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Updated: Jul 1, 2026
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Assessment of Human Natural Killer Cell Events Driven by FcγRIIIa Engagement in the Presence of Therapeutic Antibodies
Published on: May 22, 2020
Rituximab-induced changes in hematolymphoid tissues found at autopsy
Adina M Cioc1, Steven M Vanderwerf, Bruce A Peterson
1Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Minnesota Medical Center, Fairview, Minneapolis, MN, USA.
American Journal of Clinical Pathology
|September 17, 2008
Summary
Rituximab causes significant and lasting depletion of normal B cells in lymphoid tissues like the lymph node and spleen. This effect is observed quickly and persists long after treatment ends.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Hematology
- Oncology
Background:
- Rituximab's impact on circulating B cells is known.
- Limited data exists on rituximab's effect on non-malignant B cells in lymphoid organs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate rituximab's depletion effect on nonneoplastic B cells in the lymph node and spleen.
- To determine the duration and consistency of this depletion.
Main Methods:
- Review of clinical charts and autopsy records from 10 rituximab-treated patients.
- Analysis of lymph node and spleen sections using immunoperoxidase stains.
Main Results:
- Rituximab significantly reduced nonneoplastic B cells in lymph nodes and spleen compared to control groups.
- Depletion was evident within 1 month and after 3 doses.
- B cell populations did not recover within 1 to 12 months post-treatment.
Conclusions:
- Rituximab induces rapid, consistent, profound, and prolonged depletion of B lymphocytes in human lymphoid tissue.
- The findings highlight rituximab's extensive impact beyond malignant cells.
