RISK OF DEVELOPING ACTIVE TB IN IBD PATIENTS TREATED WITH ATNI-TNF

Abstract

AIM. To develop an investigation complex for IBD-patients with the anti-TNF therapy to decrease the risk of active TB. METHODS. In Moscow Research and Clinical Center for TB Control 454 patients with IBD were screened prior to initiation of anti-TNF treatment and 167 (36,8%) of them - during the anti-TNF therapy. Tuberculin skin test (TST) and chest radiography were used for screening and evaluation of pulmonary adverse effects (every 6 months and additionally in cases of any respiratory signs). RESULTS. Of 454 patients investigated during screening X-ray, chest radiography findings were detected in 29 (6,4%), which required additional investigation, among them in 14 patients, findings considered as residual TB lesions. In the other 15 patients, the radiographic findings caused by previous non-specific pulmonary infections. Positive TST implicates preventive antituberculosis therapy, which was provided 37 patients (before and under anti-TNF therapy). During provided to 167 patients the anti-TNF therapy, were developed pulmonary adverse effects: 10 incidences of active TB lung infection 3 case of sarcoidosis, 1 case of fibrosing alveolitis, and two case of non-CONCLUSION. The patients with IBD, treated by anti-TNF therapy, have a risk of development of a wide variety of infectious and non-infectious pulmonary complications, including TB. It is therefore highly important to carefully monitor the patients prior and during the anti-TNF therapy (every 6 months) for a timely detection of pulmonary conditions potentially associated with the treatment.