BACKGROUND: Thiopurine S-methyltransferase (TPMT) and Nudix hydrolase (NUDT15) polymorphisms predispose to thiopurine-related leukopenia. METHODS: Retrospective evaluation of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) patients harboring NUDT15 polymorphisms and exposed to thiopurines. We report the frequency of NUDT15 polymorphism, frequency of leukopenia, the tolerated dose of azathioprine, and the clinical efficacy of thiopurines. RESULTS: Of 1440 patients, 118 (8.2%) had NUDT15 polymorphism. Among 51 with complete details, 46 were heterozygous (90.2%), and 5 homozygous (9.2%) for NUDT15. Twenty (43.5%) heterozygous and all homozygous patients developed leukopenia. Leukopenia was significantly more in NUDT15 heterozygous group compared to controls (43.45% vs 7.8%, Odds ratio: 9, 95% CI 3.57-22.9). The maximum tolerated dose of azathioprine was lower in NUDT15 heterozygous group (1.1 ± 0.4 mg per kg vs 1.7 ± 0.7 mg per kg, = 0.002). The mean time to leukopenia was earlier in the heterozygous group vs controls (19 ± 56 weeks vs 70 ± 53 weeks, p-value 0.002). Seven (35%) of 20 heterozygous patients who developed leukopenia, could be maintained at a lower dose of thiopurine. Twenty-five maintained clinical remission while on thiopurines. CONCLUSION: Thiopurines should be avoided in NUDT15 homozygous but can be used cautiously at lower dosages with frequent monitoring among heterozygous patients.
