Lymphomatoid papulosis in a patient treated with adalimumab for juvenile rheumatoid arthritis

Abstract

Anti-tumor necrosis factor (TNF) agents are now well regarded as highly effective treatment modalities for multiple immunologically mediated diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn's disease and psoriasis. The mechanism of action for this particular class of medications involves the blockade of multiple intracellular signaling pathways originating from TNF-α, ultimately inducing a generalized immunosuppressed state. In fact, several cases of lymphomas have been reported in patients treated with anti-TNF-α agents, though it has been difficult to prove any degree of causality. Herein, we described a patient who developed lymphomatoid papulosis after being treated with adalimumab, whereby a clear causality could be established.