Infectious complications associated with monoclonal antibodies and related small molecules.
Biologics are increasingly becoming part of routine disease management. As more agents are developed, the challenge of keeping track of indications and side effects is growing. While biologics represent a milestone in targeted and specific therapy, they are not without drawbacks, and the judicious use of these "magic bullets" is essential if their full potential is to be realized. Infectious complications in particular are not an uncommon side effect of therapy, whether as a direct consequence of the agent or because of the underlying disease process. With this in mind, we have reviewed and summarized the risks of infection and the infectious disease-related complications for all FDA-approved monoclonal antibodies and some related small molecules, and we discuss the probable mechanisms involved in immunosuppression as well as recommendations for prophylaxis and treatment of specific disease entities.
Salvana
Edsel Maurice T
EM
Division of Infectious Diseases and HIV Medicine, Department of Medicine, University Hospitals Case Medical Center and Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio 44106-5083, USA.
Salata
Robert A
RA
D000911:Antibodies, Monoclonal / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000627:therapeutic use; D002318:Cardiovascular Diseases / Q000188:drug therapy; D003952:Diagnostic Imaging; D006801:Humans; D007239:Infections / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000209:etiology*; D008171:Lung Diseases / Q000188:drug therapy; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000188:drug therapy; D009422:Nervous System Diseases / Q000188:drug therapy; D012216:Rheumatic Diseases / Q000188:drug therapy
D000911:Antibodies, Monoclonal