24 Jul 2023 • Tumor necrosis factor inhibitors (anti-TNF) are effective treatments for various immune-mediated inflammatory diseases(IMIDs). However, there have been reports of IMIDs occurring paradoxically in patients treated with anti-TNF.

• The study involved a total of 18,258 IBD patients in Denmark and 88,786 in France, with a combined follow-up period of 516,055 person-years.
• The researchers found that anti-TNF therapy was associated with an increased risk of rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, and hidradenitis suppurativa in both cohorts. - The pooled hazard ratio for the association between anti-TNF exposure and IMIDs was 1.76.
• Furthermore, when compared to azathioprine monotherapy, anti-TNF was still associated with a higher risk of these outcomes (pooled HR 2.94).

In conclusion, the study suggests that anti-TNF therapy may be linked to an increased risk of rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, and hidradenitis suppurativa in patients with IBD. These findings highlight the importance of monitoring and managing potential adverse effects of anti-TNF treatment in patients with IMIDs.

Source: AGA | Read full story