Recommendations for prevention of infection in systemic autoimmune rheumatic diseases.

OBJECTIVES: To develop recommendations for the prevention of infection in adult patients with systemic autoimmune rheumatic diseases (SARD).

METHODS: Clinical research questions relevant to the objective of the document were identified by a panel of experts selected based on their experience in the field. Systematic reviews of the available evidence were conducted, and evidence was graded according to the Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network criteria. Specific recommendations were made.

RESULTS: Five questions were selected, referring to prevention of infection by Pneumocystis jirovecii with trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole, primary and secondary prophylactic measures against hepatitis B virus, vaccination against human papillomavirus, vaccination against Streptococcus pneumoniae and vaccination against influenza virus, making a total of 18 recommendations, structured by question, based on the evidence found for the different SARD and/or expert consensus.

CONCLUSIONS: There is enough evidence on the safety and efficacy of vaccinations and other prophylactic measures against the microorganisms reviewed in this document to specifically recommend them for patients with SARD.