Immune mediated ‘HAART’ attack during treatment for tuberculosis [Case Study]
Authors: D.Y. Kunimoto1; L. Chui2; E. Nobert3; S. Houston3
Source: The International Journal of Tuberculosis and Lung Disease, Volume 3, Number 10, October 1999 , pp. 944-947(4)
Publisher: International Union Against Tuberculosis and Lung Disease
- Free Content
- New Content
- Subscribed Content
- Free Trial Content
Abstract:
Highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) suppresses viral replication and improves immune function. However the inflammatory component of immune restoration can have clinically deleterious effects on previously asymptomatic infections. We report the development of acute respiratory failure in a patient after the institution of HAART, following 2 months of appropriate therapy for pulmonary tuberculosis. Necrotizing granulomas with acid-fast bacilli were found on lung biopsy, but cultures were negative for Mycobacterium tuberculosis and no other pathogens were isolated. Polymerase chain reaction of lung biopsy tissue for all mycobacterial species was positive only for M. tuberculosis. Rapid clinical improvement followed corticosteroid therapy. After initiating HAART, clinicians should be aware of the possibility of an inflammatory response to a previously quiescent tuberculous infection, even while on antituberculosis therapy.Keywords: tuberculosis; drug therapy; HIV; anti-HIV agents
Document Type: Short communication
Affiliations: 1: Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of Alberta, Alberta, Canada 2: Provincial Laboratory of Northern Alberta, Alberta, Canada 3: Department of Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
- Free Content
- New Content
- Subscribed Content
- Free Trial Content
Click here for Page Help