Hypertriglyceridemia and hypercholesterolemia induced by L-asparaginase

Abstract

In summary, L-asparaginase may induce hypertriglyceridemia and increase serum cholesterol level though the mechanism may not be related to a reduction in lipoprotein lipase activity. The fibrinogen concentration and the HDL-cholesterol level can be low in these cases. These effects can reverse after cessation of the drug. Patients should be screened for dyslipidemia at least once a week after receiving L-asparaginase therapy and warned about the possibility of such adverse effects, including the potential risk of acute pancreatitis.