Is the development of drug-related lupus a contraindication for switching from one TNF alpha inhibitor to another?

Lupus. 2009 Feb;18(2):169-71. doi: 10.1177/0961203308093922.

Abstract

The use of TNF alpha (TNFalpha) inhibitors has made a strong impact on the management of rheumatoid and psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis and Crohn disease. Side effects of these agents include the development of autoantibodies and a lupus-like syndrome (drug-related lupus, DRL). Here, a case of a patient who developed DRL while receiving infliximab therapy which resolved spontaneously upon discontinuation of the agent and did not recur with subsequent institution of adalimumab is described. A discussion on the possible pathogenic mechanisms involved in the development of drug-related autoimmunity and differences between the agents is also included.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adalimumab
  • Adult
  • Antibodies, Monoclonal / adverse effects*
  • Antibodies, Monoclonal / therapeutic use*
  • Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized
  • Crohn Disease / drug therapy
  • Humans
  • Infliximab
  • Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic / chemically induced*
  • Male
  • Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha / antagonists & inhibitors*

Substances

  • Antibodies, Monoclonal
  • Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized
  • Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha
  • Infliximab
  • Adalimumab