Share

Arthritis drug ups TB risk

An arthritis therapy appears to increase the risk of tuberculosis in certain patients, French researchers have found.

Their study examined the connection between TB and two anti-tumour necrosis factor (TNF) agents used to treat rheumatoid arthritis and other auto-immune diseases - soluble TNF receptor therapy (etanercept) and anti-TNF monoclonal antibody therapy (infliximab or adalimumab).

Patients receiving the monoclonal antibody were at higher risk for TB, they found. Most of the TB cases involved reactivation of a latent TB infection.

The Université Paris-Sud study appears in Arthritis & Rheumatism. The study made use of one of the world's most comprehensive TB registries and the only one that collects safety data for patients receiving anti-TNF therapy for any indication.

Led by Xavier Mariette, a team of researchers analysed all French cases of TB in patients receiving anti-TNF therapy during a three-year period. The drugs treat other auto-immune diseases in addition to rheumatoid arthritis, such as psoriasis, Crohn's disease and ankylosing spondylitis. They work by inhibiting TNF, a chemical involved in inflammation.

Scientists do not know for sure why the anti-TNF monoclonal antibody therapy puts patients at higher risk, which is greatest during the first year of use. Differences in how the two drugs impact specific T helper cells (which strengthen the immune system), and T regulatory cells (which suppress the immune system), may be a cause.

The researchers did not advise patients or healthcare providers to avoid taking the drug. However, health authorities worldwide recommend screening for latent TB and treating patients before starting any anti-TNF therapy. - (HealthDay News, July 2009)

Read more:
Arthritis Centre
Tuberculosis Centre

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE