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Infliximab in Takayasu arteritis: a safe alternative?
Zaharenia Th Karageorgaki1, Clio P Mavragani, Matthilde A Papathanasiou
1Department of Pathophysiology, School of Medicine, National University of Athens, Athens, Greece.
Clinical Rheumatology
|April 25, 2006
Summary
Infliximab, a TNF-alpha inhibitor, shows promise in treating Takayasu arteritis. Three of four patients responded, with two maintaining response for two years, indicating potential as a safe treatment option.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Rheumatology
- Vascular Medicine
Background:
- Takayasu arteritis is a rare, chronic inflammatory disease affecting large arteries.
- Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) plays a key role in the pathogenesis of Takayasu arteritis.
- Current treatment options have limitations and potential side effects.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy and safety of Infliximab, a monoclonal antibody targeting TNF-alpha, in patients with Takayasu arteritis.
- To assess the long-term response to Infliximab treatment in this patient cohort.
Main Methods:
- A small cohort of four patients with Takayasu arteritis was treated.
- Infliximab was administered intravenously at 3 mg/kg at weeks 0, 2, 6, and 8, in combination with methotrexate or azathioprine.
- Dosage adjustments, including a higher regimen of 5 mg/kg, were made as needed.
Main Results:
- Three out of four patients demonstrated a positive response to Infliximab treatment.
- Two patients maintained their response for a two-year follow-up period.
- A higher dose of 5 mg/kg was required for two responders, and no major adverse events were reported.
Conclusions:
- Infliximab appears to be an effective therapeutic option for managing Takayasu arteritis.
- The treatment demonstrated a favorable safety profile in the studied patients.
- Infliximab offers a potential alternative treatment for individuals with Takayasu arteritis.