The Effect of Maternal Peripartum Anti-TNFα Use on Infant Immune Response

Sarah Sheibani, Russell Cohen, Sunanda Kane, Marla Dubinsky, Joseph A. Church, Uma Mahadevan

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

36 Scopus citations

Abstract

Background: Infliximab (IFX) and adalimumab (ADA) cross the placenta in the third trimester and can be detectable in infants for up to 12 months. Aim: The aim of this study was to determine whether in utero IFX or ADA exposure results in an impaired immune response in infants, as measured by immunoglobulin levels and antibody responses to routine primary immunizations. Methods: Infants who were exposed to in utero anti-TNFα agents were prospectively evaluated. Immunoglobulin levels (IgG, IgM, IgA) and antibodies to standard vaccinations, including tetanus toxoid (tetanus) and Haemophilus influenza type b (Hib), were measured in infants of at least 6 months of age. Results: Twelve infants were prospectively studied: 10 exposed to in utero IFX and 2 exposed to ADA with at least one dose administered in the third trimester. Immunoglobulin levels were available on 10/12 patients, with all showing adequate immunoglobulin levels, except for low IgM levels in 5 (50 %) infants. Adequate responses to both the tetanus and Hib vaccines were seen in 11 of 12 (92 %) infants. Conclusions: Infants exposed to anti-TNFα agents in utero demonstrate appropriate response to two commonly administered neonatal vaccines and show adequate immunoglobulin levels, except for IgM. Newborns with a history of exposure to anti-TNFα agents should follow a standard vaccination schedule for inactive vaccines.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)1622-1627
Number of pages6
JournalDigestive Diseases and Sciences
Volume61
Issue number6
DOIs
StatePublished - 1 Jun 2016

Keywords

  • Anti-TNFα
  • Immune response
  • Inflammatory bowel disease
  • Pregnancy

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'The Effect of Maternal Peripartum Anti-TNFα Use on Infant Immune Response'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this