- L-asparaginase, brand names Elspar, Oncaspar and Erwinase, is a chemotherapy drug. According to Mar Vista Animal Medical Center, tumor cells need asparagines to grow fast and this drug helps destroy asparagines.
- Most chemotherapy drugs are intravenous, but L-asparaginase can also be given intramuscular or subcutaneous. It also causes limited tissue irritation.
- Because the intestines, liver, bone marrow and pancreas need asparagine, L-asparaginase can cause diarrhea, bone marrow suppression and bleeding, and liver and pancreas problems. It can also cause an allergic reaction.
- The primary treatment for mast cell tumors is the surgical removal and grading of the tumor. With a completely removed grade I tumor, further treatment may not be necessary and the prognosis is excellent. Radiation therapy is recommended if tumor tissue remains or with grade II or higher.
- Treatment with radiation and chemotherapy, including L-asparaginase, are common with grades III and IV mast cell tumors. The prognosis for advanced mast cell tumors even with treatment is guarded, according to Canine Cancer Awareness.
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