In a nutshell
The study looked at the association between biological drug treatment for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and the risk of melanoma (skin cancer). The authors concluded that there was no increased risk of melanoma in RA patients receiving treatment with biologics.
Some background
In RA, the immune system attacks the healthy joints the way it would a virus or bacteria. Biologics, such as tumor necrosis factor inhibitors (TNFi) like Humira, are commonly used in the treatment of RA. These drugs works by blocking the activity of proteins that are known to contribute to the over-activation of the immune system.
Melanoma is a form of skin cancer that is common in people with lowered immunity. Biologics drugs can weaken the immune system of RA patients, so the risk of melanoma may be increased.
Methods & findings
The current study examined the association between treatment with biologics and the risk of melanoma.
Data from 11 different RA registers in 9 countries was collected. The biologics included in the study were rituximab (Rituxan), tocilizumab (Actemra) and abatacept (Orencia).
Compared to the general population, patients treated with biologics did not show a significantly higher risk of melanoma. Similar results were seen for rituximab, tocilizumab and abatacept.
Patients receiving biological drugs were then compared to patients who had never received treatment with biological drugs. Patients receiving TNFi or rituximab showed a very minor increased risk of melanoma. Patients receiving tocilizumab or abatacept showed no increased risk. These differences were not statistically significant.
The bottom line
The authors concluded that the risk of melanoma in not significantly increased for patients receiving biological treatments for RA.
The fine print
This study was funded by drug companies that produce some of the biological drugs included in the study. Limited data was available for patients receiving tocilizumab and abatacept. The results for these drugs are not as significant as for TNFi and rituximab treated patients.
What’s next?
Consult with your physician regarding your risk factors for developing melanoma.
Published By :
Annals of the rheumatic diseases
Date :
Jun 15, 2016
