that pegasparaginase is associated with unique toxicities, the majority are non-fatal, manageable and reversible. Here, we describe real life cases of adults with ALL who were treated with pediatric-inspired regimens incorporating pegasparaginase to illustrate the management of several pegasparaginase-associated adverse effects and guide if and how to continue the drug.

scholarly journals Pegasperagase Toxicity in Adult Patients with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia: A Single Center Experience Comparing Patients Older and Younger Than 35 Years of Age

Blood ◽  
2019 ◽  
Vol 134 (Supplement_1) ◽  
pp. 5067-5067
Author(s):  
Jun H Choi ◽  
Jacques Azzi ◽  
Tsivia Hochman ◽  
Mary Lynn R. Nierodzik ◽  
Shella Saint Fleur-Lominy ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia ◽  
Adverse Events ◽  
Conflicts Of Interest ◽  
Lymphoblastic Leukemia ◽  
Adult Population ◽  
Prospective Trial ◽  
Philadelphia Chromosome ◽  
Treatment Protocol ◽  
Adult Patients ◽  
Grade 3

Background: The treatment paradigm of adult patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is primarily derived from successful pediatric chemotherapy regimens. Pegasparagase (PEG) is a key component of pediatric therapy and is the backbone of cytotoxic ALL regimens. However, among the adult population the use of PEG has been limited by the difficulty in tolerating prolonged asparagine depletion. Hepatotoxicity is among the most common adverse events reported with the use of PEG, with grade 3/4 hepatotoxicity seen in 20% of young adults compared to 40-60% of older adults. Incorporating PEG into the treatment of ALL patients under 40 remains an accepted practice despite some studies that report up to 75% of patients have grade 3/4 adverse events as a result of asparagine depletion. In a study of 85 patients with ALL, 3-year overall survival (OS) was significantly different between patients older and younger than 35 (52% vs 83% p = 0.003). Whether this difference is due to PEG toxicity or to other factors remains to be determined. At NYU hospitals, PEG-containing protocols are frequently deployed to treat adult ALL. In our study, we sought to look at the difference in PEG toxicity and response rate (RR) in patients older and younger than 35 and whether these toxicities contributed to a delay in subsequent treatments and to a worse outcome. Methods: We conducted a retrospective chart review of patients older than 18 diagnosed with ALL or lymphoblastic lymphoma, who received at least 1 dose of PEG at our institution between 2014 and 2018. All patients received PEG as part of their first line treatment protocol. Our main objective was to compare the tolerability and toxicity profile of intravenous PEG in patients ≥35 years old versus <35. Our secondary objective was to investigate its effects on chemotherapy delay, RR, and relapse rate. Results: Out of a total of 50 patients, 23 were age ≥ 35 (46%). Mean age was 34.4 (Range: 18.9-63.1). The 2 groups shared similar distributions in gender, race, and Philadelphia chromosome (Ph) subtypes (Table 1). The older group received significantly less PEG, 5114.8 vs. 25353.7 units (p=0.0007) and 1.65 vs. 3.59 doses (p<0.0001) compared to the younger group. Grade 1-4 toxicity profiles were similar as both groups had high hepatotoxicity rates: transaminitis 100% vs. 89% (p=0.079) and hyperbilirubinemia 78% vs. 78% (p=0.104) in the older vs younger group, respectively. Grade 3-4 hepatotoxicity was significantly more pronounced in patients ≥35 years old (transaminitis 65% vs. 33% [p=0.0245], hyperbilirubinemia 48 vs. 15% [p=0.0111]). Coagulopathy rates evaluated with hypofibrinogenemia and thrombosis were similar between the older and the younger groups at 52% vs. 44% [p=0.104] and 17% vs. 7%, [p=0.855], respectively, and the frequency of pancreatitis and anaphylaxis were 4% vs. 18.5% (p=0.422) and 0% vs. 14.8% (p=0.115), respectively. In the older group, only 13% completed the planned PEG dosages compared to 59% in the younger group (p=0.0008), and delay in other chemotherapy by more than 30 days due to PEG hepatotoxicity occurred in 55% of older patients compared to 22% of younger patients (p=0.02). MRD negativity rate after induction was similar in the older and younger group (50% vs. 60% [p=0.491], respectively), but the 12-month relapse free survival was significantly lower in the older group (41%, [95% CI: 55.7%-89%] vs. 77%, [95% CI: 21%-61%], p=0.022) (Figure 1). Conclusions: Patients aged ≥ 35 received significantly less PEG during their treatments but were more likely to develop severe grade 3-4 hepatotoxicity compared to their younger counterparts. The response rates were similar with comparable MRD negativity rates after induction regardless of total amount of PEG administered. However, relapse occurred more frequently in the older group, possibly resulting from more frequent delays in administering other chemotherapy agents due to PEG toxicity. Incorporation of PEG is important in the treatment of ALL but should be used with caution in patients ≥35 years old, and will likely require dose and schedule modifications. A larger prospective trial investigating adequate dosing and scheduling of PEG in this age group is warranted, specifically comparing delays in chemotherapy, relapse, and survival rates in regimens with and without PEG. Disclosures No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.

The ABCs of Immunotherapy for Adult Patients With B-Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia

2017 ◽  
Vol 52 (3) ◽  
pp. 268-276 ◽  
Author(s):  
Troy Z. Horvat ◽  
Amanda N. Seddon ◽  
Adebayo Ogunniyi ◽  
Amber C. King ◽  
Larry W. Buie ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
T Cells ◽  
Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia ◽  
B Cell ◽  
Data Extraction ◽  
Lymphoblastic Leukemia ◽  
Adult Patients ◽  
Efficacy And Safety ◽  
Car T Cells ◽  
Car T ◽  
American Society

Objective: To review the pharmacology, efficacy, and safety of Food and Drug Administration approved and promising immunotherapy agents used in the treatment of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). Data Sources: A literature search was performed of PubMed and MEDLINE databases (1950 to July 2017) and of abstracts from the American Society of Hematology and the American Society of Clinical Oncology. Searches were performed utilizing the following key terms: rituximab, blinatumomab, inotuzumab, ofatumumab, obinutuzumab, Blincyto, Rituxan, Gazyva, Arzerra, CAR T-cell, and chimeric antigen receptor (CAR). Study Selection/Data Extraction: Studies of pharmacology, clinical efficacy, and safety of rituximab, ofatumumab, obinutuzumab, inotuzumab, blinatumomab, and CAR T-cells in the treatment of adult patients with ALL were identified. Data Synthesis: Conventional chemotherapy has been the mainstay in the treatment of ALL, producing cure rates of approximately 90% in pediatrics, but it remains suboptimal in adult patients. As such, more effective consolidative modalities and novel therapies for relapsed/refractory disease are needed for adult patients with ALL. In recent years, anti-CD20 antibodies, blinatumomab, inotuzumab, and CD19-targeted CAR T-cells have drastically changed the treatment landscape of B-cell ALL. Conclusion: Outcomes of patients with relapsed disease are improving thanks to new therapies such as blinatumomab, inotuzumab, and CAR T-cells. Although the efficacy of these therapies is impressive, they are not without toxicity, both physical and financial. The optimal sequencing of these therapies still remains a question.

Myeloablative allogeneic versus autologous stem cell transplantation in adult patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia in first remission: a prospective sibling donor versus no-donor comparison

Blood ◽  
2009 ◽  
Vol 113 (6) ◽  
pp. 1375-1382 ◽  
Author(s):  
Jan J. Cornelissen ◽  
Bronno van der Holt ◽  
Gregor E. G. Verhoef ◽  
Mars B. van 't Veer ◽  
Marinus H. J. van Oers ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Stem Cell ◽  
Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia ◽  
Stem Cell Transplantation ◽  
Cell Transplantation ◽  
Lymphoblastic Leukemia ◽  
Adult Patients ◽  
Donor Group ◽  
No Donor ◽  
Sibling Donor ◽  
Standard Risk

Abstract While commonly accepted in poor-risk acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), the role of allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-SCT) is still disputed in adult patients with standard-risk ALL. We evaluated outcome of patients with ALL in first complete remission (CR1), according to a sibling donor versus no-donor comparison. Eligible patients (433) were entered in 2 consecutive, prospective studies, of whom 288 (67%) were younger than 55 years, in CR1, and eligible to receive consolidation by either an autologous SCT or an allo-SCT. Allo-SCT was performed in 91 of 96 patients with a compatible sibling donor. Cumulative incidences of relapse at 5 years were, respectively, 24 and 55% for patients with a donor versus those without a donor (hazard ratio [HR], 0.37; 0.23-0.60; P < .001). Nonrelapse mortality estimated 16% (± 4) at 5 years after allo-SCT. As a result, disease-free survival (DFS) at 5 years was significantly better in the donor group: 60 versus 42% in the no-donor group (HR: 0.60; 0.41-0.89; P = .01). After risk-group analysis, improved outcome was more pronounced in standard-risk patients with a donor, who experienced an overall survival of 69% at 5 years (P = .05). In conclusion, standard-risk ALL patients with a sibling donor may show favorable survival following SCT, due to both a strong reduction of relapse and a modest nonrelapse mortality. This trial is registered with http://www.trialregister.nl under trial ID NTR228.

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