Subconjunctival Rituximab Administration for the Treatment of Scleritis. (18th August 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Vergouwen, D. P. C.; Ten Berge, J. C.; Naus-Postema, N. C.; Rothova, A.
• Is Part Of: Ocular immunology and inflammation. Volume 30:Number 6(2022)
• Page Start: 1309
• Page End: 1311
• Publication Date: 2022-08-18
• Subjects: Scleritis -- rituximab -- anti-CD20 therapy -- treatment -- subconjunctival administration; Eye -- Diseases -- Immunological aspects -- Periodicals; Eye -- Inflammation -- Periodicals; 617.7
• DOI: 10.1080/09273948.2022.2029498
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0927-3948

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Purpose: Scleritis is a sight-threatening inflammation, which is commonly accompanied by severe complications. Aggressive systemic immunosuppressive treatment, which is frequently needed, can be associated with serious complications, and might therefore be (temporarily) contraindicated. Methods: We report on the outcomes of three patients with severe, active, non-infectious scleritis, refractory or intolerant to systemic treatment, who received subconjunctival rituximab (RTX) injections. A dose of 2.5 to 7.5 mg was administered after topical anesthesia, and follow-up varied from 8 to 10 months. Results: Subconjunctival RTX showed minimal to no effect on subjective symptoms, clinical features and/or ultrasound images. No serious adverse effects occurred. Conclusion: Further studies are needed to assess the effect of local administration of RTX in scleritis, but our limited observation is not promising.