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BMC Pediatrics
Published in: BMC Pediatrics 1/2020

Open Access 01-12-2020 | Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia | Case report

Concurrent diabetic ketoacidosis and pancreatitis in Paediatric acute lymphoblastic leukemia receiving L-asparaginase

Authors: Patel Zeeshan Jameel, Sham Lohiya, Amol Dongre, Sachin Damke, Bhavana B. Lakhkar

Published in: BMC Pediatrics | Issue 1/2020

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Abstract

Background

Although hyperglycemia and pancreatitis are known side effects of L-asparaginase, both contributing to the development of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is unfamiliar in literature.

Case presentation

We report a case of an adolescent girl, recently diagnosed with ALL, who presented with pain in abdomen and breathing difficulty following chemotherapy with L-asparaginase. On subsequent evaluation, she was found to have high anion gap metabolic acidosis, hyperglycemia and ketonuria. Ultrasonogram showed bulky pancreas. DKA was managed with fluid correction and insulin infusion. Pancreatitis was managed conservatively. She recovered completely with resolution of symptoms and without any major adverse events despite having such severe complications.

Conclusion

We conclude that the combination of DKA and pancreatitis is a rare occurrence with significant morbidity and mortality. We recommend a close monitoring of blood glucose levels for hyperglycemia as well as a high index of clinical suspicion for pancreatitis in patients with ALL receiving L-asparaginase.
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Metadata
Title
Concurrent diabetic ketoacidosis and pancreatitis in Paediatric acute lymphoblastic leukemia receiving L-asparaginase
Authors
Patel Zeeshan Jameel
Sham Lohiya
Amol Dongre
Sachin Damke
Bhavana B. Lakhkar
Publication date
01-12-2020
Publisher
BioMed Central
Published in
BMC Pediatrics / Issue 1/2020
Electronic ISSN: 1471-2431
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1186/s12887-020-02136-3

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