Multiple Complications Secondary to L-asparaginase In a Child with Philadelphia-Chromosome-Positive Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia: Case Report with Review of Literature

Even though L-asparaginase remains an essential drug for the treatment of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), its use is associated with several unique toxicities. In this care report, we discuss a young boy with ALL who developed multiple complications simultaneously, including pancreatitis, gastrointestinal perforation, and left ventricular thrombus secondary to L-asparaginase during induction chemotherapy. Patient received immediate surgical intervention for the perforation and was commenced on anticoagulation therapy for the thrombus but eventually expired. This report highlights the importance of being aware of toxicities secondary to the use of L-asparaginase. Multiple complications secondary to L-asparaginase have been rarely reported previously and can be fatal.

Automated summary

This case report discusses a young boy with childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) who experienced multiple complications, including pancreatitis, gastrointestinal perforation, and left ventricular thrombus, simultaneously due to L-asparaginase during induction chemotherapy. Despite immediate surgical intervention and anticoagulation therapy, the patient eventually died. This report highlights the importance of being aware of toxicities associated with the use of L-asparaginase.