On the issue of screening and prevention of chronic and opportunistic infections in rheumatology

Abstract

The problem of comorbid infections in rheumatology still remains relevant. Against the background of immunosuppressive/immunomodulatory therapy of immuno-inflammatory rheumatic diseases (IIRD), chronic and opportunistic infections (COI) often develop. Some of these infections can be prevented by performing timely screening procedures and preventive measures. A group of experts from the European Alliance of Rheumatology Associations (EULAR) has prepared recommendations on screening procedures and prevention measures for the most common COI (tuberculosis, chronic viral hepatitis B and C, infections caused by the human immunodeficiency virus and Herpes zoster, pneumocystis pneumonia) within the framework of the IIRD. This article presents the main provisions of this document. The need for periodic review of screening and preventive procedures is emphasized as new scientific data are accumulated.