abstract
- Concern has been raised about an increased risk of lymphoma and skin cancers in patients with rheumatoid arthritis due to administration of anti-TNF-α drugs. Meta-analysis of observational data from registries as well as from randomized controlled trials has failed to show a significant increase in the risk of lymphoma when the sample size has been sufficiently large; skin cancer risk may represent a valid concern. Issues relating to interpretation of these data are discussed.