Infectious Complications Associated with Immunomodulating Biologic Agents

Adalimumab-associated Philadelphia chromosome positive acute lymphoblastic leukaemia in a patient with Crohn's disease

The US Food and Drug Administration has approved TNF(Tumor necrosis factor) alpha inhibitors to manage a range of inflammatory conditions, including Crohn's disease, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis and other inflammatory disorders. However, these inhibitors can potentially increase the risk of secondary blood malignancies due to TNF alpha's role in various cellular processes such as angiogenesis, cell cycle proliferation, apoptosis and differentiation. In this article, we present a unique case study of a patient who developed Philadelphia-positive acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) while receiving adalimumab, a potent monoclonal antibody that specifically binds to TNF-alpha. We describe the patient's successful treatment using standard-of-care chemotherapy and tyrosine kinase inhibitors, resulting in complete remission with no measurable residual disease. Furthermore, we conducted a literature review on this subject and identified five similar cases of ALL associated with TNF alpha inhibitors.

Spondyloarthritides

The spondyloarthritides are a diverse group of distinct yet interrelated disease processes with overlapping clinical features. They are ankylosing spondylitis, reactive arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease-associated arthritis, and psoriatic arthritis. Genetically, these disease processes have been linked by the presence of HLA-B27. They manifest with axial and peripheral symptoms, such as inflammatory back pain, enthesitis, oligoarthritis, and dactylitis. The onset of symptoms can begin before the age of 45; however, because of the wide range of signs and symptoms, diagnosis can be delayed, leading to unchecked inflammation, structural damage, and later, restriction in physical mobility.

Impact of a Dedicated Pretransplant Infectious Disease Consultation on Respiratory Tract Infections in Kidney Allograft Recipients: A Retrospective Study of 516 Recipients

BACKGROUND

Respiratory tract infections (RTIs) are a leading cause of death after kidney transplant. Preventive strategies may be implemented during a dedicated infectious disease consultation (IDC) before transplantation. Impact of IDC on RTIs after transplant has not been determined.

METHODS

We conducted a monocentric retrospective cohort analysis including all kidney transplant recipients from January 2015 to December 2019. We evaluated the impact of IDC on RTIs and identified risk and protective factors associated with RTIs.

RESULTS

We included 516 kidney transplant recipients. Among these, 145 had an IDC before transplant. Ninety-five patients presented 123 RTIs, including 75 (61%) with pneumonia. Patient that benefited from IDC presented significantly less RTIs (p = 0.049). RTIs were an independent risk factor of mortality (HR = 3.64 (1.97-6.73)). Independent risk factors for RTIs included HIV (OR = 3.33 (1.43-7.74)) and HCV (OR = 3.76 (1.58-8.96)). IDC was identified as an independent protective factor (OR = 0.48 (0.26-0.88)). IDC prior to transplantation is associated with diminished RTIs and is an independent protective factor. RTIs after kidney transplant are an independent risk factor of death. Implementing systematic IDC may have an important impact on reducing RTIs and related morbidity and mortality.

Vaccinations in Children and Adolescents Treated With Immune-Modifying Biologics: Update and Current Developments

Treatment with immune-modifying biologics has positively impacted disease control and quality of life in many patients with immune-mediated disorders. However, the higher susceptibility to common and opportunistic pathogens is of concern. Thus, immunization strategies to control vaccine-preventable diseases represent a critical issue in this population. However, limited data exist on the safety, immunogenicity, and efficacy of available vaccines in patients on biologics, particularly in children. Here, according to published literature and real-life experience and practice, we report the interim indications of the Italian Society of Pediatric Allergology and Immunology (SIAIP) Vaccine Committee and of the Italian Primary Immunodeficiency Network (IPINet) Centers on immunization of children and adolescents receiving biologics. Our aim is to provide a practical guidance for the clinician to ensure optimal protection for patients and the community.

Case Report: Histoplasma Hepatitis Presenting as Common Bile Duct Obstruction

Histoplasma capsulatum is the most common endemic mycosis in the United States and can cause disseminated histoplasmosis in immunocompromised patients.1 Although hepatic involvement is common with histoplasmosis, it can be challenging to diagnose. We report a case of a 50-year-old woman receiving adalimumab for rheumatoid arthritis who presented with right upper quadrant pain, fever, jaundice, and dyspnea. The initial working diagnosis was biliary obstruction with potential COVID-19 infection. Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography suggested Mirizzi syndrome, but successful sphincterotomy failed to improve jaundice over subsequent days. Bronchoscopy and liver biopsy were performed, with the first revealing budding yeast and the later growing H. capsulatum. The patient improved with the initiation of itraconazole therapy.

Spondyloarthritides

The spondyloarthritides are a diverse group of distinct yet interrelated disease processes with overlapping clinical features. They are ankylosing spondylitis, reactive arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease-associated arthritis, and psoriatic arthritis. Genetically, these disease processes have been linked by the presence of HLA-B27. They manifest with axial and peripheral symptoms, such as inflammatory back pain, enthesitis, oligoarthritis, and dactylitis. The onset of symptoms can begin before the age of 45; however, because of the wide range of signs and symptoms, diagnosis can be delayed, leading to unchecked inflammation, structural damage, and later, restriction in physical mobility.

[Travelling with children and adolescents with rheumatic diseases]

Due to the underlying disease and immunosuppressive treatment, pediatric patients with rheumatic diseases are at increased risk for (long distance) travel-related health problems. A pretravel comprehensive consultation is therefore strongly recommended. Whether a child with rheumatic disease is sufficiently fit for travel essentially depends on the disease activity, the age of the child and the intended travel destination. Depending on the level of immunosuppression, the risks for this patient group include (travel-related) infections and the possibility of disease activity flares. Of particular importance is adequate exposure prevention: standard vaccinations should be updated and indications for travel vaccinations evaluated in advance of travelling. In this context, potential contraindications, especially for live vaccines, in the case of specific immunosuppressive treatment should be considered. In the event of travel to malaria endemic areas, the necessity for chemoprophylaxis or stand-by medication must be evaluated but caution is needed regarding potential drug interactions. Detailed education about careful hand, food and contact hygiene is critical. Because photosensitivity may be increased in some rheumatic diseases and/or medications, UV protection is crucial. Barriers (clothes and mosquito nets) and age-appropriate chemical insect repellents should be used to prevent insect-borne diseases. Before start of travel, possibilities for on-site medical help in the event of disease deterioration and/or infection should be evaluated. This should be included in the assessment of the patient's ability to travel. Travelers with rheumatic disease should carry a first aid kit that includes both a sufficient supply of regular antirheumatic medication and supplemental medication in case of a disease flare. Storage conditions must be taken ínto account for some medications. Ultimately, the success of a journey depends on the planning from the perspective of the child with its specific needs.

Hypersensitivity reactions to monoclonal antibodies: Classification and treatment approach (Review)

The present paper aims to review the topic of adverse reactions to biological agents, in terms of the incriminating mechanisms and therapeutic approach. As a result of immunomodulatory therapy, the last decade has achieved spectacular results in the targeted treatment of inflammatory, autoimmune, and neoplastic diseases, to name a few. The widespread use of biological agents is, however, associated with an increase in the number of observed adverse drug reactions ranging from local erythema to systemic reactions, including life-threatening immunologically mediated events, which justifies the need for a deeper understanding of this subject. Rapid desensitization to biological agents emerges as a treatment strategy for anaphylactic (immediate or delayed) hypersensitivity reactions as well as for severe infusion reactions. Drug desensitization is the administration of progressively increasing doses of the specific preparation until reaching the therapeutic dose in order to induce immunological tolerance and is indicated when the drugs are indispensable to the therapeutic regimen of individuals with hypersensitivity reactions to the preparation, with no reasonable alternatives.

Treatment of corticosteroid refractory immune checkpoint inhibitor myocarditis with Infliximab: a case series

Background

Glucocorticoid treatment remains the cornerstone of therapy for immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) myocarditis, but data supporting the use of additional immunotherapy for steroid refractory cases remains limited. We investigate the safety and efficacy of infliximab in patients with ICI myocarditis who are refractory to corticosteroids. Additionally, we highlight the importance of a multi-disciplinary approach in the care for these complex patients.

Methods

We retrospectively identified consecutive patients who developed ICI myocarditis at our institution between January 2017 and January 2020. Baseline characteristics, laboratory data and clinical outcomes were compared between patients who received infliximab and those who did not.

Results

Of a total of 11 patients who developed ICI myocarditis, 4 were treated with infliximab. Aside from age, there were no significant differences in baseline patient characteristics between the two groups including total number of ICI doses received and duration from initial ICI dose to onset of symptoms. The time to troponin normalization was 58 vs. 151.5 days (p = 0.25). The duration of prednisone taper was longer in the infliximab group (90 vs. 150 days p = 0.32). All patients survived initial hospital admission. Over a median follow-up period of 287 days, two of the 4 patients died from sepsis 2 and 3 months after initial treatment of their myocarditis; one of these patients was on a steroid taper and the other patient had just completed a steroid taper.

Conclusions

Infliximab, despite its black box warning in patients with heart failure, may be a safe and effective treatment for ICI myocarditis.

Infectious disease considerations in immunocompromised patients

Immunocompromised patients account for about 3% of the US population. Complications arising from infection are common in these patients and can present diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. This article describes the pathophysiology of immunosuppression in five common immunocompromised states-asplenia, HIV infection, solid organ transplant, biologic use, and cancer-as well as specific infectious risks and considerations for affected patients and how to manage them.

Analysis of MarketScan Data for Immunosuppressive Conditions and Hospitalizations for Acute Respiratory Illness, United States

Increasing use of immunosuppressive biologic therapies poses a challenge for infectious diseases. Immunosuppressed patients have a high risk for influenza complications and an impaired immune response to vaccines. The total burden of immunosuppressive conditions in the United States, including those receiving emerging biologic therapies, remains unknown. We used the national claims database MarketScan to estimate the prevalence of immunosuppressive conditions and risk for acute respiratory illnesses (ARIs). We studied 47.2 million unique enrollees, representing 115 million person-years of observation during 2012–2017, and identified immunosuppressive conditions in 6.2% adults 18–64 years of age and 2.6% of children <18 years of age. Among 542,105 ARI hospitalizations, 32% of patients had immunosuppressive conditions. The risk for ARI hospitalizations was higher among enrollees with immunosuppression than among nonimmunosuppressed enrollees. Future efforts should focus on developing improved strategies, including vaccines, for preventing influenza in immunosuppressed patients, who are an increasing population in the United States.

Immunomodulator use does not prevent first loss of response to anti-tumour necrosis factor alpha therapy in inflammatory bowel disease: long-term outcomes in a real-world cohort

BACKGROUND

Recent prospective studies suggest combination therapy with immunomodulators improves efficacy, but long-term data is limited.

AIM

To assess whether anti-tumour necrosis factor alpha (anti-TNF) monotherapy was associated with earlier loss of response (LOR) than combination therapy in a real-world cohort with long-term follow up.

METHODS

A retrospective audit was conducted of inflammatory bowel disease patients receiving anti-TNF therapy in a tertiary centre and specialist private practices. All patients with accurate data for anti-TNF commencement and adequate correspondence to determine end-points were included. Outcomes measured included time to first LOR, causes and biochemical parameters.

RESULTS

Two hundred and twenty-four patients were identified; 139 (62.1%) on combination therapy and 85 (37.9%) on monotherapy. Forty-five percent of patients had LOR during follow up until a maximum of 8.5 years; 59.4% on combination therapy and 40.6% on monotherapy (P = 0.533). The median time to LOR was not different between groups; 1069 days for combination therapy and 1489 days for monotherapy (P = 0.533). There was no difference in time to LOR between patients treated with different combination regimens or different anti-TNF agents.

CONCLUSION

In this large cohort of patients in a real-world setting, patients treated with anti-TNF monotherapy had similar rates of LOR as patients on anti-TNF combination therapy, at both short- and long-term follow up.

The immunosuppressed traveler: infection risks with autoimmunity and immunosuppression, vaccinations, and general travel advice

The travel-related infection risks in the significantly immunocompromised traveler are complex and comprise vaccine preventable, vector-borne, and other nonvaccine preventable infections. A thorough risk assessment should be performed before travel and advice sought from relevant specialists. Immunosuppression used to treat autoimmune diseases and their mechanisms of action need particular consideration.This risk assessment needs to take the patient's beliefs and preferences into account. It is also important not to neglect noninfectious travel considerations.

Early Lyme Borreliosis in Patients Treated with Tumour Necrosis Factor-Alfa Inhibitors

The study evaluated the course and outcome of erythema migrans in patients receiving tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) inhibitors. Among 4157 adults diagnosed with erythema migrans in the period 2009–2018, 16 (2.6%) patients were receiving TNF-α inhibitors (adalimumab, infliximab, etarnecept, golimumab), often in combination with other immunosuppressants, for rheumatic (13 patients) or inflammatory bowel (three patients) disease. Findings in this group were compared with those in 32 sex- and age-matched immunocompetent patients diagnosed with erythema migrans in the same years. In comparison with the control group, the immunocompromised patients had a shorter incubation period (7 vs. 14 days; p = 0.0153), smaller diameter of erythema migrans (10.5 vs. 15.5 cm; p = 0.0014), and more frequent comorbidities other than immune-mediated diseases (62.5% vs. 25%, p = 0.0269), symptoms/signs of disseminated Lyme borreliosis (18.8% vs. 0%, p = 0.0324), and treatment failure (25% vs. 0%, p = 0.0094). After retreatment with an antibiotic, the clinical course of Lyme borreliosis resolved. Continuing TNF inhibitor treatment during concomitant borrelial infection while using identical approaches for antibiotic treatment as in immunocompetent patients resulted in more frequent failure of erythema migrans treatment in patients receiving TNF inhibitors. However, the majority of treatment failures were mild, and the course and outcome of Lyme borreliosis after retreatment with antibiotics was favourable.

Osteonecrosis and osteomyelitis of the jaw associated with tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) inhibitors: a systematic review

Tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) inhibitors are increasingly being used as immunomodulators to manage inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and Crohn's disease. Reported serious side effects include an increased incidence of lymphoma and greater susceptibility to infections such as tuberculosis. The aim of this systematic review was to find out whether there is an associated risk of medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ). Three authors independently searched PubMed, MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials for published reports of oral osteonecrosis (ONJ) or osteomyelitis (OM) in patients who took anti TNF-α drugs and had no history of antiangiogenic agents or antiresorptive treatment. All types of studies on humans treated with TNF-α inhibitors were considered. Only six were eligible for analysis, and all were independently assessed for risk of bias. They included six patients with ONJ or OM that was attributed solely to TNF-α inhibitors. The most common site of ONJ was the posterior mandible (n=5). The mean (SD) duration of anti-TNF-α treatment before the development of bony lesions was 62.5 (47.4) months. Invasive surgery was reported as a precipitating factor in five cases, and the ONJ/OM resolved with conservative management in five. Although all the studies were judged to be at high risk of bias, the limited data suggest that some patients will potentially develop ONJ/OM as a result of treatment with TNF-α inhibitors. Studies of higher quality are now needed to establish the relative risk of MRONJ in patients who take them.

A new side of sarcoidosis: medication and hospitalization use in a privately insured patient population

OBJECTIVE

This study describes patterns of medication prescriptions for sarcoidosis patients in a large commercially insured U.S. population, with specific focus on prescribing practices across medical specialties and their associated hospitalization risk.

METHODS

Using the Marketscan Database we selected adult patients with a diagnosis of sarcoidosis by ICD-9 code during the 2012 calendar year. Differences in prescribing practices were evaluated between provider types. A multivariate model controlling for age, sex, and region assessed hospitalization risk associated with provider type, prednisone dose, and use of non-steroid sarcoidosis medications.

RESULTS

Using the described criteria, 11,042 total patients were identified. A majority were female, mean age 49.3 years. Of these, 1,792 (16.2%) had one or more hospital admissions (mean 1.6, SD 1.3) with a mean length of stay of 8.1 days (SD 14.5). 25.5% of patients were prescribed prednisone with a 1 year mean cumulative dose of 250mg. Pulmonary/Rheumatology providers prescribed the highest cumulative prednisone dose (961 mg) and were more likely to prescribe methotrexate and monoclonal antibody medications. Sarcoidosis patients receiving a cumulative prednisone dose >500 mg had an increased risk for hospitalization (OR 2.512, 2.210-2.855), while those prescribed methotrexate and azathioprine had decreased risk (OR 0.633, 0.481-0.833 and 0.460, 0.315-0.671). Monoclonal antibody use was associated with increased OR for hospitalization at 1.359.

CONCLUSION

Sarcoidosis patients treated by subspecialists were more likely to receive higher doses of prednisone and non-steroid sarcoidosis medications. Higher doses of prednisone and monoclonal antibody use were associated with higher hospitalization risk while methotrexate and azathioprine were associated with lower hospitalization risk.

A case report of severe recurrent varicella in an ankylosing spondylitis patient treated with adalimumab - a new side effect after 15 years of usage

Background

Tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) antagonists, most of which are monoclonal antibodies, became a widespread treatment for autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, inflammatory bowel diseases, psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, hidradenitis suppurativa and uveitis. Their use is based on the blockage of TNF-α, which plays an important role in granulomas formation, development of phagosomes, activation and differentiation of macrophages, immune response against viral pathogens. The multiple adverse effects of TNF-α inhibition have been identified, including a two-to four-fold increased risk of active tuberculosis and other granulomatous conditions and an increased occurrence of some other serious bacterial, fungal and certain viral infections.

Case presentation

A 34-year-old male patient with disseminated varicella and pneumonitis was admitted to our hospital. The diagnosis of varicella was established serologically by enzyme immunoassay (EIA) and by polymerase chain reaction confirmation of the virus in vesicular fluid. The patient has been receiving adalimumab and methotrexate for the last 3 years due to ankylosing spondylitis and was seropositive to varicella zoster virus prior to the introduction of TNF-α antagonists. Acyclovir was administered for 10 days with the resolution of clinical illness and radiological signs of pneumonitis.

Conclusion

Due to the use of biological agents, particularly TNF-α inhibitors, as a well-established therapy for some autoimmune diseases, new potential adverse events can be expected in the future and we wanted to point out one of them. To our knowledge this is the first case of recurrent disseminated varicella in a patient taking TNF-α antagonists.

Personalization of biologic therapy in patients with rheumatoid arthritis: less frequently accounted choice-driving variables

Objective

To propose appropriate statements that drive the choice of biologic therapies in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), factoring in their impact on the following issues: anti-drug antibody (ADAb) formation, suspicion and management of infections, lupus-like syndrome (LLS), effects on bone mass and sexual sphere, and relationship between RA and periodontal disease (PD).

Methods

An overview of existing evidence was undertaken by an expert panel on behalf of the Italian board for the TAilored BIOlogic therapy (ITABIO). Data were extracted from controlled trials, national registries, national health care databases, post-marketing surveys, and, when required by the paucity of controlled studies, from open-label clinical series. Anti-tumor necrosis factor (anti-TNF) and non-anti-TNF-targeted biologics approved for RA were investigated.

Results

ADAb formation is chiefly associated with anti-TNFs, and it is reduced by combination therapy with methotrexate. To date, ADAb titration is not advisable for clinical practice, and, in case of anti-TNF secondary failure, a non-anti-TNF biologic is indicated. LLS is observed in anti-TNF receivers and, in most cases, resolves without anti-TNF withdrawal. A non-anti-TNF biologic is advisable in patients experiencing LLS. Non-anti-TNFs demonstrated a low or absent infection risk and are preferable in patients with comorbidities. Due to their positive effects on bone mass, anti-TNFs are indicated in women at osteoporosis risk, whereas non-anti-TNF have been poorly investigated. The emerging evidence of the relationship between RA and PD and the effects on anti-TNF efficacy should lead clinicians to consider the periodontal status in RA patients. Anti-TNFs may exert a positive effect on fertility and sexuality, and clinicians should explore these aspects in RA patients.

Conclusion

The optimization of biologic therapies by taking into proper account the above issues would improve patient outcomes.

A National Survey of the Prevalence and Impact of Cytomegalovirus Infection Among Hospitalized Patients With Ulcerative Colitis

GOALS

To estimate the effect of cytomegalovirus (CMV) in patients with ulcerative colitis (UC), and compare these outcomes to patients with CMV without UC.

BACKGROUND

The impact of CMV infection in UC is not well understood.

STUDY

We analyzed records from the Nationwide Inpatient Sample (NIS) of patients with UC and CMV between 2006 and 2012. Differences in outcomes were determined between patients with UC and CMV and those with UC without CMV. Secondary analysis compared outcomes of patients with UC and CMV to patients with CMV alone.

RESULTS

Patients with UC and CMV (n=145) had longer length of stay (16.31 vs. 5.52 d, P<0.0001), higher total charges ($111,835.50 vs. $39.895, P=0.001), and were less likely to be discharged home without services (50.0% vs. 81.83%, P<0.0001) compared with patients with UC without CMV (n=32,290). On regression analysis, CMV was significantly associated with higher total charges (P<0.01) and longer length of stay (P<0.01), but not for increased need for colorectal surgery. When comparing patients with UC and CMV to patients with CMV alone (n=14,960), patients with CMV alone had a higher Charlson Comorbidity Index and a trend toward higher in-hospital mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

CMV infection in hospitalized patients with UC is associated with a longer length of stay, increased total charges, and fewer routine discharges, but not increased surgery or mortality. Patients with CMV alone had the worst outcomes of all groups suggesting that CMV in UC patients may not have the same negative impact as in other diseases.

Infectious tenosynovitis with bloodstream infection caused by Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae, a case report on an occupational pathogen

Background

Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae is an established animal pathogen, which may cause infections in humans. It is a gram-positive rod and found in the tonsils or the digestive tracts of animals. The bacterium is occupationally related, as usually only people with frequent animal contacts are infected. We report a case of a patient who was admitted with an infectious tenosynovitis with bloodstream infection due to E. rhusiopathiae, and to our knowledge, this is the first report of a tenosynovitis with systemic manifestation associated with this bacterium.

Case presentation

A 52-year old Norwegian man, who worked with transportation of swine cadavers, was admitted to the local hospital with sepsis and unknown focus of infection. A few days earlier he had an injury to the skin of one of his fingers that later proved to be infected with E. rhusiopathiae. There were no other causes for his symptoms than the infectious tenosynovitis with systemic manifestation. The infection resolved on treatment with antibiotics and surgery. A transoesophageal echocardiogram was performed to exclude endocarditis, which may be associated with this pathogen.

Conclusions

This case report highlights the importance of clinicians being aware of this bacterium, and we describe risk factors for infection, differences in the clinical manifestations of the disease, challenges with diagnosing the bacterium and adverse effects of immunosuppressive drugs. Recommended treatment is appropriate antibiotic therapy and adequate debridement and surgical drainage of the tendon sheath.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12879-016-2102-1) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Multifocal Colonic Wall Abscesses during Anti-Tumor Necrosis Factor (TNF)-α Therapy for a Patient with Ulcerative Colitis: A Very Rare Manifestation of Infectious Complications

A 24-year-old woman was transferred to our hospital under suspicion of an exacerbation of her known ulcerative colitis. Colonoscopy revealed an edematous swelling and multifocal discharge of pus throughout the descending colon, concurrent with active ulcerative colitis findings in the rectum and sigmoid colon. Computed tomography showed a thickened wall and multifocal abscesses within the wall of the descending colon. Two weeks after starting antimicrobial therapy, she was discharged home. This is the first case report of multifocal colonic wall abscesses. In order not to increase the risk of serious infection associated with anti-TNF-α therapy, proper qualification and strict monitoring are essential.

NASPGHAN Clinical Report: Surveillance, Diagnosis, and Prevention of Infectious Diseases in Pediatric Patients With Inflammatory Bowel Disease Receiving Tumor Necrosis Factor-α Inhibitors

Children and adolescents with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) receiving therapy with tumor necrosis factor α inhibitors (anti-TNFα) pose a unique challenge to health care providers in regard to the associated risk of infection. Published experience in adult populations with distinct autoinflammatory and autoimmune diseases treated with anti-TNFα therapies demonstrates an increased risk of serious infections with intracellular bacteria, mycobacteria, fungi, and some viruses; however, there is a paucity of robust pediatric data. With a rising incidence of pediatric IBD and increasing use of biologic therapies, heightened knowledge and awareness of infections in this population is important for primary care pediatricians, pediatric gastroenterologists, and infectious disease (ID) physicians. This clinical report is the result of a consensus review performed by pediatric ID and gastroenterology physicians detailing relevant published literature regarding infections in pediatric patients with IBD receiving anti-TNFα therapies. The objective of this document is to provide comprehensive information for prevention, surveillance, and diagnosis of infections based on current knowledge, until additional pediatric data are available to inform evidence-based recommendations.

Infectious Complications and Vaccinations in the Posttransplant Population

Infections remain a major cause of mortality and morbidity after both kidney and liver transplantation, and internists increasingly play a major role in diagnosing and treating these infections. Because of immunosuppression, solid organ transplant recipients do not often demonstrate classic signs and symptoms of infection and have a broader variety of common and opportunistic infections, many of which are generally more difficult to diagnose and treat. Although these patients have many risk factors for infection, a major determinant is the time after transplant as it relates to levels of immunosuppression, healing, and hospital or environmental exposures.

In vivo effect of anti-TNF agent (etanercept) in reactivation of latent toxoplasmosis

Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii), an intracellular parasite, establishes a chronic infection by forming cysts preferentially in the brain. TNF-α plays an important role in controlling the infection caused by this protozoan. Thus, the blockade of TNF-α could cause reactivation of latent toxoplasmosis infection as well as increase the risk of acute toxoplasmosis. This study evaluated the effect of etanercept, a TNF-α antagonist in reactivation of latent toxoplasmosis compared to the therapeutic effect of sulfadiazine and pyrimethamine in combination on the progress of the disease. A total of 40 laboratory-bred Swiss albino mice were infected with Me49 strain of T. gondii and divided into four groups: infected control group; treated group with sulfadiazine and pyrimethamine; treated group with etanercept and treated group with both etanercept and sulfadiazine and pyrimethamine. The mean number and size of tissue cysts in brain smears of mice of each group were determined and also, serum levels of TNF-α were assessed in different study groups by an enzyme linked immunosorbent assay. The results showed that the mean TNF-α level was significantly different in the treated groups compared to that in infected control group. The highest level of TNF-α was found in the infected controls. After treatment with etanercept alone or combined with sulfadiazine and pyrimethamine, it was significantly decreased. In this study, reactivation of latent toxoplasmosis was observed by a significant increase in the mean number and sizes of Toxoplasma tissue cysts in brains of mice with established chronic toxoplasmosis after treatment with etanercept alone or combined with conventional treatment compared to both untreated chronically infected controls and infected mice treated with sulfadiazine and pyrimethamine. It was concluded that etanercept, a TNF-α antagonist may play a role in reactivation of latent toxoplasmosis. So, serological screening for toxoplasmosis might offer a valuable aid for patients treated with this drug.

Screening and Monitoring for Infectious Complications When Immunosuppressive Agents Are Studied in the Treatment of Autoimmune Disorders

Significant progress has been made in the development, investigation, and clinical application of immunosuppressive agents to treat a variety of autoimmune disorders. The expansion of clinical applications of these new agents requires the performance of large multicenter clinical trials. These large clinical trials are particularly important as one considers these agents for the treatment of type 1 diabetes, which although autoimmune in its pathogenesis, is not classically treated as an autoimmune disorder. Although these agents hold promise for amelioration or cure of this disease, they have the potential to facilitate infectious complications. There are limited data regarding the prospective assessment of infectious risks with these agents in trials of this nature. Pediatric subjects may be at greater risk due to the higher likelihood of primary infection. A subgroup of experts associated with TrialNet (a National Institutes of Health [NIH]-funded Type 1 diabetes mellitus research network) with expertise in infectious diseases, immunology, and diagnostics developed an approach for screening and monitoring of immunosuppression-associated infections for prospective use in clinical trials. The goals of these recommendations are to provide a structured approach to monitor for infections, to identify specific laboratory testing and surveillance methods, and to consider therapies for treatment of these potential complications. Prospective evaluations of these infectious risks allow for greater scientific rigor in the evaluation of risk, which must be balanced with the potential benefits of these therapies. Our experience supports an important role for investigators with expertise in infections in immunocompromised individuals in protocol development of immunosuppressive trials in type 1diabetes and potentially other autoimmune diseases.

Tumor necrosis factor inhibitor-induced serositis

A 46-year-old man with a history of asthma and psoriatic arthritis on adalimumab presented with fever, tachycardia, and hypoxia. He was diagnosed with pleural effusion and started on antibiotics, as it was noted to be an exudative effusion. Patient failed to improve on multiple courses of antibiotics, and his blood and pleural fluid cultures were negative. He was then started on prednisone 1 mg/kg and showed remarkable recovery. He was diagnosed with adalimumab-induced serositis.

Septic arthritis in immunocompetent and immunosuppressed hosts

Septic arthritis has long been considered an orthopedic emergency. Historically, Neisseria gonorrhoeae and Staphylococcus aureus have been the most common causes of septic arthritis worldwide but in the modern era of biological therapy and extensive use of prosthetic joint replacements, the spectrum of microbiological causes of septic arthritis has widened considerably. There are also new approaches to diagnosis but therapy remains a challenge, with a need for careful consideration of a combined medical and surgical approach in most cases.

The role of integrin antagonists in the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease

INTRODUCTION

Ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn's disease are chronic inflammatory diseases of the bowel associated with complex inflammatory cascades within the mucosal lining of the gut.

AREAS COVERED

INTEGRINS and their use as therapies in UC and Crohn's.

EXPERT OPINION

The anti-adhesion molecules are a welcome addition to the armamentarium of medical therapies for inflammatory bowel disease.

Histological characteristics of the abdominal aortic wall in patients with vascular chronic Q fever

The aim of this study was to describe specific histological findings of the Coxiella burnetii-infected aneurysmal abdominal aortic wall. Tissue samples of the aneurysmal abdominal aortic wall from seven patients with chronic Q fever and 15 patients without evidence of Q fever infection were analysed and compared. Chronic Q fever was diagnosed using serology and tissue PCR analysis. Histological sections were stained using haematoxylin and eosin staining, Elastica van Gieson staining and immunohistochemical staining for macrophages (CD68), T lymphocytes (CD3), T lymphocyte subsets (CD4 and CD8) and B lymphocytes (CD20). Samples were scored by one pathologist, blinded for Q fever status, using a standard score form. Seven tissue samples from patients with chronic Q fever and 15 tissue samples from patients without Q fever were collected. Four of seven chronic Q fever samples showed a necrotizing granulomatous response of the vascular wall, which was characterized by necrotic core of the arteriosclerotic plaque (P = 0.005) and a presence of high numbers of macrophages in the adventitia (P = 0.007) distributed in typical palisading formation (P = 0.005) and surrounded by the presence of high numbers of T lymphocytes located diffusely in media and adventitia. Necrotizing granulomas are a histological finding in the C. burnetii-infected aneurysmal abdominal aortic wall. Chronic Q fever should be included in the list of infectious diseases with necrotizing granulomatous response, such as tuberculosis, cat scratch disease and syphilis.

Cutaneous Cryptococcoma in a Patient on TNF-α Inhibition

An 87-year old Caucasian male with past medical history of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and chronic kidney disease presents with left hand erythema, pain, tenderness, induration and edema. Clinically, these hand findings began proximal to the metacarpo-phalangeal joints and extended to the distal wrist. He was noted to have ipsilateral axillary lymph node enlargement but denied any constitutional signs or symptoms. Laboratory markers of inflammation were poor prognostic indicators due to relatively active RA, the use of chronic daily glucocorticoids and weekly adalimumab use. Oral antibiotics were administered with limited success leading to a skin biopsy which reported a hematogenously disseminated fungal panniculitis; cultures grew Cryptococcusneoformans, however, serum cryptococcal antigen was negative. With initial fluconazole treatment, skin findings and lymphadenopathy improved gradually over the next six months. However, the patient’s improvement stagnated and his condition reverted back to the state of initial presentation.

Clinical use of anti-TNF therapy and increased risk of infections

Biologics such as antitumor necrosis factor (anti-TNF) drugs have emerged as important agents in the treatment of many chronic inflammatory diseases, especially in cases refractory to conventional treatment modalities. However, opportunistic infections have become a major safety concern in patients on anti-TNF therapy, and physicians who utilize these agents must understand the increased risks of infection. A literature review of the published data on the risk of bacterial, viral, fungal, and parasitic infections associated with anti-TNF therapy was performed and the clinical presentation, diagnostic tests, management, and prevention of opportunistic infections in patients receiving anti-TNF therapy were reviewed. Awareness of the therapeutic potential and associated adverse events is necessary for maximizing therapeutic benefits while minimizing adverse effects from anti-TNF treatments. Patients should be adequately vaccinated when possible and closely monitored for early signs of infection. When serious infections occur, withdrawal of anti-TNF therapy may be necessary until the infection has been identified and properly treated.