Craniosynostosis Following Fetal Methotrexate Exposure

J Craniofac Surg. 2016 Mar;27(2):450-2. doi: 10.1097/SCS.0000000000002423.

Abstract

Methotrexate (MTX) is an antimetabolite, folic acid antagonist that inhibits purine nucleotide production, DNA synthesis, and cellular proliferation. Despite widespread therapeutic uses, MTX remains a potent teratogen. Methotrexate embryopathy encompasses multiorgan system dysfunction, including intrauterine growth restriction as well as cardiac, craniofacial, renal, genital, and skeletal abnormalities. Effects of MTX exposure on fetal development continue to be described. This series of 4 patients with MTX-associated craniosynostosis represents the largest published association between prenatal MTX exposure and premature cranial suture closure.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Abnormalities, Multiple / chemically induced
  • Craniosynostoses / chemically induced*
  • Female
  • Fetal Diseases / chemically induced*
  • Folic Acid Antagonists / adverse effects*
  • Humans
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Male
  • Methotrexate / adverse effects*
  • Prenatal Injuries / chemically induced*
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed / methods
  • Ultrasonography, Prenatal

Substances

  • Folic Acid Antagonists
  • Methotrexate