Histoplasmosis and TNF-α Blocker Therapy

In a retrospective review of 98 patients, most were able to safely restart tumor necrosis factor–α blockers after successful treatment for histoplasmosis.

Although agents that block the activity of tumor necrosis factor–α (TNF-α blockers) improve the quality of life in individuals with autoimmune diseases, they may also lead to infection. Reports suggest an increased incidence of histoplasmosis in patients receiving these agents, but many uncertainties remain.

To explore these issues, researchers retrospectively reviewed data on 98 patients who developed histoplasmosis while on TNF-α blockers. Their infections were diagnosed between January 2000 and June 2011 at any of 20 U.S. medical centers.

Histoplasma antigen was detected in 88% of those tested; higher levels were observed in patients with disseminated disease than in those with pulmonary infection alone (P=0.008). All but one patient recei…

Reviewing Author

Neil M. Ampel, MD

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Editorial BoardsUpToDate

Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesCoccidioidomycosis Study Group (Past President, Secretary, Treasurer)

Neil M. Ampel, MD

Disclosures

Editorial BoardsUpToDate

Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesCoccidioidomycosis Study Group (Past President, Secretary, Treasurer)

Histoplasmosis and TNF-α Blocker Therapy

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Reviewing Author