Covid-19 worldwide: we need precise data by age group and sex urgently
Raj Bhopal
Abstract
<h3>Objective</h3> The aim of this study was to characterize the indication, outcomes and adverse effects of rituximab treatment in a large single-center cohort of patients with systemic rheumatoid vasculitis (RV). <h3>Methods</h3> We retrospectively reviewed the medical charts of 17 patients treated with rituximab for systemic RV from 2000 to 2017. Clinical characteristics, outcomes and adverse effects were analyzed. <h3>Results</h3> At RV diagnosis, mean age was 59 years, 59% were female, 94% were Caucasian and 82% had positive rheumatoid factor. At time of initiating rituximab, median BVAS/RA was 4.0 (IQR, 2.0-7.5). RV presented in the skin in 8 patients (47%), as mononeuritis multiplex in 2 (12%), inflammatory ocular disease in 2 (12%), and affected multiple organ systems in 5 (29%). Rituximab was used for induction in 8 (47%) patients, relapsing RV in 4 (24%), second-line in 2 (12%), and salvage therapy or in combination with another agent in 3 (18%). At 3 months, 2 (13%) of 15 patients with available follow up information achieved complete remission (CR), and 10 (67%) achieved partial response (PR). At 6 months, 6 patients (40%) achieved CR, 8 (53%) achieved PR, and one had no response. At 12 months, 8 of 13 patients with available records (62%) had CR and 5 patients (38%) had PR. <h3>Conclusion</h3> Systemic RV is difficult to treat effectively. Complete remission of RV was achieved in 62% and partial response in 38% of patients within 12 months of rituximab use. Further evidence is needed to inform treatment for patients with RV.