Safety of Anti-TNF Therapies in Immune-Mediated Inflammatory Diseases: Focus on Infections and Malignancy

The efficacy of anti-TNF agents in the treatment of multiple immune-mediated inflammatory diseases (IMIDs) has increased their daily use. However, concerns remain regarding their long-term safety profile. Using a literature-based review of the infectious and malignant complications of anti-TNF biologics in IMIDs including psoriasis, Rheumatoid Arthritis, and inflammatory bowel disease, this review presents current evidence relative to the safety of anti-TNF agents in the context infections and malignancy in adults with IMIDs. Treatment with anti-TNF biologics is an effective treatment option with known risks that can be mitigated by appreciating the safety aspects and via a thorough screening and continuous monitoring of the patient. (C) 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.