Infliximab and brucellosis: not the usual suspects, this time.
Tumor necrosis factor (TNF) plays an important role in the host defense mechanism, and anti-TNF antibody therapies may increase the risk of serious infections. We herein report a case of 57-year-old male with rheumatoid arthritis who developed brucellosis during treatment with infliximab in combination with methotrexate and a low-dose steroid. Brucellosis should be kept in mind, particularly in endemic areas, in patients receiving anti-TNF therapy. Clinicians should be aware of brucellosis symptoms and ways of contamination and should warn their patients. Early diagnosis and rapid treatment may prevent a possible poor course of the disease in immunocompromised patients.
Division of Rheumatology, Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Faculty of Medicine, Gevher Nesibe Hospital, Erciyes University, Romatoloji BD, 38039 Kayseri, Turkey.
Ozgur
O
Akgul
Salih
S
Ozgocmen
D000911:Antibodies, Monoclonal / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects*; D018501:Antirheumatic Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects*; D001172:Arthritis, Rheumatoid / Q000188:drug therapy*; D002006:Brucellosis / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000276:immunology*; D004359:Drug Therapy, Combination; D006801:Humans; D016867:Immunocompromised Host; D000069285:Infliximab; D008297:Male; D008727:Methotrexate / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects; D008875:Middle Aged
D000911:Antibodies, Monoclonal; D018501:Antirheumatic Agents; D000069285:Infliximab; D008727:Methotrexate