Evaluating Asparaginase Toxicity in Hispanic Patients With Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia in a Large Safety-Net Hospital

Our cohort of Hispanic adults experienced transaminitis and hyperbilirubinemia at a high rate (93%). The higher incidence noted in our patients with class III obesity is in line with recent expert recommendations for dose reduction of asparaginase in patients with severe obesity. Our study suggests that our Hispanic population is at higher risk for developing hepatotoxicity after asparaginase use, though this could also be related to the high prevalence of obesity in our population. This is important for future care in selecting candidates for asparaginase therapy including those who may be at higher risk for adverse events.