Has anyone else had positive T-spot test before going onto biologic treatment?

[Harpey]

Hi all, I've been approved to go onto biologic treatment but had a positive T-spot test (one of the routine pre-biologic blood tests - for TB) and wanted to know if anyone else had the same and if they did then go on to have biologic treatment?

Many thanks

[Astral]

Yes, I had a positive TB test before I started Humira. I had to take two lots of anti-TB meds for 3 months but was allowed to start the Humira 6 weeks into the treatment. My chest x-ray had been clear, just the positive skin test, and I have had no chest problems at all since starting Humira , I've been on it about 6 years now.

[Harpey in reply to Astral]

Hi Doreen - many thanks, that's really helpful and reassuring.

[earthwitch]

On one of the other support forums I use there have been a number of people who had a positive Tb test and then went on to have biologics. Its just a matter of having (or at least starting) the Tb treatment first.

[Lahnie]

Hi there it's a long time since I've been on here for myself. Just browsing and saw your post. My son has just been approved for biologics then tested positive and was told he has latent TB! He was prescribed the antibiotic medication which can cause all sorts of other problems. He then asked for another type of TB test which came back negative! In fact the dr was adamant he does not have latent TB. We were understandably horrified that they could so easily get it wrong! I'm not sure which test you had but I would advise you get it double checked before starting any other type of meds.

Sorry if I sound like I'm scaremongering but just concerned you get it right. I am on biologics which have helped enormously but they do lower the immune system.

Good luck in whatever you decide. x

[Astral]

Good luck with it Harpey. It's not nice having to take the drugs when we already take so many. I hope you have success with whichever anti-tnf drug you are given.

[Harpey]

Thank you for your replies. I had TB 30 years ago and was fully treated which is why the consultant said my blood test should have been negative. Hopefully I will still be able to start the Enbrel soon.

Best wishes