Infections in the immunocompromised rheumatologic patient.
Immunocompromised patients with rheumatic diseases have an increased risk of infections. A major risk factor for infection seems to be the immunosuppressive therapy used. Newer therapies for RA may lead to increased rates of infection by opportunistic pathogens such as Mycobacteria tuberculosis. Because disease manifestation may mimic signs and symptoms of infection, prompt diagnosis may be difficult. Familiarity with the likely infections and their causes should aid in obtaining the appropriate culture specimens.
Greenberg
Stephen B
SB
Departments of Medicine, Molecular Virology, and Microbiology, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030, USA. stepheng@bcm.tmc.edu
D000305:Adrenal Cortex Hormones / Q000009:adverse effects; D001172:Arthritis, Rheumatoid / Q000150:complications / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000276:immunology; D006801:Humans; D016867:Immunocompromised Host; D007166:Immunosuppressive Agents / Q000009:adverse effects; D007239:Infections / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology* / Q000628:therapy; D007362:Intensive Care Units; D008180:Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic / Q000150:complications* / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000276:immunology; D012216:Rheumatic Diseases / Q000150:complications* / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000276:immunology
D000305:Adrenal Cortex Hormones; D007166:Immunosuppressive Agents