Rituximab in the adjuvant treatment of pemphigus vulgaris: A prospective open-label pilot study in five patients

Abstract

Background: Rituximab is a monoclonal antibody directed against the CD20 antigen expressed on B lymphocytes. There are reports of its efficacy in the treatment of autoimmune diseases, including pemphigus. Objectives: Prospectively to evaluate the efficacy of rituximab as adjuvant treatment for pemphigus vulgaris (PV). Methods: Patients with PV were treated with intravenous rituximab (375 mg m-2) weekly for 4 weeks in this prospective open-label pilot study. Other concurrent immunosuppression was continued. Results: Of five patients, one achieved complete remission and was able to cease all medication, while two achieved clearance of clinical lesions but continued on systemic therapy. Two pat..