Optimizing Asparaginase Treatment for Adolescent and Young Adult (AYA) Patients With Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia: US...

Asparaginase is an integral component of therapy for pediatric patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia/lymphoblastic lymphoma. The success of asparaginase-containing regimens has led to trials of pediatric/pediatric-inspired regimens incorporating asparaginase for treating adolescent and young adult (AYA) and adult populations with acute lymphoblastic leukemia/lymphoblastic lymphoma. While treatment of AYA patients with these regimens is associated with improved clinical outcomes compared with adult-specific protocols, AYA patients face unique challenges with these treatments, further complicated by a rapidly evolving therapeutic landscape. In this article, we identify barriers and other feasibility issues associated with administering asparaginase-based treatment to AYA patients and provide recommendations from a consensus panel of experts to optimize AYA patient outcomes and experiences. Barriers identified include the limited access to clinical trials and specialized expertise in pediatric-inspired regimens for AYA patients compared with pediatric patients, the complex management of asparaginase toxicities, limited medical facilities and experienced staff to administer and manage pediatric-inspired regimens, and reduced AYA patient access/adherence to treatment due to lifestyle-related or psychosocial challenges. Recommendations are provided on addressing and managing these challenges to improve asparaginase-based treatment accessibility and safety in AYA patients, including specific recommendations for high-risk populations. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT04817761.