Macrophage activation syndrome in a patient with axial spondyloarthritis on adalimumab

Clin Rheumatol. 2019 Feb;38(2):603-608. doi: 10.1007/s10067-018-4387-5. Epub 2018 Dec 7.

Abstract

Macrophage activation syndrome (MAS) is a rare and potentially fatal condition characterized by excessive activation and uncontrolled proliferation of T lymphocytes and macrophages, leading to overwhelming systemic inflammation and cytokine release. MAS has been reported with viral infections, autoimmune disorders, malignancies, and medications. We describe a case of a patient with axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) treated with adalimumab, who presented with MAS.

Keywords: Adalimumab; Axial spondylitis; Fever; Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis; Macrophage activation syndrome.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Letter
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adalimumab / therapeutic use*
  • Adult
  • Cytokines / metabolism
  • Humans
  • Macrophage Activation Syndrome / diagnosis*
  • Macrophage Activation Syndrome / drug therapy*
  • Macrophages / immunology
  • Male
  • Spondylarthritis / complications*
  • T-Lymphocytes / immunology

Substances

  • Cytokines
  • Adalimumab