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Plasmapheresis in asparaginase-induced hypertriglyceridemia
Elizabeth M Kfoury-Baz1, Rabih A Nassar, Rita F Tanios
1Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine and Internal Medicine, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon.
Transfusion
|April 16, 2008
Summary
Asparaginase therapy for lymphoma can cause high triglyceride levels, leading to pancreatitis. Plasmapheresis effectively treated this severe hypertriglyceridemia in a patient.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Hematology
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Asparaginase is a key chemotherapy drug for acute lymphoblastic leukemia and lymphoblastic lymphoma.
- Asparaginase administration is associated with elevated triglyceride levels.
- Hypertriglyceridemia is a known risk factor for pancreatitis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a case of acute pancreatitis due to severe hypertriglyceridemia after asparaginase treatment.
- To evaluate plasmapheresis as a treatment for asparaginase-induced hypertriglyceridemia and pancreatitis.
Main Methods:
- Case report of an adult patient with lymphoblastic lymphoma.
- Treatment with asparaginase during the consolidation phase.
- Management of severe hypertriglyceridemia and acute pancreatitis with plasmapheresis.
Main Results:
- The patient developed acute pancreatitis secondary to severe hypertriglyceridemia.
- Plasmapheresis was administered for treatment.
- The patient's condition was successfully managed with plasmapheresis.
Conclusions:
- Severe hypertriglyceridemia can be a complication of asparaginase therapy.
- Plasmapheresis is a safe and effective treatment for symptomatic patients with severe hypertriglyceridemia.
- This case highlights the importance of monitoring triglyceride levels during asparaginase treatment.
