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Listeria monocytogenes infection in a patient treated with methotrexate for rheumatoid arthritis
M M McCambridge1, S A Vogelgesang, C F Ockenhouse
1Department of Medicine, Walter Reed Army Medical Center, Washington, DC 20307-5000, USA.
Abstract:
We describe a patient with rheumatoid arthritis who developed bacteremia from Listeria monocytogenes after treatment with low dose oral pulse methotrexate. We discuss possible immunologic mechanisms for susceptibility to Listeria infections. As the elderly population increases with more frequent use of immunosuppressive medications, clinical suspicion must be maintained to correctly diagnose and treat infections such as Listeria.
Insights
Rheumatoid arthritis patients on low-dose methotrexate may face Listeria monocytogenes infections. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial, especially in older adults using immunosuppressants.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Infectious Diseases
- Immunology
Background:
- Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease.
- Methotrexate is a common immunosuppressive therapy for RA.
- Listeria monocytogenes is an opportunistic pathogen.