Tuberculosis associated with infliximab, a tumor necrosis factor α–neutralizing agent
Background Infliximab is a humanized antibody against tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α) that
is used in the treatment of Crohn's disease and rheumatoid arthritis. Approximately 147,000
patients throughout the world have received infliximab. Excess TNF-α in association with
tuberculosis may cause weight loss and night sweats, yet in animal models it has a
protective role in the host response to tuberculosis. There is no direct evidence of a
protective role of TNF-α in patients with tuberculosis. Methods We analyzed all reports of …
is used in the treatment of Crohn's disease and rheumatoid arthritis. Approximately 147,000
patients throughout the world have received infliximab. Excess TNF-α in association with
tuberculosis may cause weight loss and night sweats, yet in animal models it has a
protective role in the host response to tuberculosis. There is no direct evidence of a
protective role of TNF-α in patients with tuberculosis. Methods We analyzed all reports of …