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 diseasesmay 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 theeffectiveness of a full coarse treatment with rituximab for cases of pemphigus and pemphigoid. Materials and Methods: A case series studyinvolved ten cases of pemphigus and pemphigoid consulted the Dermatology Department of Merjan Teaching Hospital, Babylon, and treatedwith a full course of rituximab. Results: A complete remission (CR) has been achieved in the vast majority of cases, whereas the side effectswere trivial and rare. Conclusions: Rituximab has proved to be effective form of therapy for pemphigus. A CR has been achieved in the vastmajority of cases, whereas the side effects were trivial and rare.