Hydroxychloroquine-Induced Neutropenia in an Infant with Coronavirus-19 Disease

Abstract

Hydroxychloroquine (HCQ)-induced neutropenia is very rare in children. Even though idiosyncratic HCQ-induced neutropenia is mentioned as a possible side effect reported in the adult population, no pediatric cases have been published in the literature. We present an infant with severe neutropenia after HCQ therapy during the early COVID-19 pandemic. A 2-month-old infant with severe neutropenia after HCQ therapy during the early COVID-19 pandemic. After the neutrophil count returned to normal within a week of stopping the HCQ, and all other possible causes were ruled out, the diagnosis of HCQ-induced neutropenia was made. This case appears to be the first reported pediatric patient with severe neutropenia following the administration of HCQ. HCQ should be used with caution in young infants and only when strongly indicated. Idiosyncratic drug-induced neutropenia is typically serious in infants and mandates prompt diagnosis and management. When patients begin treatment with a drug that can cause neutropenia, neutrophil counts must be carefully monitored, especially in the first 2 days. Furthermore, if neutropenia occurs, we recommend neutrophil monitoring until complete recovery.