Tuberculous Necrotizing Fasciitis in a Patient with Rheumatoid Arthritis on Anti-TNF Treatment: A Case Report
Year: 2025
Type: article
Study design: Case Report
Abstract: Tuberculous necrotizing fasciitis (NF) is an exceedingly rare condition, particularly in patients undergoing immunosuppressive therapy for autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis. This case describes a 69-year-old male with a history of rheumatoid arthritis treated with adalimumab, who presented with severe pain, swelling, and redness in the right upper limb. Despite initial treatment for presumed bacterial NF, histological examination and tuberculosis (TB) polymerase chain reaction (PCR) confirmed tuberculous fasciitis. The patient exhibited respiratory symptoms, and imaging revealed a cavitary lesion suggestive of pulmonary tuberculosis, which was also confirmed by sputum PCR. Unfortunately, the patient succumbed to an acute myocardial infarction during treatment. This case highlights the importance of considering TB in the differential diagnosis of necrotizing fasciitis, particularly in immunocompromised individuals, to ensure timely and appropriate management.Cite this article as: Cataño JC, Arango Guerra P. Tuberculous necrotizing fasciitisin a patient with rheumatoid arthritis on anti-TNF treatment: A case report. Eur JRheumatol. 2025, 12(1), 1-4, 0035, doi: 10.5152/eurjrheum.2025.23035.
Source: European Journal of Rheumatology
Authors: Juan Carlos Cataño, Pablo Arango Guerra
Institutions: Universidad de Antioquia, Universidad CES, Clínica CES
Language: English
Subfield: Surgery
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W4409115136