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Infliximab

Tuberculosis Associated with Infliximab, a TNF–Neutralizing Agent – (10-18-01)

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Tuberculosis Associated with Infliximab, a TNF–Neutralizing Agent

It’s always interesting to see articles come out in different journals that all seem to revolve around a common theme. In this case, we see that the new “wonder drug” for Crohn’s and RA may have some severe side effects. I could accept these side effects in some patient if there were no alternative. However, with many autoimmune diseases, there are many options such as elimination diets, fasting and oral tolerance that can help control the disease.

NEJM — Abstracts: Keane et al. 345 (15): 1098

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Cutaneous Disorders in Crohn’s Disease Respond to Infliximab – (08-13-01)

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Cutaneous Disorders in Crohn’s Disease Respond to Infliximab

This article supports things I’ve said for awhile now. Many chronic autoimmune conditions may actually come from the same basic metabolic defect, and that the ultimate manifestation of a certain disease is just a branch along the changes caused by the original defect. We are now seeing a drug (infliximab, a drug that blocks TNF alpha from doing it’s job) that is having an effect of rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn’s disease and now several autoimmune skin disorders as well. Before we get too excited here that the answer has been found, remember that TNF alpha is needed for healthy immune function and cancer prevention. I am sure that the long term use of these drugs will produce higher rates of certain types of cancer. Lowering levels of TNF naturally included weight loss, maintaining insulin sensitivity and leaning towards a plant based diet. Improvement of Pyoderma Gangrenosum and Psoriasis Associated With Crohn Disease With Anti-Tumor Necrosis Factor alpha Monocl

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Short term benefits to blocking a major player in the body’s immune response – (02-11-02)

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Repeated infliximab, a chimeric anti-TNF alpha, in spondyloarthropathy

While there are definite short term benefits to blocking a major player in the body’s immune response, I am very concerned with the long term dangers. With this therapy, we are blocking the cytokine that maintains vigilance against cancer cells and invaders. Of additional concern in this study is that, after each infusion, more and more patients had recurrences. In addition, anti-DNA antibodies were noted in 57% of patients. These antibodies attack our own DNA.

Ann Rheum Dis — Abstracts: Kruithof et al. 61 (3): 207

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