Sarcoidosis-like reaction secondary to adalimumab treatment in a patient with axial spondyloarthritis

Monaldi Arch Chest Dis. 2022 Jul 4;93(1). doi: 10.4081/monaldi.2022.2343.

Abstract

Anti-TNF agents, namely adalimumab, are safe drugs that represent an important arsenal in the treatment of immune-mediated inflammatory diseases. "Paradoxical effects" have been described with their use. A sarcoidosis "like" reaction induced by these agents is rare and is characterized by a systemic granulomatous reaction indistinguishable from sarcoidosis. We present a 55-year-old male patient, with axial spondyloarthritis, treated with with adalimumab. About 17 months under this therapy, he complained of dry cough and wheezing. Chest CT showed a peri-lymphatic and pericisural micronodular pattern and hilo-mediastinal lymph nodes, suggestive of sarcoidosis. Angiotensin converting enzyme was increased. Assuming the hypothesis of a sarcoidosis-like reaction secondary to adalimumab this therapy was discontinued with progressive improvement in the patient's complaints and in the radiological changes.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adalimumab* / adverse effects
  • Axial Spondyloarthritis* / drug therapy
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Sarcoidosis* / chemically induced
  • Tumor Necrosis Factor Inhibitors* / adverse effects

Substances

  • Adalimumab
  • Tumor Necrosis Factor Inhibitors