The spectrum and types of adverse side effects to biological immune modulators: A proposal for new classification
2007
Abstract
In recent years, a growing number of biological agents such as cytokines, monoclonal antibodies and fusion proteins have become available for the treatment of various autoimmune, neoplastic, cardiovascular, infectious, allergic, and other conditions. Their introduction has resulted in marked clinical improvements for many patients.
Nevertheless, a variety of adverse side effects have been observed with these agents. Based on the special features of biological agents a new classification of these side effects of biological agents is proposed - related but clearly distinct from the classification of side effects observed with chemicals and drugs.