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Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia in a patient on etanercept for psoriatic arthritis

  • Case Report
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Abstract

Background

Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia (PCP) is a rare form of pneumonia associated with immune-suppression. It is common in patients with AIDS and with a CD4 count of less than 200 cells/mm3. We report a case of PCP secondary to immune-suppression in a 41-year-old man with psoriatic arthritis being treated with the immune-modulatory agent etanercept.

Methods

Diagnosis of PCP was made histologically using tissue obtained via transbronchial biopsy.

Results

There was a good response to standard treatment with high-dose co-trimoxazole.

Conclusion

This report highlights a recognised but previously unreported complication of etanercept.

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Correspondence to G. A. Chadwick.

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Lahiff, C., Khiaron, O.B., Nolan, N. et al. Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia in a patient on etanercept for psoriatic arthritis. Ir J Med Sci 176, 309–311 (2007). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11845-007-0087-x

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11845-007-0087-x

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