Development of sarcoidosis during etanercept therapy

New onset sarcoidosis following biologic treatment in patients with seronegative inflammatory arthritis: A case series and systematic literature review

OBJECTIVE

To report cases of new onset sarcoidosis upon biologic (bDMARDs) treatment administration in patients with seronegative inflammatory arthritis in a real-life cohort, alongside a systematic literature review (SLR) on this topic.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective analysis on clinical records of patients with seronegative arthritis followed up in a monocentric cohort who underwent bDMARDs treatment due to the underlying rheumatic disease and described any newly diagnosed sarcoidosis in this cohort. Only ascertained cases with available radiological and/or histological documentation were considered. A SLR on new-onset sarcoidosis in seronegative arthritis receiving bDMARDs was performed across MEDLINE (through PubMed), Scopus and Ovid (Cochrane, Embase) electronic databases using appropriate strings.

RESULTS

In our cohort, 4 new-onset cases of sarcoidosis were reported among patients with seronegative inflammatory arthritis receiving biologics. Three out of 4 patients were receiving anti-tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα) while 1 patient was on secukinumab (anti-IL17A) prior to sarcoidosis onset. The SLR disclosed 46 new-onset sarcoidosis cases upon biological treatment for seronegative arthritis, of whom 43 occurred during treatment with anti-TNFα, while 3 during anti-IL-17A therapy. In our cohort as well as in the majority of cases reported in the SLR, sarcoidosis presented with lymph nodal and lung involvement and displayed a benign course with spontaneous resolution in about 1 fourth of the cases.

CONCLUSION

The use of biologics may relate to the onset of sarcoidosis; hence, clinicians must remain aware of the potential occurrence or reactivation of sarcoidosis when starting biologic treatment in patients with inflammatory arthritis, performing adequate patient assessment and surveillance. Since TNFα inhibitors may represent a therapeutic option for sarcoidosis, further evaluation on larger cohorts is needed to investigate any causal link with the development of sarcoidosis.

New Onset Isolated Granulomatous Dacryoadenitis During Etanercept Therapy

Anti-tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF- α) biological agents can rarely cause sarcoid-like granulomatosis. A 20-year-old woman presented with a 1-month history of painful left upper eyelid swelling. She was on subcutaneous etanercept and methotrexate for 1 year for juvenile idiopathic arthritis. Imaging showed diffuse enlargement of the left and minimal enlargement of the right lacrimal gland. There was no finding in favor of sarcoidosis on systemic evaluation. Incisional biopsy of the left lacrimal gland revealed non-caseating granulomatous dacryoadenitis. The findings showed significant regression 1 month after cessation of Etanercept therapy. To the best of our knowledge, this report illustrates the first case of an isolated granulomatous dacryoadenitis during TNF-α antagonist therapy.

Development of pulmonary sarcoidosis in Crohn's disease patient under infliximab biosimilar treatment after long-term original infliximab treatment: a case report and literature review

BACKGROUND

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is chronic inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract, although its etiology has largely been unclear. Tumor necrosis factor inhibitors (TNF-I) are effective for the treatment. Recently, biosimilars of TNF-I, such as CT-P13, have been developed and are thought to possess equal efficacy and safety to the original TNF-I. Sarcoidosis is also a systemic granulomatous disease of unknown etiology. In steroid-resistant cases of sarcoidosis, TNF-I have been reported effective for achieving resolution. However, the progression of sarcoidosis due to the TNF-I also has been reported. We herein report a case of pulmonary sarcoidosis with a Crohn's disease (CD) patient developed after a long period administration (15 years) of TNF-I.

CASE PRESENTATIONS

A 37-year-old woman with CD who had been diagnosed at 22 years old had been treated with the TNF-I (original infliximab; O-IFX and infliximab biosimilar; IFX-BS). Fifteen years after starting the TNF-I, she developed a fever and right chest pain. Chest computed tomography (CT) revealed clustered small nodules in both lungs and multiple enlarged hilar lymph nodes. Infectious diseases including tuberculosis were negative. Bronchoscopic examination was performed and the biopsy specimens were obtained. A pathological examination demonstrated noncaseating granulomatous lesions and no malignant findings. TNF-I were discontinued because of the possibility of TNF-I-related sarcoidosis. After having discontinued for four months, her symptoms and the lesions had disappeared completely. Fortunately, despite the discontinuation of TNF-I, she has maintained remission.

CONCLUSIONS

To our knowledge, this is the first case in which sarcoidosis developed after switching from O-IFX to IFX-BS. To clarify the characteristics of the cases with development of sarcoidosis during administration of TNF-I, we searched PubMed and identified 106 cases. When developing an unexplained fever, asthenia, uveitis and skin lesions in patients with TNF-I treatment, sarcoidosis should be suspected. Once the diagnosis of sarcoidosis due to TNF-I was made, the discontinuation of TNF-I and administration of steroid therapy should be executed promptly. When re-starting TNF-I, another TNF-I should be used for disease control. Clinicians should be aware of the possibility of sarcoidosis in patients under anti-TNF therapy.

Systemic Sarcoidosis Associated with Certolizumab Pegol Treatment for Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Case Report and Review of the Literature

A 69-year-old woman presented with appetite loss, fatigue, and a low-grade fever. She had been receiving certolizumab pegol for rheumatoid arthritis for six years. Computed tomography of the chest showed multiple micronodules in both lungs and bilateral hilar and mediastinal lymphadenopathy. An ophthalmic examination showed the findings of uveitis. Lymphocytosis with an increased CD4/CD8 ratio was seen in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid. Video-assisted thoracoscopic biopsy specimens obtained from the right lung and a right hilar lymph node showed noncaseous epithelioid cell granulomas. Anti-tumor necrosis factor-α-induced sarcoidosis was diagnosed, and she was successfully treated with cessation of certolizumab pegol and systemic corticosteroid therapy.

Cutaneous Sarcoidosis

Sarcoidosis is a chronic, multisystem, inflammatory disorder of unknown etiology that is characterized by noncaseating granulomas that impair normal organ functioning. Sarcoidosis predominantly affects the lungs, but the skin is often cited as the second most frequently involved organ. Cutaneous manifestations of sarcoidosis are highly variable and ongoing research seeks to better understand the relationship between clinical morphology and disease prognosis. Skin findings in patients with sarcoidosis can be "specific," in which sarcoidal granulomas infiltrate the skin, or they can represent a "nonspecific" reactive inflammatory process, as is seen in calcinosis cutis and erythema nodosum. Cutaneous sarcoidosis can be the initial presenting sign or develop later in the course of the disease. In some patients, the skin will be the most involved and impactful organ system and will drive therapy. In other cases, the skin will be an incidental or minor finding, but may be easily accessible for biopsy to confirm the diagnosis. There are many potential therapies for sarcoidosis, though no one therapy is universally effective.

Necrotizing Granulomas in a Patient With Psoriasis and Sarcoidosis After Adalimumab-Medication-Induced Reaction or Reactivation of Latent Disease?

In this report, we describe a case of a patient with a clinical history of systemic sarcoidosis and psoriasis who developed biopsy-confirmed perforating and necrotizing cutaneous granulomas after 12 months of treatment with adalimumab, a tumor necrosis factor-alpha-inhibiting, anti-inflammatory, biologic medication, prescribed for the patient's psoriasis. Although rare reports of a "sarcoidosis-like" reaction associated with select tumor necrosis factor-alpha agents exist, to the best of our knowledge, perforating and necrotizing cutaneous granulomas after treatment with adalimumab has not been previously reported. Given the patient's history of systemic sarcoidosis, the differential diagnosis includes reactivation of latent sarcoidosis with adalimumab as a trigger.

Drug-Induced Sarcoidosis-Like Reactions

A drug-induced sarcoidosis-like reaction (DISR) is a systemic granulomatous reaction that is indistinguishable from sarcoidosis and occurs in a temporal relationship with initiation of an offending drug. DISRs typically improve or resolve after withdrawal of the offending drug. Four common categories of drugs that have been associated with the development of a DISR are immune checkpoint inhibitors, highly active antiretroviral therapy, interferons, and tumor necrosis factor-α antagonists. Similar to sarcoidosis, DISRs do not necessarily require treatment because they may cause no significant symptoms, quality of life impairment, or organ dysfunction. When treatment of a DISR is required, standard antisarcoidosis regimens seem to be effective. Because a DISR tends to improve or resolve when the offending drug is discontinued, this is another effective treatment for a DISR. However, the offending drug need not be discontinued if it is useful, and antigranulomatous therapy can be added. In some situations, the development of a DISR may suggest a beneficial effect of the inducing drug. Understanding the mechanisms leading to DISRs may yield important insights into the immunopathogenesis of sarcoidosis.

Sarcoidosis and spondyloarthritis: A coincidence or common etiopathogenesis?

Background:

Sarcoidosis is a multisystem granulomatous disease. Co-existence with spondyloarthritis (SA) has been more described as an adverse effect of anti-TNF α therapy than an association. We report herein a case of a typical sarcoidosis confirmed by histological proofs and an advanced SA with a bamboo column.

Case Presentation:

A 48-years-old woman presented with inflammatory back pain for 5 years and ankle swelling for 1 year. On physical examination, she had an exaggerated dorsal kyphosis and disappearance of lumbar lordosis with limitation in motion of the cervical and lumbar spine. Laboratory tests did not show an inflammatory syndrome or hypercalcemia. Plain radiographies of the spine and pelvic revealed a triple ray appearance with sacroiliitis grade 4. Chest radiography and CT confirmed the presence of bilateral hilar lymph nodes and parenchymal nodes. Bronchoscopy and biopsies were performed showing non-calcified granulomatous reaction without cell necrosis. The diagnosis of SA was performed based on 9 points of Amor criteria associated with pulmonary sarcoidosis. She was treated with 15 mg per week of methotrexate and 1mg/kg/day of prednisone for pulmonary disease with good outcomes.

Conclusions:

Sarcoidosis may be associated to SA besides paradoxical drug effect. The same physio pathological pathways mediate by TNF α are arguments for association than hazardous coincidence.

Certolizumab Pegol-Induced Folliculitis-Like Lichenoid Sarcoidosis in a Patient with Rheumatoid Arthritis

Anti-tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α) biologic agents are used for treating refractory sarcoidosis. However, sarcoidosis-like epithelioid cell granulomas may develop during anti-TNF-α treatment. A 63-year-old man suffering from rheumatoid arthritis was treated with oral methotrexate and methylprednisolone for 4 years. He subsequently started biweekly subcutaneous injections of certolizumab pegol. Three months later, light red follicular papules developed on his chest and they spread over the trunk and bilateral upper arms. Histopathology of a lesion showed a sharply demarcated noncaseating epithelioid cell granuloma with multi-nucleated giant cells in the upper perifollicular area. The follicular papules subsided following discontinuation of certolizumab pegol. Folliculitis-like lichenoid sarcoidosis should be included among the adverse cutaneous reactions of anti-TNF-α treatment.

Etanercept for treating axial spondyloarthritis

INTRODUCTION

Axial spondyloarthritis is an inflammatory rheumatic disease causing back pain, functional impairment and potential ankylosis in the advanced stage. In this context, TNF blockers have been a major therapeutic advance. Etanercept is a soluble recombinant TNF receptor fusion protein in this vain. Areas covered: The aim of this review is to summarize the current published data concerning the efficacy and tolerance of etanercept in axial spondyloarthrits. The authors performed a systematic review on PubMed, using 'etanercept' and 'spondyloarthritis', 'axial spondyloarthritis' or 'ankylosing spondylitis' keywords. Expert opinion: Etanercept showed clinical efficacy on the axial (non-radiographic and radiographic) and peripheral manifestations (peripheral arthritis and enthesitis) of axial spondyloarthritis (Ax-SpA). Among the extra-articular manifestations, it works on psoriasis but not on inflammatory bowel disease, with a lack of efficacy data in anterior uveitis. Etanercept also demonstrated an interesting tolerance profile and good drug survival rates after 5 years. Etanercept was also shown to reduce MRI inflammation on the spine and the sacroiliac joints. However, like other TNF blockers, its impact on radiographic progression could not be fully demonstrated. In the context of upcoming new biologic targeted treatments, head-to-head and longer-term randomized controlled trials are now required to further define the role of etanercept in spondyloarthritis treatment strategies.

Sarcoidosis-Like Lesions: Another Paradoxical Reaction to Anti-TNF Therapy?

BACKGROUND

Since the introduction of anti-tumour necrosis factor [TNF] therapy in inflammatory diseases, paradoxical reactions are increasingly being reported. One of these paradoxical reactions is the development of sarcoidosis-like lesions. This presentation is paradoxical since anti-TNF therapy can also be therapeutic in refractory cases of sarcoidosis.

METHODS

We report two cases of sarcoidosis-like lesions under anti-TNF therapy. Both were patients with inflammatory bowel disease [IBD], treated successfully with adalimumab. Next, we reviewed the literature for similar cases. Medical subject heading terms 'adalimumab', 'infliximab', 'etanercept', 'golimumab' or 'certolizumab', and 'sarcoidosis' were used to perform key word searches of the PubMed database.

RESULTS

We identified 90 reported cases of sarcoidosis-like lesions, which developed during anti-TNF therapy. In most cases, the anti-TNF drug involved was etanercept. The median age was 43 years and there was a predominance of female patients. The underlying disease was rheumatoid arthritis in most cases, followed by ankylosing spondylitis and psoriasiform arthritis. In six cases, the underlying disease was IBD. In 71 cases there was at least a partial resolution by discontinuation of the anti-TNF treatment, initiation of steroids or both. Re-initiation of anti-TNF therapy gave relapse in seven out of 20 cases.

CONCLUSION

Sarcoidosis-like lesions are increasingly reported during anti-TNF treatment. Vigilance is appropriate when patients present with symptoms compatible with sarcoidosis.

A Rare Adverse Effect of Anti-Tumor Necrosis Factor Alpha Therapy: Sarcoidosis

Anti-tumor necrosis factor alpha (anti-TNF-a) therapy has been widely used for the management of rheumatologic diseases. The most frequent adverse effects of anti-TNF-a therapy are infections and malignancies while sarcoidosis is a rare condition. On the other hand, anti-TNF-a therapy has been used in the treatment of sarcoidosis. Elucidation of this paradoxical issue is unclear. In this article, we report an ankylosing spondylitis patient who was diagnosed as sarcoidosis during the period of etanercept usage. Sarcoidosis as a possible adverse effect should be kept in mind during anti-TNF-a therapy.

Tumor Necrosis Factor Alpha Blocker-Induced Erythrodermic Sarcoidosis in with Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Case Report and Review of the Literature

The development of cutaneous sarcoidosis as a paradoxical adverse event of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) blockers has been reported in the literature; however, an erythrodermic form of cutaneous sarcoidosis during anti-TNF-α therapy has not yet been reported. Herein, we report the first case of an erythrodermic form of cutaneous sarcoidosis during anti-TNF-α therapy and review previous studies of cutaneous sarcoidosis. A 6-year-old Korean girl who had been suffering from juvenile rheumatoid arthritis presented with generalized erythematous skin eruption involving more than about 90% of her body surface area. After 14 months of etanercept treatment, the new erythematous skin eruption had developed and progressed into generalized erythroderma. Exclusion of suspected co-medication had been performed based on medication history. She had no other systemic symptoms, and ophthalmologic and neurologic examinations were normal. Histopathologic findings of the skin lesion revealed diffuse non-caseating granulomatous infiltrates composed of epithelioid histiocytes with sparse lymphocytes involving the entire dermis. Periodic-acid-Schiff and acid-fast stains were negative, and acid-fast bacilli was not detected by polymerase chain reaction of the skin biopsy. Based on clinicopathologic findings, she was diagnosed with etanercept-induced sarcoidal granuloma. After discontinuation of the suspected agent, the lesions spontaneously disappeared.

Anti-TNFα Treatment for HLA-B27-Positive Ankylosing Spondylitis-Related Uveitis

PURPOSE

To assess the long-term efficacy of the most widely used anti-tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα) agents for treatment of HLA-B27-positive ankylosing spondylitis (AS)-related uveitis.

DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study.

METHODS

The medical records of 143 patients with HLA-B27-positive AS who visited Seoul St. Mary's Hospital and were taking an anti-TNFα agent for at least 1 year were studied. Subjects were divided into 3 groups according to anti-TNFα treatment: Group 1 (infliximab, 66), Group 2 (adalimumab, 45), and Group 3 (etanercept, 32).

RESULTS

Mean age was 41.0 ± 13.0 years, and 97 patients (67.8%) were male. Mean follow-up period was 70.6 ± 37.9 months. In cases of active ocular inflammation at the onset of anti-TNFα treatment, patients showed improved activity of uveitis after 24.0 ± 15.0 days (Group 1), 17.9 ± 6.0 days (Group 2), and 25.9 ± 18.0 days (Group 3). After the anti-TNFα treatment, 71 of 94 patients (32 [76.2%] in Group 1, 26 [78.8%] in Group 2, and 13 [68.4%] in Group 3) remained without uveitis relapse. A reduction in the number of systemic medications was achieved in 129 patients (90.2%). Twenty-eight cases of minor side effects were observed, and 4 cases were tuberculosis leading to discontinuation of anti-TNFα treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

Infliximab, adalimumab, and etanercept were effective for treating and reducing the number of uveitis relapses in HLA-B27-positive AS. However, the risk of serious infections was noted, so ophthalmologists should consider the possibility that prolonged use of biologic agents may result in systemic side effects.

Orbital Sarcoid-Like Granulomatosis After Inhibition of Tumor Necrosis Factor-α

Pharmacologic inhibition of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) has been used in the management of a variety of inflammatory conditions. Recently, reports on the development of sarcoid-like granulomatous disease at multiple systemic sites after treatment with TNF-α inhibitors have emerged, although, to the authors' knowledge, orbital manifestations of this problem have not been previously described. A 48-year-old woman who received injections of adalimumab for the treatment of psoriatic arthritis developed right-sided orbital pain and inflammation. Orbital biopsy of a focal lesion demonstrated sarcoid-like granulomatosis, and a workup for other causes of this problem was noncontributory. This report represents the first documented case of this phenomenon in the orbit, and possible mechanisms are discussed in this presentation. Given the expanding role of TNF-α inhibitors and the increased frequency of their use, clinicians should be aware of this possible side effect.

Etanercept for the treatment of non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis

Presently, tumor necrosis factor α antagonist therapy is the only effective alternative treatment to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for the entire spectrum of axial spondyloarthritis, including non-radiographic and radiographic (=ankylosing spondylitis) forms. Recently, etanercept has been approved by the European Medicines Agency for the treatment of non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis, increasing the number of available treatment options for this indication. The latest data on etanercept concerning clinical efficacy and safety in short-term and long-term treatment of patients with non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis who do not respond to the first-line therapy with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs suggests good efficacy and safety profiles similar to that observed previously in ankylosing spondylitis. This article reviews recent data on the efficacy and safety of etanercept and is focused on the treatment of non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis. This article will also discuss the role of etanercept in the context of current and developing treatment options.

Anti-tumor necrosis factor-α therapy in uveitis

Since the first reported use in 2001 of an anti-tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) agent, infliximab, for the treatment of uveitis, several new anti-TNF-α agents have emerged for the treatment of refractory noninfectious uveitides, although their use remains off-label in the US. These agents have demonstrated remarkable clinical antiinflammatory efficacy and a potential immunoregulatory role in selected uveitis patients, but it is currently unclear whether they can modify the natural history of disease. We review the rationale and clinical indications for this therapy, the differences between agents, how to manage dosing and intervals, and how to screen for and identify potential side effects. We also present a summary of the science behind the use of anti-TNF-α agents in ocular inflammation and the evidence for their efficacy.

Mononeuritis multiplex as the first presentation of refractory sarcoidosis responsive to etanercept

BACKGROUND

Several disorders may present with mononeuritis multiplex and the etiological diagnosis can be challenging.

CASE PRESENTATION

We report a 42 year-old female who presented with severe lower limb neuropathic pain, asymmetric weakness and sensory impairment and was diagnosed with mononeuritis multiplex. Biopsy showed a granulomatous vasculitic process with eosinophils, scarce granulomata and axonal neuropathy and granulomatosis with poliangiitis was assumed. Steroids, cyclophosphamide, alemtuzumab, azathioprine, mycophenolate mofetil and rituximab were used, all with transient and insufficient response. Skin biopsy performed in a further exacerbation allowed sarcoidosis diagnosis. Infliximab and, later, adalimumab induced good clinical and laboratorial response, but neutralizing antibodies developed to both drugs, so etanercept was tried with good clinical response.

CONCLUSIONS

To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of sarcoidosis successfully treated with etanercept. This drug may be considered in refractory sarcoidosis after other TNF-α inhibitors failure, having the advantage of not being associated with neutralizing antibodies development.

Coexistence of Ankylosing Spondylitis and Löfgren's Syndrome

A 46-year-old male patient diagnosed with ankylosing spondylitis presented to our polyclinic with complaints of pain, swelling, and limitation in joint mobility in both ankles and erythema nodosum skin lesions in both pretibial sites. The sacroiliac joint graphy and the MRI taken revealed active and chronic sacroiliitis. On the thorax CT, multiple mediastinal and hilar lymphadenopathies were reported. Mediastinoscopic excisional lymph node biopsy was taken and noncalcified granulomatous structures, lymphocytes, and histiocytes were determined on histopathological examination. The patients were diagnosed with ankylosing spondylitis, sarcoidosis, and Löfgren's syndrome. NSAIDs, sulfasalazine, and low dose corticosteroid were started. Significant regression was seen in the patient's subjective and laboratory assessments.

Diagnosis and classification of drug-induced autoimmunity (DIA)

Since sulfadiazine associated lupus-like symptoms were first described in 1945, certain drugs have been reported to interfere with the immune system and induce a series of autoimmune diseases (named drug-induced autoimmunity, DIA), exemplified by systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Among the drugs, procainamide and hydralazine are considered to be associated with the highest risk for developing lupus, while quinidine has a moderate risk, and all other drugs have low or very low risk. More recently, drug-induced lupus has been associated with the use of newer biological modulators, such as tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha inhibitors and cytokines. In addition to lupus, other major autoimmune diseases, including vasculitis and arthritis, have also been associated with drugs. Because resolution of symptoms generally occurs after cessation of the offending drugs, early diagnosis is crucial for treatment strategy and improvement of prognosis. Unfortunately, it is difficult to establish standardized criteria for DIA diagnosis. Diagnosis of DIA requires identification of a temporal relationship between drug administration and the onset of symptoms, but the relative risk with respect to dose and duration for each drug has rarely been determined. DIA is affected by multiple genetic and environmental factors, leading to difficulties in establishing a list of global clinical features that are characteristic of most or all DIA patients. Moreover, the distinction between authentic DIA and unmasking of a latent autoimmune disease also poses challenges. In this review, we summarize the highly variable clinical features and laboratory findings of DIA, with an emphasis on the diagnostic criteria.

Long-term safety and efficacy of etanercept in the treatment of ankylosing spondylitis

To date, anti-tumor necrosis factor alfa (anti-TNF-α) therapy is the only alternative to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for the treatment of ankylosing spondylitis. Etanercept is a soluble TNF receptor, with a mode of action and pharmacokinetics different to those of antibodies and distinctive efficacy and safety. Etanercept has demonstrated efficacy in the treatment of ankylosing spondylitis, with or without radiographic sacroiliitis, and other manifestations of the disease, including peripheral arthritis, enthesitis, and psoriasis. Etanercept is not efficacious in inflammatory bowel disease, and its efficacy in the treatment of uveitis appears to be lower than that of other anti-TNF drugs. Studies of etanercept confirmed regression of bone edema on magnetic resonance imaging of the spine and sacroiliac joint, but failed to reduce radiographic progression, as do the other anti-TNF drugs. It seems that a proportion of patients remain in disease remission when the etanercept dose is reduced or administration intervals are extended. Etanercept is generally well tolerated with an acceptable safety profile in the treatment of ankylosing spondylitis. The most common adverse effect of etanercept treatment is injection site reactions, which are generally self-limiting. Reactivation of tuberculosis, reactivation of hepatitis B virus infection, congestive heart failure, demyelinating neurologic disorders, hematologic disorders like aplastic anemia and pancytopenia, vasculitis, immunogenicity, and exacerbation or induction of psoriasis are class effects of all the anti-TNF drugs, and have been seen in patients with ankylosing spondylitis. However, etanercept is less likely to induce reactivation of tuberculosis than the other anti-TNF drugs and it has been suggested that etanercept might be less immunogenic, especially in ankylosing spondylitis. Acute uveitis, Crohn's disease, and sarcoidosis are other adverse events that have been rarely associated with etanercept therapy in patients with ankylosing spondylitis.

Side effects of TNF-α blockers in patients with psoriatic arthritis: evidences from literature studies

Psoriatic arthritis is an inflammatory rheumatic disorder, which occurs in patients with skin and/or nail psoriasis. In psoriatic arthritis, the importance of biologic mediators modulating inflammatory reaction, such as tumor necrosis factor, and the knowledge on their role in the pathogenesis of psoriatic arthritis influence the therapeutic choices. In the last years, the introduction of biologic drugs has greatly changed the treatment of psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. In fact, tumor necrosis factor-α blockers demonstrated an effective action in the treatment of both skin and joint manifestations of psoriatic arthritis, but they have some adverse effects. The aim of this review is to revisit the literature data on adverse effects of tumor necrosis factor-α blockers in patients with psoriatic arthritis.

Monitoring of nonsteroidal immunosuppressive drugs in patients with lung disease and lung transplant recipients: American College of Chest Physicians evidence-based clinical practice guidelines

OBJECTIVES

Immunosuppressive pharmacologic agents prescribed to patients with diffuse interstitial and inflammatory lung disease and lung transplant recipients are associated with potential risks for adverse reactions. Strategies for minimizing such risks include administering these drugs according to established, safe protocols; monitoring to detect manifestations of toxicity; and patient education. Hence, an evidence-based guideline for physicians can improve safety and optimize the likelihood of a successful outcome. To maximize the likelihood that these agents will be used safely, the American College of Chest Physicians established a committee to examine the clinical evidence for the administration and monitoring of immunosuppressive drugs (with the exception of corticosteroids) to identify associated toxicities associated with each drug and appropriate protocols for monitoring these agents.

METHODS

Committee members developed and refined a series of questions about toxicities of immunosuppressives and current approaches to administration and monitoring. A systematic review was carried out by the American College of Chest Physicians. Committee members were supplied with this information and created this evidence-based guideline.

CONCLUSIONS

It is hoped that these guidelines will improve patient safety when immunosuppressive drugs are given to lung transplant recipients and to patients with diffuse interstitial lung disease.

New onset sarcoid-like granulomatosis developing during anti-TNF therapy: an under-recognised complication

Tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-a) antagonists have advanced the treatment of inflammatory arthropathies, and are even considered for use in refractory sarcoidosis with some success. Paradoxically, cases of new onset sarcoidosis-like diseases are increasingly reported in patients receiving TNF-a antagonists. Here, we report three cases of sarcoid-like granulomatosis that developed during treatment with TNF-a antagonists. Review of the Biologics clinic data base at Westmead, Sydney, Australia identified three patients whom, during anti-TNF therapy, developed non-caseating granulomas consistent with sarcoidosis. These three cases are described with review of the literature from 2000 to 2009 using PubMed. One hundred and sixty-nine patients within our data base were reviewed for the period 2003–2009. Sarcoidosis-like granulomas developed in three patients within a period of 3 to 36 months of treatment with etanercept and/or adalimumab. All cases demonstrated non-infective, non-caseating granulomas on renal or lymph node biopsy. Improvement was seen in two cases upon cessation of TNF-a antagonist and steroid therapy. Interestingly, clinical deterioration was noted upon re-challenge with the same TNF-a antagonist in one patient. To date, a total of 37 cases of sarcoid-like granuloma development after anti-TNF therapy have been reported in the literature. Development of sarcoidosis-like granulomatosis in patients treated with TNF-a antagonists is a phenomenon previously under-recognised. All three anti-TNF agents have been observed to cause this phenomenon, suggesting a ‘class effect’ rather than being drug specific.

Development of cutaneous sarcoidosis during treatment with tumour necrosis alpha factor antagonists

The use of tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) antagonists is increasing in the field of dermatology. These agents have been used for multiple inflammatory and immune skin conditions, but most notably, psoriasis. Adverse effects of anti-TNF-α agents have been reported, including the paradoxical development of sarcoidosis. We present an unusual case of limited cutaneous sarcoidosis developing while the patient was on etanercept therapy, and a review of the current literature.

[Sarcoïdosis and anti-TNF: a paradoxical class effect? Analysis of the French Pharmacovigilance system database and literature review]

OBJECTIVES

To identify and characterize the observations of sarcoidosis occurring during anti-TNF blockade collected in the French Pharmacovigilance system database and reported in the literature.

RESULTS

Seven cases were reported in the French Pharmacovigilance system database and 39 cases (37 original) have been reported internationally. Monoclonal antibodies (infliximab and adalimumab) and fusion protein (etanercept) are equally involved. Sarcoidosis have been confirmed histologically and occurred predominantly in the rheumatoid arthritis (22) and spondylarthropathy (16).

CONCLUSION

The lack of protopathic bias suggests that these paradoxical sarcoidosis occurring during treatment with anti-TNF are a class-effect, as with psoriasis, uveitis, and IBD reported under similar conditions. Their pathogenesis remains unclear.

Using TNF-alpha antagonist adalimumab for treatment for multisystem sarcoidosis: a case study

We report the usage of the TNF-alpha antagonist adalimumab in patients with progressive multisystem sarcoidosis. Three patients with multisystem sarcoidosis (MSS) were treated with adalimumab for 12 months. All three patients were quickly responded to adalimumab and experienced a nearly complete regression of the symptoms that lead to an intensive immunosuppression. However, some accompanying symptoms of sarcoidosis, such as splenomegalia, did not respond. One patient suffered 18 months later a new unspecified abdominal lymphadenopathy. TNF-alpha antagonists can be helpful agents in the treatment for MSS. However, the experience with TNF-alpha antagonists in patients with sarcoidosis is still limited. Multicenter trials and a comparison of the different agents are needed to validate the safety and efficacy in these patients. Optimal dosage, duration of therapy and long-term toxicity of anti-TNF therapy in patients with refractory sarcoidosis are yet to be determined in prospective trials.

Pulmonary manifestations of ankylosing spondylitis

Ankylosing spondylitis, a chronic multisystem inflammatory disorder, can present with articular and extra-articular features. It can affect the tracheobronchial tree and the lung parenchyma, and respiratory complications include chest wall restriction, apical fibrobullous disease with or without secondary pulmonary superinfection, spontaneous pneumothorax, and obstructive sleep apnea. Ankylosing spondylitis is a common cause of pulmonary apical fibrocystic disease; early involvement may be unilateral or asymmetrical, but most cases eventually consist of bilateral apical fibrobullous lesions, many of which are progressive with coalescence of the nodules, formation of cysts and cavities, fibrosis, and bronchiectasis. Mycobacterial or fungal superinfection of the upper lobe cysts and cavities occurs commonly. Aspergillus fumigatus is the most common pathogen isolated, followed by various species of mycobacteria. Prognosis of patients with fibrobullous apical lesions is mainly determined by the presence, extent, and severity of superinfection. Pulmonary function test results are nonspecific and generally parallel the severity of parenchymal involvement. A restrictive ventilatory impairment can develop in patients with ankylosing spondylitis because of either fusion of the costovertebral joints and ankylosis of the thoracic spine or anterior chest wall involvement. Chest radiographic findings may mirror the severity of clinical involvement. Pulmonary parenchymal disease is typically progressive, and cyst formation, cavitation, and fibrosis are seen in advanced cases. No treatment has been shown to alter the clinical course of apical fibrobullous disease. Although several antiinflammatory agents, such as infliximab, etanercept, and adalimumab, are being used to treat ankylosing spondylitis, their effects on pulmonary manifestations are unclear.

Tumor necrosis factor-alpha antagonist-induced sarcoidosis

Sarcoidosis is a multisystem granulomatous disease of unknown etiology. Tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha is an important player in granuloma formation, and recent clinical trials have investigated the efficacy of TNF-alpha inhibitors in sarcoidosis. Paradoxically, there are several case reports in the medical literature describing the development of sarcoidosis in patients treated with TNF-alpha inhibitors. We describe 3 cases of TNF-alpha antagonist-induced sarcoidosis: 1 case of pulmonary, ocular and cutaneous sarcoidosis developing in a patient receiving infliximab for erosive rheumatoid arthritis, 1 case of etanercept-induced sarcoidosis in a patient with seronegative rheumatoid arthritis, and 1 case of sarcoidosis developing in a patient receiving etanercept for erosive rheumatoid arthritis. We also provide a brief discussion on the role of TNF alpha in granuloma formation and implications in the use of TNF-alpha antagonists in autoimmune disease.

Drug-induced granulomatous interstitial nephritis in a patient with ankylosing spondylitis during therapy with adalimumab

Tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α) inhibitors are used in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, Crohn disease, ankylosing spondylitis, and juvenile idiopathic arthritis. Use of TNF inhibitors is associated with the induction of autoimmunity (systemic lupus erythematosus, vasculitis, psoriasis, and sarcoidosis/sarcoid-like granulomas). We report a case of interstitial granulomatous nephritis in a patient with ankylosing spondylitis after 18 months of treatment with adalimumab. Previously reported cases of sarcoid-like reactions secondary to the use of TNF-α inhibitors involved the liver, lung, lymph nodes, central nervous system, and skin. Granulomatous nephritis after adalimumab treatment has not been described. Close observation of patients undergoing treatment with TNF inhibitors for evolving signs and symptoms of autoimmunity is required. Organ involvement is unpredictable, which makes correct diagnosis and management extremely challenging.

Sarcoidosis during infliximab therapy for Crohn's disease

Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) antagonists are effective for inflammatory diseases, such as Crohn's disease, rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and psoriasis. Although TNF-alpha antagonists are also useful for sarcoidosis, paradoxical occurrence of sarcoidosis or sarcoidal reaction may be observed. We report a Crohn's disease patient, who developed sarcoidosis during infliximab therapy. A 35-year-old man had been receiving infliximab for 7 months for Crohn's disease. He developed cough and fever, accompanied by an infiltrated erythematous plaque on his right knee. The chest radiography, skin biopsy and laboratory findings were all consistent with sarcoidosis.

Lung sarcoidosis induced by TNF antagonists in rheumatoid arthritis: a case presentation and a literature review

We report on a 72 year-old woman with long-standing rheumatoid arthritis diagnosed as granulomatosis due to pulmonary sarcoidosis after 49 months of treatment with etanercept. A clinical and radiological improvement was seen after tumor necrosis factor (TNF) antagonist withdrawal plus a course of steroids. Currently, 27 cases of histological proven sarcoidosis with pulmonary involvement have been reported in relation to anti-TNF therapy, with etanercept being more frequent in comparison with the anti-TNF monoclonal antibodies infliximab and adalimumab. Potential pathogenic mechanisms of the paradoxical effect of anti-TNF treatment is discussed. It is important for clinicians to be aware of this potential and uncommon complication of biological therapy with TNF antagonists.

Development of sarcoidosis during adalimumab therapy for chronic plaque psoriasis

A 38-year-old woman developed clinical, biochemical, radiological and histopathological evidence of cutaneous and pulmonary sarcoidosis 5 months after commencing adalimumab for chronic plaque psoriasis. Signs and symptoms resolved within 3 months of cessation of adalimumab.

Paradoxical adverse effects of anti-TNF-alpha treatment: onset or exacerbation of cutaneous disorders

TNF-alpha antagonists have been shown to be very effective for the treatment of various rheumatic and nonrheumatic diseases, including psoriasis, and for off-label use in other inflammatory and immune-mediated disorders. However, the increasing use of these agents has led to the recognition of several paradoxical cutaneous adverse effects. New onset or exacerbation of cutaneous psoriasis, cutaneous vasculitis and sarcoidosis have been described. Further characterization and more precise diagnosis of these adverse events are warranted to provide further insights into the pathogenic mechanisms involved and to optimize their management. Herein, we present a review of the different clinical patterns of these paradoxical cutaneous adverse disorders, and we propose recommendations for their management.

[TNFα blocking agents and sarcoidosis: an update]

Increased production of TNFα by alveolar macrophages and involvement of TNFα in granuloma formation suggest that this cytokine is involved in the pathophysiology of sarcoidosis. The three available TNFα blocking agents have been tested in sarcoidosis refractory to corticosteroids or immunosuppressive drugs. Data are available from isolated case reports or limited series of patients treated in open label trials with favourable issue with anti-TNFα monoclonal antibodies. Two randomized placebo controlled studies evaluated the efficacy of infliximab in pulmonary and extra-pulmonary sarcoidosis, showing that infliximab improves significantly extra-pulmonary disease. There is no significant difference between infliximab and placebo in the treatment of pulmonary manifestations. Etanercept showed no efficacy for treating ocular sarcoidosis in a controlled trial and for pulmonary disease in an open label trial. Paradoxical cases of proven sarcoidosis have been reported in patients receiving anti-TNFα agents for chronic inflammatory rheumatic diseases. A literature review identified 28 cases, including 16 with etanercept, eight with infliximab and four with adalimumab. Although these cases were mainly reported with etanercept, paradoxical sarcoidosis has been reported with the three available anti-TNFα agents, suggesting a class effect. Changes in the cytokine balance may be involved in these cases of induced sarcoidosis, which must be known by the clinician.

Update on bioagent therapy in sarcoidosis

Corticosteroids are still the cornerstone of treatment for patients with sarcoidosis requiring systemic therapy. However, alternative agents and especially methotrexate may be considered for patients with refractory disease or requiring prolonged treatment with intolerable side effects. Although bioagent therapies have hitherto not clearly demonstrated superior efficacy and safety over corticosteroids in pulmonary sarcoidosis, infliximab may modestly improve lung function in patients with active disease resistant to steroids. Further studies will be needed to assess both safety and efficacy of infliximab in pulmonary sarcoidosis. Infliximab may be considered in a limited number of patients with severe extrapulmonary systemic manifestations of sarcoidosis, with careful individual evaluation of the risk-benefit ratio.