Successful delivery after planned discontinuation of imatinib in a patient with chronic myeloid leukemia

A 24-year-old woman with chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) chronic phase was started on imatinib in August 2004 and complete hematologic response (CHR) was achieved. In May 2006, controlled ovarian hyperstimulation was started after stopping imatinib. Her pregnancy test was positive in October 2006. At 32 weeks, she had 29% metaphases positive for the Ph chromosome; CHR was sustained. She had a normal delivery at 38 weeks without any complications. Five weeks after delivery, imatinib was resumed. Complete molecular response was sustained 5 months after re-administration of imatinib. A CML patient may give a birth after intentionally stopping imatinib before conception.