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Rituximab for non-infectious Uveitis and Scleritis
Caleb C Ng1,2, Aileen Sy3,4, Emmett T Cunningham3,5,6,7
1Department of Ophthalmology, California Pacific Medical Center, San Francisco, CA, USA. Calebctng@gmail.com.
Journal of Ophthalmic Inflammation and Infection
|August 16, 2021
Summary
Rituximab (RTX) is effective and well-tolerated for treating non-infectious uveitis and scleritis, often used as a later-line therapy. The study found positive responses in over 80% of uveitis and 90% of scleritis patients.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Rheumatology
- Immunology
Background:
- Non-infectious uveitis and scleritis are chronic inflammatory conditions requiring effective treatment.
- Rituximab (RTX), a monoclonal antibody targeting CD20, has emerged as a therapeutic option for refractory cases.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the efficacy and safety of rituximab (RTX) in treating non-infectious uveitis and scleritis.
- To analyze patient characteristics, treatment protocols, and outcomes associated with RTX therapy.
Main Methods:
- A literature review was conducted, including data up to December 2020.
- Individual patient data from 229 cases of refractory non-infectious uveitis (n=108) and scleritis (n=121) treated with RTX were analyzed.
Main Results:
- Rituximab was predominantly used as third-line or later therapy for both conditions.
- Positive therapeutic responses were observed in 83.5% of uveitis patients and 93.3% of scleritis patients.
- The majority of patients experienced no significant side effects, with infusion reactions being the most common adverse event.
Conclusions:
- Rituximab (RTX) demonstrates significant efficacy and a favorable safety profile for non-infectious uveitis and scleritis.
- RTX is a valuable treatment option, particularly as second or third-line therapy for refractory cases.
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