Rituximab for the treatment of pemphigus and pemphigoid: A case series of ten patients

Abstract

Background: Autoimmune bullous skin disorders are rare but potentially fatal disorders of the skin and mucous membranes. These diseases may require long-term treatment with systemic corticosteroids and other immunosuppressive drugs, which can lead to serious adverse events. Rituximab has proved to be effective form of therapy for pemphigus and pemphigoid. Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of a full coarse treatment with rituximab for cases of pemphigus and pemphigoid. Materials and Methods: A case series study involved ten cases of pemphigus and pemphigoid consulted the Dermatology Department of Merjan Teaching Hospital, Babylon, and treated with a full course of rituximab. Results: A complete remission (CR) has been achieved in the vast majority of cases, whereas the side effects were trivial and rare. Conclusions: Rituximab has proved to be effective form of therapy for pemphigus. A CR has been achieved in the vast majority of cases, whereas the side effects were trivial and rare.

Keywords

• Pemphigoid
• pemphigus
• rituximab
• treatment