Chronic Myeloid Leukaemia in Pregnancy: A Case Report

Ishau Muhammad Dirisu; Ezekiel Iphierooghene  Ohwotake

doi:10.4314/ajtmbr.v8i1.8

Authors

Ishau Muhammad Dirisu Delta State University , Delta State University Author
Ezekiel Iphierooghene Ohwotake Asaba Specialist Hospital Author

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.4314/ajtmbr.v8i1.8

Keywords:

Chronic myeloid leukaemia, pregnancy, haematological malignancy, Nigeria

Abstract

Introduction: Chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML) is a haematological malignancy characterized by the accumulation of monoclonal myeloid cells in the peripheral blood and bone marrow, often with splenic infiltration. CML in pregnancy presents an intriguing challenge because first-line therapy with tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) is contraindicated due to potential fetal complications.

Case Report: A 37-year-old unbooked woman presented with features of hypermetabolism, postpartum haemorrhage, and elevated white blood cell count. Following hysterectomy and haematologic investigations, a diagnosis of CML (chronic phase) was made. She was managed with hydration, allopurinol, haematinics, and hydroxyurea, which resulted in significant improvement and normalization of clinical symptoms.

Conclusion: CML in pregnancy is rare and presents unique diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. Hydroxyurea and interferon-alpha may be considered safe alternatives to TKIs during pregnancy, while timely diagnosis and multidisciplinary management are crucial to optimizing maternal and fetal outcomes.

Author Biographies

Ishau Muhammad Dirisu, Delta State University, Delta State University

Haematology and Blood Transfusion.

Lecturer 1
Ezekiel Iphierooghene Ohwotake , Asaba Specialist Hospital

Department of Haematology and Blood Transfusion

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