Related Experiment Videos
Cutaneous manifestations of hydroxyurea therapy in childhood: case report and review
M Issaivanan1, P Shrikande Mitu, Chakrabarti Manisha
1Department of Hematology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India.
Insights
Hydroxyurea, used for myeloproliferative disorders, can cause skin and nail hyperpigmentation in children. This case highlights mucocutaneous side effects, emphasizing careful monitoring during pediatric treatment.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Hematology
- Dermatology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Hydroxyurea is a standard treatment for myeloproliferative disorders and certain benign hematologic conditions in children, such as sickle cell disease.
- Long-term use of hydroxyurea is known to cause various mucocutaneous adverse effects, including skin hyperpigmentation, hair loss, and nail changes.
- The pediatric application of hydroxyurea is expanding to a wider range of conditions.
Observation:
- A 10-year-old boy with chronic myelogenous leukemia developed skin and nail hyperpigmentation three months after initiating hydroxyurea therapy.
- The patient presented with melanonychia affecting all 20 nails and involvement of skin, nails, and oral mucosa.
- This presentation was unique due to the widespread mucocutaneous involvement at the time of initial observation.
Findings:
- The case demonstrates a significant association between hydroxyurea treatment and extensive mucocutaneous hyperpigmentation in a pediatric patient.
- Melanonychia and mucosal hyperpigmentation are notable adverse effects that can occur with hydroxyurea use.
- The findings underscore the importance of recognizing these cutaneous manifestations in children undergoing hydroxyurea therapy.
Implications:
- Increased pediatric use of hydroxyurea necessitates greater awareness of its potential dermatologic side effects.
- Early identification and management of hydroxyurea-induced mucocutaneous effects are crucial for patient well-being.
- This case emphasizes the need for comprehensive monitoring of skin, nail, and mucosal changes in children receiving hydroxyurea.
Abstract:
Hydroxyurea is commonly used in the treatment of various myeloproliferative disorders. In conventional pediatric clinical practice, its use is limited to benign hematologic conditions such as sickle cell disease and thalassemia. Long-term hydroxyurea use is associated with various adverse mucocutaneous effects including hyperpigmentation, alopecia, leg ulcers, and lichenoid eruptions. We report a 10-year-old boy with chronic myelogenous leukemia who presented with hyperpigmentation of the skin and nails 3 months after the start of hydroxyurea therapy. Melanonychia of all 20 nails with involvement of all three mucocutaneous areas (skin, nails, and mucosa) at presentation was a unique feature in our patient. With the recently increasing pediatric use of hydroxyurea in a variety of disorders, its benign and not so uncommon cutaneous adverse effects are emphasized here.
Related Concept Videos
Chronic Kidney Disease II: Clinical Manifestations
Hypersensitivity Reactions: Cytolytic Reactions
Nephrotic Syndrome II : Assessment and Medical Management
Hemodialysis II: Procedure and Complications
Acute Kidney Injury III: Clinical Manifestations
Nephrotic Syndrome I : Introduction