B-cell treatment in ANCA-associated vasculitis. (29th April 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Karras, Alexandre; Lazareth, Hélène; Chauvet, Sophie
• Is Part Of: Rheumatology. Volume 59(2020)Supplement 3
• Page Start: iii68
• Page End: iii73
• Publication Date: 2020-04-29
• Subjects: ANCA -- vasculitis -- B cells -- rituximab; Rheumatism -- Periodicals; Rheumatology -- Periodicals; 616.723005
• DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/kez605
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1462-0324

Abstract

Abstract: The pivotal role of B-cells in ANCA-associated vasculitis has been suggested by experimental data that demonstrate the direct pathogenicity of ANCAs. Rituximab (RTX), an anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody that targets B-cells, has proven its efficacy for induction of remission in severe ANCA vasculitis. RTX is equivalent to CYC for induction of remission, and is probably superior in relapsing patients. Long-term B cell depletion by prolonged RTX treatment has been shown to significantly reduce the relapse rate, when compared with AZA maintenance therapy. Biomarkers, such as B-cell subpopulations or ANCA monitoring, may help the clinician to determine the optimal dose and duration of RTX therapy.