Infliximab treatment of sarcoidosis.
OBJECTIVE
To determine whether there is sufficient evidence in the literature to support the use of infliximab in the treatment of sarcoidosis.


METHODS
Literature was accessed through MEDLINE (1966-August 2002), OVID (2001-January 2003), and bibliographic searches. Additional databases were also searched. Published literature relevant to the use of infliximab in the treatment of sarcoidosis was evaluated.


RESULTS
In theory, tumor-necrosis factor-alpha blockade appears to be an optimal strategy for treating sarcoidosis. Case series reporting the use of infliximab in refractory sarcoidosis was reviewed to evaluate its potential role as a treatment option.


CONCLUSIONS
Although there is insufficient evidence suggesting that infliximab is an appropriate alternative to conventional treatment options as first-line therapy for sarcoidosis, the preliminary outlook on its use in treatment-refractory cases is promising.
Serio
Ryan N
RN
St. John's University, 164-40 95 St., Howard Beach, NY 11414-3704, USA. condram@msn.com
D000911:Antibodies, Monoclonal / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D006801:Humans; D000069285:Infliximab; D012507:Sarcoidosis / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000503:physiopathology
D000911:Antibodies, Monoclonal; D000069285:Infliximab