Clinical and histological features of lupus nephritis induced by anti-TNFα therapy

It is known that anti-TNFα therapy has opened a new era in treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, and it is emerging as a new successful treatment in the current rheumatologic practice. Besides, there is evidence that this therapy is an important cause of iatrogenic autoimmune disease. Several studies reported the possible onset of lupus syndrome that can be resolved with withdrawal of anti-TNFα drugs. Our report describes the first lupus nephritis case developing in a rapidly progressive renal failure that required haemodialysis treatment in a patient affected with rheumatoid arthritis, treated with anti-TNFα therapy. So, we confirm the importance of a careful clinic and immunologic evaluation before starting anti-TNFα therapy.