Is it safe to use TNF-α blockers for systemic inflammatory disease in patients with heart failure? Importance of dosage and receptor specificity.

Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) blockers are widely used in the treatment of chronic inflammatory diseases, especially chronic arthritis. Current guidelines advise against the use of such agents in patients who have a concomitant heart failure. Consequently, a group of patients with a devastating inflammatory disease cannot benefit from an excellent treatment option. After a critical review of the current literature, we conclude that there is not sufficient evidence to warn against such a regimen if recommended standard doses are used. A negative effect on the heart function seems to occur if unconventional high doses of TNF-α blockers are given. The theoretical background for this is discussed.