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Adalimumab-induced acute myelogenic leukemia
Nakhle S Saba1, Semaan G Kosseifi, Edris A Charaf
1Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, James H. Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, James H. Quillen VA Medical Center, TN 37684, USA.
Southern Medical Journal
|November 14, 2008
Summary
New biological treatments show promise but raise safety concerns. A patient on adalimumab for juvenile rheumatoid arthritis developed acute myelogenic leukemia, highlighting potential risks.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Oncology
- Immunology
Background:
- Biological therapies, including TNF-alpha inhibitors like adalimumab, have emerged as effective treatments for autoimmune diseases.
- Recent reports suggest a potential association between these advanced therapies and an increased risk of malignancies.
- The safety profile of biological agents requires ongoing scrutiny, particularly in long-term use.
Observation:
- A 44-year-old female patient with advanced juvenile rheumatoid arthritis was treated with adalimumab (Humira).
- The patient subsequently developed acute myelogenic leukemia (AML).
Findings:
- This case presents a potential link between adalimumab therapy and the development of acute myelogenic leukemia.
- The occurrence of malignancy in a patient undergoing biological treatment warrants further investigation into the underlying mechanisms.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of vigilant monitoring for adverse events, including malignancies, in patients receiving biological treatments.
- Further research is needed to elucidate the risk factors and biological pathways involved in therapy-related cancers.
- Clinicians should carefully weigh the benefits and risks of adalimumab and similar agents in managing juvenile rheumatoid arthritis.