Adalimumab treatment may replace or enhance the activity of steroids in steroid-refractory tuberculous meningitis

J Infect Chemother. 2012 Aug;18(4):555-7. doi: 10.1007/s10156-011-0334-y. Epub 2011 Nov 2.

Abstract

We describe a paradoxical response involving the central nervous system in a patient with steroid-refractory tuberculous meningitis that was unresponsive to systemic corticosteroids but was improved with adalimumab. The immunomodulatory effect of tumor necrosis factor inhibitors may have a role in replacing or enhancing the activity of steroids in the management of steroid-refractory tuberculous meningitis.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adalimumab
  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized / therapeutic use*
  • Antitubercular Agents / therapeutic use
  • Brain / pathology
  • Drug Synergism
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Steroids / adverse effects
  • Steroids / therapeutic use*
  • Tuberculosis, Meningeal / drug therapy*
  • Tuberculosis, Meningeal / pathology
  • Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha / antagonists & inhibitors

Substances

  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents
  • Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized
  • Antitubercular Agents
  • Steroids
  • Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha
  • Adalimumab