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.