Differences Between Anti-Tumor Necrosis Factor-a Monoclonal Antibodies and Soluble TNF Receptors in Host Defense Impairment

CHARLES A. DINARELLO

ABSTRACT.

This review examines the differences in the incidence, spectrum, and mechanisms of activation of opportunistic infections, such as Mycobacterium tuberculosis, in patients with rheumatic diseases treated with the soluble TNF p75 receptor etanercept compared to the 2 anti-TNF-a monoclonal antibodies, infliximab and adalimumab. (J Rheumatol 2005;32 Suppl 74:40-47)

Key Indexing Terms:

TUMOR NECROSIS FACTOR
INFECTION
MYCOBACTERIUM TUBERCULOSIS
ETANERCEPT
INFLIXIMAB
RHEUMATIC DISEASES
ADALIMUMAB

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From the Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, Denver, Colorado, USA.

Supported by US National Institutes of Health grants AI-15614 (CAD) and HL-68743 (CAD) and the Colorado Cancer Center.

Dr. Dinarello serves on the speakers' bureau for Amgen.

C.A. Dinarello, MD.

Address reprint requests to Dr. C.A. Dinarello, University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, 4200 East Ninth Ave., B168, Denver, CO 80262.

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