All-trans retinoic acid for the treatment of acute promyelocytic leukemia in pregnancy.

BACKGROUND

Acute promyelocytic leukemia, a subset of acute myelogenous leukemia, is commonly associated with disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC). All-trans retinoic acid is effective in the treatment of acute promyelocytic leukemia and may prevent an exacerbation of DIC. There is limited information, however, regarding the use of this agent in pregnancy.

CASE

A 29-year-old woman with acute promyelocytic leukemia and DIC at 24 weeks' gestation was treated successfully with all-trans retinoic acid during the pregnancy, delivering a viable, normal infant at 33 weeks.

CONCLUSION

This case illustrates the successful use of all-trans retinoic acid in pregnancy for the treatment of acute promyelocytic leukemia. With the combined, intensive efforts of the perinatal, neonatal, and hematology-oncology services, a favorable outcome was achieved.