Pharmacogenomics-based individualized treatment of hypertension in preterm infants: A case report and review of the literature

BACKGROUND: Neonatal hypertension is a rare but potentially serious condition that requires careful monitoring and treatment. Pharmacogenomics can help guide individualized drug therapy and improve outcomes. CASE SUMMARY: We report a case of a preterm infant with multiple complications, including bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD), sepsis, intracranial hemorrhage, and hypertension. The infant was treated with various drugs, including dexamethasone and amlodipine. The infant was diagnosed with neonatal hypertension based on blood pressure measurements exceeding the 95(th) percentile for his age and sex. The possible causes of hypertension included dexamethasone, hydrochlorothiazide, spironolactone, and BPD. The infant was treated with oral amlodipine to lower his blood pressure. A pharmacogenomic test was performed to evaluate the genetic polymorphisms of ABCB1 and CYP3A5, which are involved in the metabolism and transport of dexamethasone and amlodipine. The infant’s blood pressure was well controlled after the dose of amlodipine was reduced according to the pharmacogenomic results. The infant had a stable general condition and was discharged on the 100(th) d after birth. CONCLUSION: This case illustrates the importance of regular blood pressure monitoring and etiological investigation in preterm infants with hypertension. Pharmacogenomics can provide useful information for individualized drug therapy and safety in this population.