Pegaspargase Rechallenge Following Grade 2 Hypersensitivity Reaction in Childhood Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia:...

Hypersensitivity reactions with pegylated Escherichia coli-derived asparaginase formulations are frequent and can complicate delivery of intended therapy for patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). On DFCI 16-001, which enrolled patients aged 1-21 years with newly diagnosed ALL, we piloted pegaspargase rechallenge after Grade 2 hypersensitivity reaction, including premedication and serum asparaginase activity (SAA) assessment. Among those who underwent rechallenge, the rechallenge dose was successfully administered (without reaction and with adequate SAA) in 41.3% of patients. This approach reduces the number of patients requiring switch to alternative asparaginase formulations, which have had limited availability and require frequent dosing.