Sarcoidosis-like reaction secondary to adalimumab treatment in a patient with axial spondyloarthritis

Submitted: June 1, 2022
Accepted: June 23, 2022
Published: July 4, 2022
Abstract Views: 809
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Anti-TNF agents, namely adalimumab, are safe drugs that represent an important arsenal in the treatment of immune-mediated inflammatory diseases. “Paradoxical effects” have been described with their use. A sarcoidosis “like” reaction induced by these agents is rare and is characterized by a systemic granulomatous reaction indistinguishable from sarcoidosis. We present a 55-year-old male patient, with axial spondyloarthritis, treated with with adalimumab. About 17 months under this therapy, he complained of dry cough and wheezing. Chest CT showed a peri-lymphatic and pericisural micronodular pattern and hilo-mediastinal lymph nodes, suggestive of sarcoidosis. Angiotensin converting enzyme was increased. Assuming the hypothesis of a sarcoidosis-like reaction secondary to adalimumab this therapy was discontinued with progressive improvement in the patient's complaints and in the radiological changes.

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How to Cite

Gonçalves Pimenta, Diana Alexandra, Leonor Meira, Rui Rolo, and Lurdes Ferreira. 2022. “Sarcoidosis-Like Reaction Secondary to Adalimumab Treatment in a Patient With Axial Spondyloarthritis”. Monaldi Archives for Chest Disease 93 (1). https://doi.org/10.4081/monaldi.2022.2343.