
CME
Patients First: Navigating Asparaginase-Based Treatment in Young Adults with ALL
Ryan D. Cassaday, MD; Daniel J. DeAngelo, MD, PhD
Activity Release Date: 5 January 2026
Professor, Division of Hematology and Oncology
University of Washington School of Medicine
Professor, Clinical Research Division
Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center
Seattle, Washington
Chief, Division of Leukemia
Institute Physician, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute
Professor of Medicine, Harvard Medical School
Boston, Massachusetts
This CME activity integrates real patient stories, current evidence, evolving guideline recommendations, and expert clinical experience to equip hematology/oncology clinicians with practical strategies for successful asparaginase-based therapy in young adults with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). The overarching goal is to improve outcomes for young adults with ALL through more consistent application of pediatric-inspired regimens, optimized asparaginase use, and comprehensive, patient-centered care. Leukemia experts synthesize the latest evidence on the efficacy and safety of asparaginase-based ALL treatment for young adults. Using a case-based approach, the curriculum provides structured guidance on mitigation, monitoring, and management of key asparaginase-related toxicities. Practical recommendations include therapeutic drug monitoring of asparaginase activity, detection of clinical and silent hypersensitivity reactions, and timely substitution of E coli–derived asparaginase with Erwinia-derived asparaginase to preserve therapeutic activity and efficacy after immune-mediated inactivation. Beyond treatment selection and toxicity management, the activity addresses system-level and psychosocial barriers that uniquely affect young adults with ALL, such as distance from specialty centers, employment and family responsibilities, lower rates of clinical trial participation, and survivorship concerns.

