Infectious complications of immunosuppressive therapy in patients with rheumatic diseases

Infection continues to be a major cause of morbidity and mortality in patients with rheumatic diseases. The recognition and treatment of infections in these patients is a particularly difficult task because the spectrum of potential pathogens is broad and the clinical manifestations of infection often mimic those of the underlying rheumatic disease. This article presents a general overview of the immunosuppressive properties of agents commonly used in the treatment of rheumatic diseases and focuses on specific pathogens associated with different immunosuppressive regimens. Also provided is a framework for the diagnostic evaluation and treatment of various infectious syndromes in patients with rheumatic diseases.