Skin Toxicity Due to Mercaptopurine in Maintenance Therapy Among Children With Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia

Abstract

Mercaptopurine is a crucial component in the treatment of acute lymphoblastic leukemia. It is associated with toxicities that can delay treatment. Mercaptopurine is metabolized into 6-thioguanine nucleotides and 6-methylomercaptopurine nucleotides (6MMPN). Accumulation of 6MMPN has previously been associated with hepatotoxicity, pancreatitis, and hypoglycemia. However, skin toxicity has rarely been reported. We report 5 cases of elevated 6MMPN levels associated with cutaneous manifestations.