Vaccination for immunocompromised patients and patients with autoimmune rheumatic diseases

Abstract

Vaccination is a way to prevent infectious diseases. Infections are more prevalent among patients with rheumatic diseases when compared to the general population. This higher prevalence may be due to an immune system deficiency associated with the underlying condition or to the use of immunessupressive therapy. Vaccination is an effective measure to reduce morbidy and mortality in these patients. The aim of this article is to review safety and efficacy issues concerning different vaccines for immunocompromised patients and patients with autoimmune rheumatic diseases. In general, vaccines with killed bacteria or virus are safe for patients with autoimmune rheumatic diseases, even when they are taking immunessupressive therapy. The vaccination is effective to most patients because they usually accomplish an effective immune response. Administration of attenuated vaccines with live bacteria or virus to immunocompromised patients is contraindicated.