Infliximab in Takayasu arteritis: a safe alternative?

Abstract

OBJECTIVE:

To test the efficacy of Infliximab, a chimeric monoclonal antibody against TNF-alpha, in the treatment of Takayasu arteritis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

We used infliximab at an initial dose of 3 mg/kg i.v. at weeks 0, 2, 6, and 8 thereafter in combination with methotrexate or azathioprine, to treat four patients with Takayasu arteritis.

RESULTS:

Three out of four patients responded to infliximab treatment, while two of them retained the response during a two-year follow up. A higher dose regimen (5 mg/kg), however, was eventually warranted for two of the responders. No major side effects were noted.

CONCLUSIONS:

Infliximab might be an effective and safe alternative for patients with Takayasu arteritis.

• Authors: Zaharenia Th Karageorgaki, Clio P Mavragani, Matthilde A Papathanasiou, Fotini N Skopouli
• Journal: Clinical rheumatology (Clin Rheumatol) Vol. 26 Issue 6 Pg. 984-7 (Jun 2007) ISSN: 0770-3198 [Print] Germany
• PMID: 16633710 (Publication Type: Clinical Trial, Journal Article)

Chemical References

• Antibodies, Monoclonal
• Antirheumatic Agents
• Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha
• Infliximab

Topics

• Adolescent
• Adult
• Antibodies, Monoclonal (adverse effects, therapeutic use)
• Antirheumatic Agents (adverse effects, therapeutic use)
• Female
• Follow-Up Studies
• Humans
• Infliximab
• Takayasu Arteritis (drug therapy)
• Treatment Outcome
• Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha (adverse effects, antagonists & inhibitors)