| Title | The implications of anti-tumour necrosis factor therapy for viral infection in patients with inflammatory bowel disease. | | Author(s) | Shale MJ | | Institution | Gastrointestinal Section, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital Campus, Du Cane Road, London W12 0NN, UK. | | Source | Br Med Bull 2009 Oct 24. | | Abstract | Introduction Anti-tumour necrosis factor (TNF) therapy is increasingly used in the management of inflammatory bowel disease; however, concerns have been raised regarding risk of infection with such drugs. Little is known about their effect upon viral infection. Sources of data A search of PubMed using the terms 'infliximab', 'etanercept', 'adalimumab' or 'anti-TNF therapy' combined with the names of specific viruses was performed. A search of cited papers was used to identify further relevant reports. Areas of agreement Numerous reports of the use of anti-TNF in patients with chronic or latent viral infection appear in the literature. Specific problems related to hepatitis B virus and varicella zoster virus may exist. The safety profile of anti-TNF in chronic viral infection is generally reassuring. Areas of controversy Numerous consensus statements relating to pre-treatment serology or vaccination have recently appeared; however, significant variation exists in their recommendations. Growing points Increasing awareness of the implications of anti-TNF therapy on viral infection may allow safer use of such drugs. Areas timely for developing research The clinical and cost-effectiveness of screening for viral infections prior to anti-TNF requires further study. | | Language | ENG | | Pub Type(s) | JOURNAL ARTICLE
| | PubMed ID | 19855102 |
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