Abstract

A PROSPECTIVE STUDY ON OPPORTUNISTIC INFECTIONS CAUSED BY IMMUNOSUPPRESSANT’S MEDICATION AND PATIENT RELATED RISK FACTOR IN AUTIOIMMUNE DISEASE PATIENTS

Dr. D. Bhumika, Dr. MH. Fathima, Dr. Komaragiri Krishna, Dr. Aluri Praneetha*

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Abstract

Immunosuppressant medications are a cornerstone in the management of various medical conditions, including autoimmune disorders and post-transplant organ rejection. These drugs, such as DMARDs, TNFalpha inhibitors, and biologic agents, function by dampening the immune response to prevent tissue damage and improve patient outcomes. However, their immunosuppressive effects also render patients more susceptible to opportunistic infections—pathogens that typically do not cause illness in individuals with intact immune systems. This prospective study aims to fill this gap by systematically evaluating the incidence of opportunistic infections among patients receiving immunosuppressant medications and by identifying significant patient-related risk factors. The insights gained from this study will contribute to enhanced risk stratification and management strategies, ultimately improving patient outcomes and reducing the burden of opportunistic infections in those undergoing immunosuppressive therapy.

Keywords: Immunosuppressants, infections, azathioprine, arthritis, autoimmune disease.