Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 29, 2026
07:06
Fecal Microbiota Transplantation via Colonoscopy for Recurrent C. difficile Infection
Published on: December 8, 2014
[Ulcerative colitis: exceptional consequence after rituximab therapy]
Y Sekkach1, S Hammi, M Elqatni
1Département de Médecine Interne B, Hôpital Militaire D'instruction Med V, Rabat, Maroc. sekkach@hotmail.com
Annales Pharmaceutiques Francaises
|September 20, 2011
Summary
Rituximab (RTX) treatment for refractory lupus can cause rare gastrointestinal issues like appendicitis and ulcerative colitis. Close monitoring for digestive symptoms is crucial during RTX therapy.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Gastroenterology
- Rheumatology
Background:
- Rituximab (RTX) is an immunomodulatory therapy used for refractory systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).
- Adverse complications associated with RTX are generally rare.
- This case highlights an unusual presentation of RTX-induced gastrointestinal complications.
Observation:
- A 34-year-old patient with refractory bullous lupus (cutaneous, articular, hematologic, immunologic) was treated with RTX.
- During RTX therapy, the patient experienced acute catarrhal appendicitis and later, erythematous, ulcerative colitis.
- Histological examination revealed significant CD8+ T lymphocyte infiltrates in the colitis tissue.
Findings:
- RTX treatment, while effective for refractory SLE, can precipitate rare gastrointestinal complications.
- Appendicitis and ulcerative colitis are potential adverse events requiring careful monitoring.
- CD8+ T lymphocyte infiltrates may play a role in RTX-induced gastrointestinal pathology.
Implications:
- Gastrointestinal complications of targeted immunotherapies necessitate vigilant monitoring.
- Early and thorough morphological investigation of digestive symptoms is essential during RTX treatment.
- Prompt diagnosis and management can prevent severe outcomes, including surgical emergencies and life-threatening conditions.
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