[TNF alpha-antagonists in collagen vascular disease]
1Institut für klinische Immunologie und Rheumatologie, Med. Klinik III mit Poliklinik, Krankenhausstr. 12, 91054 Erlangen, Germany. karin.manger@med3.imed.uni-erlangen.de
Abstract:
Over the last ten years various biologics have been introduced in the therapy of rheumatic diseases. The most successful approach so far has been the inhibition of TNF alpha, which is able to suppress systemic inflammation in an unprecedented manner. However, the early observation of newly developed antinuclear antibodies and some cases of drug-induced lupus has so far hampered the evaluation of this treatment option in larger clinical studies for collagen vascular diseases. Thus, ten years after treating the first RA patients with TNF alpha-Blockers we still only have reports of individual cases of patients with collagen vascular diseases treated with this principle. The following article reviews these single cases and summarizes the current knowledge about efficacy and safety of anti-TNF alpha-therapy for this indication.
Insights
Biologics targeting TNF alpha effectively treat rheumatic diseases. However, their use in collagen vascular diseases is limited due to potential side effects like drug-induced lupus, necessitating a review of existing case reports.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Immunology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Biologics, particularly TNF alpha inhibitors, have revolutionized rheumatic disease therapy.
- TNF alpha inhibition demonstrates significant efficacy in suppressing systemic inflammation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review individual case reports of anti-TNF alpha therapy in collagen vascular diseases.
- To summarize current knowledge on the efficacy and safety of anti-TNF alpha therapy for this specific indication.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of published case reports.
- Analysis of patient data regarding treatment efficacy and adverse events.
Main Results:
- Limited clinical studies exist for anti-TNF alpha therapy in collagen vascular diseases.
- Observed side effects include newly developed antinuclear antibodies and drug-induced lupus.
Conclusions:
- Anti-TNF alpha therapy shows potential but requires careful evaluation in collagen vascular diseases.
- Further research is needed to establish definitive efficacy and safety profiles for this patient group.
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