TNF-blocker drugs may boost tuberculosis risk

(HealthScout) UPDATED 2009-07-12

New research published in the journal Arthritis & Rheumatism suggests that the anti-TNF drugs used to treat rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn's disease, psoriasis, and other autoimmune conditions may increase patients' risk of developing tuberculosis (TB). In the study, scientists analyzed all French cases of TB in patients receiving anti-TNF drugs such as Enbrel, Remicade, and Humira during a three-year period. They found that patients who received these drugs had a higher risk for TB. Most of the TB cases involved reactivation of a latent TB infection, the researchers said. Investigators say their finding suggests that healthcare professionals should screen patients for latent TB before starting any anti-TNF therapy. Read full story >

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Related: Enbrel, Humira, Remicade