Latent tuberculosis infection and tuberculosis in patients with rheumatic diseases treated with anti-tumor necrosis factor agents.

The introduction of biological agents, especially the tumor necrosis factor inhibitors (anti-TNF), for the treatment of rheumatic diseases increased the risk of developing tuberculosis (TB). Screening for latent TB infection (LTBI) is strongly recommended before starting therapy with anti-TNF agents. The objective of this study was to identify the prevalence of LTBI and TB among patients with rheumatic diseases on anti-TNF agents.