Treatment of resistant pemphigus vulgaris with an anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody (Rituximab).
We describe a 54-year-old man with resistant pemphigus vulgaris. Standard therapies had afforded inadequate control and have been associated with considerable side-effects. The anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody, Rituximab (MabThera, Roche), was trialled with significant benefit. We discuss its potential mechanism of action.
Cooper
H L
HL
Dermatopharmacology Unit, University of Southampton, Southampton General Hospital, Tremona Road, Southampton SO16 6YD, UK.
Healy
E
E
Theaker
J M
JM
Friedmann
P S
PS
D000911:Antibodies, Monoclonal / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D058846:Antibodies, Monoclonal, Murine-Derived; D001706:Biopsy; D003879:Dermatologic Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D005455:Fluorescent Antibody Technique; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010392:Pemphigus / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000188:drug therapy*; D011239:Prednisolone / Q000008:administration & dosage; D000069283:Rituximab; D016896:Treatment Outcome
D000911:Antibodies, Monoclonal; D058846:Antibodies, Monoclonal, Murine-Derived; D003879:Dermatologic Agents; D000069283:Rituximab; D011239:Prednisolone