New onset of articular inflammatory manifestations in patients with hidradenitis suppurativa under treatment with infliximab

Abstract

Objectives: Severe hidradenitis suppurativa (HS), under infliximab, can be associated with different forms of arthritis whose mechanism is unclear. Our objective is to establish the frequency and clinical presentation of new-onset arthritis in HS under infliximab.

Methods: Severe HS patients under infliximab were followed up between 2007-2012. New articular inflammatory manifestations were investigated by rheumatologist.

Results: Three patients over eleven developed a polyarthritis. Mean duration of arthritis was 3 months. At treatment's stop: 2 patients improved and 1 relieved with adalimumab.

Conclusion: The inflammatory rheumatism's frequency in HS under infliximab seems underestimated.

Keywords: Hidradenitis suppurativa; Infliximab; Paradoxical reaction; Spondyloarthritis.