Infliximab treatment of sarcoidosis

OBJECTIVE: To determine whether there is sufficient evidence in the literature to support the use of infliximab in the treatment of sarcoidosis. DATA SOURCES AND SELECTION: Literature was accessed through MEDLINE (1966-August 2002), OVID (2001-January 2003), and bibliographic searches. Additional databases were also searched. Published literature relevant to the use of infliximab in the treatment of sarcoidosis was evaluated. DATA SYNTHESIS: In theory, tumor-necrosis factor-alpha blockade appears to be an optimal strategy for treating sarcoidosis. Case series reporting the use of infliximalb in refractory sarcoidosis was reviewed to evaluate its potential role as a treatment option. CONCLUSIONS: Although there is insufficient evidence suggesting that infliximab is an appropriate alternative to conventional treatment options as first-line therapy for sarcoidosis, the preliminary outlook on its use in treatment-refractory cases is promising.