Infliximab in Takayasu arteritis: a safe alternative?

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.