title: Managing hypersensitivity to asparaginase in pediatrics, adolescents, and young adults.
abstract: Hypersensitivity reactions to chemotherapeutic drugs have been documented for numerous cancer therapies. Clinical hypersensitivity to Escherichia coli asparaginase has been reported to range from 0% to 75%. Throughout the United States, nurses assume frontline responsibility for the assessment of asparaginase-related hypersensitivity reactions. It is essential that nurses educate themselves on the signs and symptoms of asparaginase-related hypersensitivity reactions as well as current supportive care approaches. The purpose of this review is to summarize acute lymphoblastic leukemia and the role of asparaginase and the pathology of allergic reactions. We will also update nurses on the differences in asparaginase preparations including dosing, half-life, rates of hypersensitivity, and routes of administration. A summary of current management and supportive care strategies will be provided as will a discussion of the relationship between allergy, antibodies, and asparaginase activity.
authors: Sigma-Tau Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Gaithersburg, MD, USA. boothse@gmail.com
authors: Sara E
authors: SE
authors: Shinnick
authors: Mary L
authors: ML
authors: Browning
authors: Susannah E
authors: SE
authors: Koontz
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000970:Antineoplastic Agents / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000276:immunology / Q000493:pharmacokinetics / Q000627:therapeutic use; D001215:Asparaginase / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000276:immunology / Q000493:pharmacokinetics / Q000627:therapeutic use; D002648:Child; D004342:Drug Hypersensitivity / Q000451:nursing*; D006207:Half-Life; D006801:Humans; D054198:Precursor Cell Lymphoblastic Leukemia-Lymphoma / Q000188:drug therapy*; D055815:Young Adult
chemical_list: D000970:Antineoplastic Agents; D001215:Asparaginase