Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 25, 2026
09:54
Assessment of Human Natural Killer Cell Events Driven by FcγRIIIa Engagement in the Presence of Therapeutic Antibodies
Published on: May 22, 2020
Rituximab in cryoglobulinemic peripheral neuropathy
Roberto Cavallo1, Dario Roccatello, Elisa Menegatti
1SC Neurologia, Ospedale San Giovanni Bosco, Turin, Italy.
Journal of Neurology
|March 6, 2009
Summary
Rituximab effectively treats type II mixed cryoglobulinemia-associated neuropathy, a condition often resistant to other therapies. This treatment improved nerve function and symptoms with minimal side effects in a prospective study.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Neurology
- Rheumatology
Background:
- Type II mixed cryoglobulinemia involves abnormal IgM production, potentially causing severe neurological issues like peripheral neuropathy.
- Hepatitis C virus-associated neuropathy in mixed cryoglobulinemia is often treatment-resistant.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy and safety of rituximab in treating type II mixed cryoglobulinemia-associated peripheral neuropathy.
Main Methods:
- An open prospective study treated thirteen patients with rituximab (375 mg/m(2) over 4 weeks, with follow-up doses).
- Outcomes were assessed via clinical neurological evaluation, electromyography, and laboratory markers over at least 12 months.
Main Results:
- Patients showed improvement in sensory symptoms and a significant reduction in neuropathy disability scores.
- Electromyography indicated increased motor action potential amplitude; viral load remained unchanged.
- Rituximab treatment was well-tolerated with negligible side effects.
Conclusions:
- Rituximab demonstrates effectiveness and safety as a treatment for neuropathy in type II mixed cryoglobulinemia.
- This therapy offers a promising option for patients with refractory peripheral neuropathy associated with this condition.
