Surveillance of Adverse Events of Biologic Therapy in Patients with Rheumatologically Diseases and Oncological Diseases

Background: Systemic rheumatic diseases (SRDs) cause long-term disability and affect both physical and mental health, leading to major challenges in daily life and work. New biologic treatments have improved outcomes in SRDs and cancer, but they require careful monitoring, and need to be tailored to each patient for the best results.
Aim of the work: To compare between side effects and the most common toxicities associated with biological therapies in patients with rheumatological diseases and oncological diseases.
Patients and methods: This cross-sectional observational cohort study included a total of 75 patients, who were classified into two groups. Group A consisted of 18 patients with rheumatological diseases who are receiving biological therapy, while Group B included 57 patients with oncological diseases undergoing treatment with biological therapy.
Results: Rheumatologic patients were commonly males (66.7%), had lower RBCs (3.9 million/μL), and longer treatment duration (15 vs. 6 months), with 77.7% showing regression. Oncologic patients had higher urea (47 mg/dL), more GI symptoms (5.3–7.0%), and greater disease progression (35.1%) with 3% mortality.
Conclusion: This study compares biologic therapy in rheumatological and oncological illness, with better outcomes in the rheumatological group, including fewer progression rates and more regression. The oncological group experienced increased adverse events and increased mortality. Some positive responses were seen in patients with oncology, whereas rheumatological diseases were generally more treatable. Continuous monitoring is essential to improve the safety and effectiveness of the treatment in both groups.