Etanercept Induced Myopericarditis and Subacute Cutaneous Lupus Erythematosus

Abstract

Introduction: Etanercept is a tumor necrosis factor inhibitor currently used for the treatment of autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and most spondyloarthropathies. The increased use of this medication has continued to reveal more of its adverse effects. These adverse effects include reactivation of infections such as mycobacterium tuberculosis, cutaneous disorders, systemic lupus erythematosus-like syndromes and cardiovascular-related conditions. Case Report: 61 year old man with known history of psoriatic arthritis on long term use of etanercept, presented with new onset chest pain and emergence of sun sensitive erythematous rashes. Found to have myopericarditis and subacute cutaneous lupus erythematosus with resolution of symptoms within six weeks of discontinuation of etanercept. Discussion/Conclusion: Having two adverse effects of this medication makes this a rather compelling presentation. Etanercept induced myopericarditis and subacute lupus erythematosus should be suspected in any patient on this medication presenting with new onset chest pain and sun-sensitive rash.