Acquired Immunodeficiency in Newborn Following Intrauterine Exposure to Thiopurines for Treatment of Inflammatory Bowel Disease

ACG Case Reports Journal 2026 Open access

Read full text
Authors: Susan M. Morand, Michael T. Lam, Surachai Amornsawadwattana, Alexandra M. Gutierrez, Alan A. Nguyen, Susan E. Prockop, Julie Ruggiero, Maleewan Kitcharoensakkul
DOI: 10.14309/crj.0000000000002004
Cited by: 1
References: 22

Abstract

Thiopurine-based therapy is a common immunosuppressive treatment of inflammatory bowel diseases. It inhibits purine synthesis, and its metabolism is influenced by genetic variation. Thiopurines, azathioprine and 6-mercaptopurine (6-MP), have not been identified as teratogenic in humans and are considered safe to use during pregnancy. Here, we present 3 infants who developed severe lymphopenia secondary to prenatal exposure. Clinicians should be aware of this uncommon but potentially severe side effects.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia research Pregnancy and Medication Impact Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Publication details

Journal / source
ACG Case Reports Journal
Publisher
Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health)
Volume
13
Issue
3
Pages
e02004–e02004
Publication date
1 March 2026
Language
EN