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[Tuberculosis among patients treated with TNF-alpha blockers]

Inbal Fuchs-Polychuck1, Lone Sølling Avnon, Mahmoud Abu-Shakra

  • 1Department of Family Medicine, Soroka University Medical Center, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev Beer Sheva, Israel.

Harefuah
|April 28, 2007
PubMed

Insights

Tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF) blocking agents can increase the risk of latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) reactivation. Guidelines recommend screening and prophylactic therapy for patients starting TNF blockade.

Area of Science:

  • Immunology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Pharmacology

Context:

  • Biologic drugs targeting tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF) are effective for chronic inflammatory diseases.
  • TNF blockers are associated with an increased risk of tuberculosis (TB) reactivation.
  • Existing international guidelines offer strategies for TB screening and prophylaxis in patients receiving TNF inhibitors.

Purpose:

  • To review the risk of TB reactivation in patients treated with TNF blockers.
  • To outline the role of TNF-alpha in TB pathogenesis.
  • To summarize current protocols for minimizing TB risk during TNF blockade.

Summary:

  • Treatment with TNF-blocking agents is linked to a higher risk of latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) reactivation.
  • This review examines the specific risks and the role of TNF-alpha in TB pathogenesis.
  • It also details current strategies and guidelines for preventing TB reactivation in patients undergoing TNF blockade therapy.

Impact:

  • Informing clinical practice regarding the safe use of TNF blockers.
  • Highlighting the need for standardized TB screening and management protocols.
  • Contributing to patient safety by mitigating the risk of severe infectious complications.

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