Efficacy and Safety of Rituximab in the Treatment of Vasculitic Leg Ulcers Associated with Hepatitis C Virus Infection. (3rd December 2012)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Bonilla-Abadía, Fabio; Echeverri, Andrés F.; Izquierdo, Jorge H.; Cañas, Felipe; Cañas, Carlos A.
• Other Names: Orellana C. Academic Editor.; Tennen H. Academic Editor.
• Is Part Of: Case reports in rheumatology. Volume 2012(2012)
• Publication Date: 2012-12-03
• Subjects: Rheumatology -- Periodicals; Rheumatology -- Case studies -- Periodicals; Rheumatic Diseases; Connective Tissue Diseases; Rheumatology; Periodicals; Electronic journals; Case studies; Periodicals; 616.723
• DOI: 10.1155/2012/923897
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2090-6889

Abstract

Abstract : Vasculitic leg ulcers are a cutaneous manifestation of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection often associated with cryoglobulinemia. Their treatment is difficult and is based on steroids and immunosuppressive drugs with an erratic response and a high probability of adverse reaction. We report three patients with vasculitic leg ulcers associated with hepatitis C virus infection who were treated successfully with rituximab. The pain control and healing were achieved quickly. No adverse effects with rituximab in these patients were presented.