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Visceral leishmaniasis in a patient with rheumatoid arthritis treated with methotrexate
Jesús Loarce-Martos1, Sandra Garrote-Corral1, Francesca Gioia2
1Servicio de Reumatología, Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal, Madrid, España.
Abstract:
A large number of complications have been associated with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), those of infectious etiology being of special relevance. Their high incidence is closely linked to the use of immunosuppressive medication. The spectrum of agents causing opportunistic infections in patients with RA is very broad; however, there are relatively few cases of Leishmania infection, especially in patients not being treated with biological drugs.
Insights
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients face infectious complications, often due to immunosuppressive drugs. Leishmania infections are rare in RA patients, particularly those not on biological therapies.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Infectious Diseases
- Immunology
Background:
- Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease.
- Immunosuppressive medications are commonly used to manage RA, increasing infection risk.
- Opportunistic infections are a significant concern in RA patients.
Observation:
- The spectrum of opportunistic infections in RA patients is broad.
- Leishmania infection is a rare complication in this population.
- This rarity is particularly noted in patients not receiving biological drugs.
Findings:
- A review of RA complications highlights infectious etiologies.
- Leishmania infections represent a small fraction of opportunistic infections in RA.
- The incidence of Leishmania is notably low in RA patients not on biologic agents.
Implications:
- Understanding infection risks is crucial for RA management.
- Leishmania should be considered in the differential diagnosis of infections in RA patients, albeit rarely.
- Further research may explore specific risk factors or protective mechanisms against Leishmania in RA.
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