The effect of etanercept on a case of amyloidosis secondary to ankylosing spondylitis: results of 2-year follow-up.

Secondary amyloidosis (type AA) is rarely encountered but can be a significant complication of ankylosing spondylitis (AS) and may lead to proteinuria and renal dysfunction. Anti-tumor necrosis factor-alpha (anti-TNFα) agents may be used to induce clinical remission by suppressing systemic inflammation in secondary amyloidosis. The patient described , with the diagnosis of AS, was diagnosed with secondary amyloidosis, despite treatment with disease modifying anti-rheumatic medication. He developed marked proteinuria, renal dysfunction and low levels of serum albumin. Diagnosis of amyloidosis was confirmed by renal biopsy. During a 2-year treatment period with etanercept, an anti-TNFα agent, a definite improvement was determined in all parameters. This case illustrates that in the treatment of secondary amyloidosis related to AS, etanercept, an anti-TNF α agent, can be considered an effective therapeutic option.