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Etanercept-induced systemic lupus erythematosus
V J Swale1, C M Perrett, C P Denton
1Department of Dermatology, Royal Free Hospital, London, UK. vjswale@doctors.org.uk
Clinical and Experimental Dermatology
|November 18, 2003
Summary
Tumour necrosis factor (TNF) antagonists like etanercept can rarely induce systemic lupus erythematosus. This case highlights a potential adverse effect of TNF-alpha inhibition therapy.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Rheumatology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Tumour necrosis factor (TNF) is a key pro-inflammatory cytokine implicated in autoimmune diseases.
- Etanercept is a biologic therapy targeting TNF-alpha, approved for conditions like rheumatoid arthritis.
Observation:
- Patients on TNF antagonists may develop antinuclear and anti-double-stranded DNA antibodies.
- Clinical manifestations of lupus erythematosus are rarely reported with TNF antagonist use.
Findings:
- This report details one of the first cases of etanercept-induced systemic lupus erythematosus.
- A review of existing literature on lupus and TNF antagonists is provided.
Implications:
- Clinicians should be aware of the potential for etanercept to induce systemic lupus erythematosus.
- Further research is needed to understand the mechanisms and incidence of lupus induction by TNF inhibitors.