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Updated: Jun 14, 2026

Determination of the Relative Potency of an Anti-TNF Monoclonal Antibody (mAb) by Neutralizing TNF Using an In Vitro Bioanalytical Method
Published on: September 16, 2017
Tumour necrosis factor inhibitors and risk of serious infection in rheumatoid arthritis
Veera S Katikireddi1, Samuel L Whittle, Catherine L Hill
1Rheumatology Unit, The Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Woodville South, Australia.
Abstract:
Tumour necrosis factor inhibitors have demonstrated significant clinical and radiological benefits in rheumatoid arthritis (RA). However, they have important adverse effects including an association with infection. Results from current studies, including meta-analyses of randomized controlled trials and observational studies, are conflicting regarding the risk of serious infection in RA patients treated with TNF inhibitors. The majority of data suggest an increased risk, in particular of respiratory, skin and soft tissue infections, including tuberculosis. This increased risk of tuberculosis is of particular concern in the APLAR region. However, adverse event analysis remains a difficult area to study and decisions regarding initiation of TNF inhibitors must be made on a case-by-case basis after carefully considering the risks and benefits.
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