Hepatosplenic T-Cell Lymphoma is a focal point of our foundation because Tommy did develop this disease and did use Mercaptopurine (6MP).

I’ve researched multiple papers, from reputable sources, primarily with a goal of linking a direct cause to HSTCL. These sources strongly associate the long term use of the following medications in the treatment of IBD, and particularly, Crohn’s Disease in the US and abroad.  

From a paper published in the European Crohn's and Colitis Organisation, "Conclusion: Hepatosplenic T-cell lymphoma is a rare disease, often with a poor outcome. With the increasing number of reported cases of HSTCL linked to the use of infliximab, adalimumab, and AZA/6-MP, there appears to be an undeniable association of HSTCL development with the use of these agents. This risk is unquantifiable. When considering the rarity of cases and the multiple complications with uncontrolled disease, however, the benefit of treatment far outweighs the risk."

The medications/agents referred to in this paper include:

• Infliximab – whose brands include, but are not limited to, Remicade, Avsola, Inflectra and Renflexis;
• Adalimumab – whose brand name includes Humira;
• Thiopurines – whose brand names include Imuran and Azasan;
• Mercaptopurine– whose brand names include 6MP, Purinethol and Purixan

If you, or someone you know, are taking these medications/agents in their treatment of IBD, please consider the devastating risk and discuss the risk / benefits with your doctor to determine if there are alternative treatments available.