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Biologic therapy during infection — SCE Rheumatology MCQ

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EasyRheumatological pharmacologyBiologic therapy during infectionSCE Rheumatology

A 60-year-old woman receiving infliximab for psoriatic arthritis develops fever, cough and new right upper-zone consolidation. She is due her next infusion tomorrow. What is the most appropriate management?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: C — Withhold infliximab and treat infection before restarting

Biologic therapy should generally be withheld during serious active infection and restarted after adequate treatment and clinical recovery. Continuing infusion during pneumonia increases risk of deterioration. Preventing anti-drug antibodies does not take priority over acute infection safety.

Reference: BSR biologic DMARD safety guideline; BNF