B-cell treatment in ANCA-associated vasculitis.
Level V
Where this comes from
- Record sourced from PubMed, PMID 32348514.
- Also identified by DOI 10.1093/rheumatology/kez605.
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Abstract
The pivotal role of B-cells in ANCA-associated vasculitis has been suggested by experimental data that demonstrate the direct pathogenicity of ANCAs. Rituximab (RTX), an anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody that targets B-cells, has proven its efficacy for induction of remission in severe ANCA vasculitis. RTX is equivalent to CYC for induction of remission, and is probably superior in relapsing patients. Long-term B cell depletion by prolonged RTX treatment has been shown to significantly reduce the relapse rate, when compared with AZA maintenance therapy. Biomarkers, such as B-cell subpopulations or ANCA monitoring, may help the clinician to determine the optimal dose and duration of RTX therapy.
Medical subject headings
- Anti-Neutrophil Cytoplasmic Antibody-Associated Vasculitis
- B-Lymphocytes
- Rituximab