Mrs. Reeta Wardhan, A 50-year old female with rheumatoid arthritis is being considered for infliximab therapy. Which of the following tests should be performed before beginning treatment?
Infliximab is a monoclonal antibody against TNF-α. It is commonly used to treat moderate to severe rheumatoid arthritis particularly in patients who have failed methotrexate therapy. TNF-α inhibitors can cause serious adverse effects, includ­ing reactivation of latent tuberculosis. All patients being considered for TNF-α inhibitor therapy should have a baseline PPD skin test to screen for latent tuberculosis.
Liver function tests
PPD skin test
Pulmonary function tests
Visual examination