Serious infections in antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody-associated vasculitis: Epidemiology, risk factors, and strategies for prevention

Serious infections in antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA)-associated vasculitides (AAV) represent a contributor to morbidity and mortality. Patients are susceptible to both typical and opportunistic infections due to immunocompromise resulting from immunosuppressive treatments and disease activity. Over the past decade, studies predominantly in retrospective cohorts have outlined the incidence and nature of serious infections, including organ involvement and pathogens, as well as various risk factors for serious infections. This review summarises the recent literature on serious infections and discusses risk factors for these infections; we have categorised them into baseline characteristics, laboratory values, end-organ damage, and immunosuppressive treatments. It discusses emerging data on the role of reduced glucocorticoid regimens and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole prophylaxis in preventing serious infections. Finally, implications on clinical practice and important avenues for future research are discussed.