Extracorporeal Perfusion Treatment with Immobilized L-Asparaginase

Abstract

Female patients (2) with malignant melanoma were treated with L-asparaginase immobilized in an extracorporeal perfusion chamber constructed by Hyden et al. The patients were treated for 80 h during 26 days and 99 h during 36 days, respectively. L-asparaginase was immobilized by covalent bonds on the surfaces of the chamber. Perfusion resulted in an effective decrease to < 7 mmol/l serum of the asparagine content. The patients withstood treatment well without any signs of allergic reactions. Antibodies against L-asparaginase were not found. Analyses were continuously performed during treatment with respect to electrolytes, enzymes and immunoglobulins. No abnormal variations could be found.