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Ren J, Wang J, Liu R, Jin Y, Guo J, Yao Y, Luo J, Hao H, Gao F. Long-Term Efficacy and Safety of Low-Dose Rituximab in Patients with Refractory Myasthenia Gravis. Eur Neurol 2023; 86:387-394. [PMID: 37778340 DOI: 10.1159/000534336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Rituximab is a monoclonal chimeric antibody against CD20+ B cells. We aimed to assess the long-term efficacy and safety of CD20+ B cell-guided treatment with low-dose rituximab in refractory myasthenia gravis patients. METHODS Patients with refractory myasthenia gravis treated with rituximab for more than 2 years were included. Rituximab was administered when CD20+ B cells were greater than 1%. We analysed the efficacy of rituximab, treatment interval, side effects, prognosis, and treatment course. RESULTS A total of 22 patients were included. All patients received 2-12 doses of rituximab, and the median follow-up time was 48.5 months. The scores of the Myasthenia Gravis Activities of Daily Living and Myasthenia Gravis Composite were significantly lower than those at baseline (p < 0.05). MGFA-PIS was significantly improved in 21 (95.45%) patients and 14 (63.64%) patients have reached MGFA-PIS minimal manifestations. The average daily dose of prednisone and pyridostigmine bromide and the proportion of immunosuppressants were significantly lower (p < 0.05). Seven patients suffered from 14 worsenings. Eight patients terminated rituximab due to good efficacy. Most patients tolerated rituximab well, although 1 patient had opportunistic infection and hypogammaglobulinemia, 1 patient had an intracranial mass. CONCLUSION Long-term CD20+ B-cell-guided low-dose rituximab showed good efficacy and tolerance in patients with refractory myasthenia gravis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingru Ren
- Department of Neurology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China,
| | - Jianchun Wang
- Department of Neurology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Ran Liu
- Department of Neurology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yunyi Jin
- Department of Neurology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Jing Guo
- Department of Neurology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yan Yao
- Department of Neurology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Jingjing Luo
- Department of Neurology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Hongjun Hao
- Department of Neurology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Feng Gao
- Department of Neurology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
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Ly S, Nedosekin D, Wong HK. Review of an Anti-CD20 Monoclonal Antibody for the Treatment of Autoimmune Diseases of the Skin. Am J Clin Dermatol 2023; 24:247-273. [PMID: 36630066 PMCID: PMC9838371 DOI: 10.1007/s40257-022-00751-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Biologic therapies targeting B-cells are emerging as an effective strategy to treat a variety of immune-mediated diseases. One of the most studied B-cell-targeted therapies is rituximab, an anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody that exemplifies B-cell depletion therapy and has served as the prototype for other anti-CD20 monoclonal antibodies and the development of biosimilars. While there are multiple studies on the use of rituximab in dermatology, a comprehensive review of rituximab therapy in autoimmune skin conditions is lacking. In this literature review, we summarize indications, treatment efficacy, and safety of rituximab among common autoimmune diseases of the skin: pemphigus vulgaris, cutaneous lupus erythematous, dermatomyositis, systemic sclerosis, thyroid dermopathy, autoimmune pemphigoid diseases, and cutaneous vasculitis diseases. Existing data on rituximab support the approach of rituximab, biosimilars, and newer B-cell-targeting therapies in immune-mediated cutaneous diseases. Overall, rituximab, which targets CD20, provides an effective alternative or concomitant option to traditional immunosuppressants in the management of various autoimmune diseases of the skin. Further studies are necessary to expand the understanding and possible utility of B-cell-targeted therapies among autoimmune skin diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophia Ly
- grid.241054.60000 0004 4687 1637College of Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR USA
| | - Dmitry Nedosekin
- grid.241054.60000 0004 4687 1637College of Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR USA
| | - Henry K. Wong
- grid.241054.60000 0004 4687 1637Department of Dermatology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, 4301 W. Markham St., Slot #576, Little Rock, AR 72205 USA
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Szekanecz Z, McInnes IB, Schett G, Szamosi S, Benkő S, Szűcs G. Autoinflammation and autoimmunity across rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases. Nat Rev Rheumatol 2021; 17:585-595. [PMID: 34341562 DOI: 10.1038/s41584-021-00652-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Most rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases (RMDs) can be placed along a spectrum of disorders, with autoinflammatory diseases (including monogenic systemic autoinflammatory diseases) and autoimmune diseases (such as systemic lupus erythematosus and antiphospholipid syndrome) representing the two ends of this spectrum. However, although most autoinflammatory diseases are characterized by the activation of innate immunity and inflammasomes and classical autoimmunity typically involves adaptive immune responses, there is some overlap in the features of autoimmunity and autoinflammation in RMDs. Indeed, some 'mixed-pattern' diseases such as spondyloarthritis and some forms of rheumatoid arthritis can also be delineated. A better understanding of the pathogenic pathways of autoinflammation and autoimmunity in RMDs, as well as the preferential cytokine patterns observed in these diseases, could help us to design targeted treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zoltán Szekanecz
- Division of Rheumatology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary.
| | - Iain B McInnes
- Institute of Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Georg Schett
- Department of Internal Medicine 3, Friedrich Alexander University Erlangen-Nuremberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany.,Deutsches Zentrum fur Immuntherapie, Friedrich Alexander University Erlangen-Nuremberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Szilvia Szamosi
- Division of Rheumatology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Szilvia Benkő
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Gabriella Szűcs
- Division of Rheumatology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
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Current and Emerging Drug Therapies for Connective Tissue Disease-Interstitial Lung Disease (CTD-ILD). Drugs 2020; 79:1511-1528. [PMID: 31399860 DOI: 10.1007/s40265-019-01178-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Interstitial lung disease (ILD) can be associated with all connective tissue diseases and is an important cause of morbidity and mortality. The management of connective tissue disease-interstitial lung disease (CTD-ILD) is challenging due substantial heterogeneity in disease behaviour and paucity of controlled clinical trials to guide treating clinicians. Not all patients require treatment, and the decision to treat needs to be individualised based on a patient's observed disease behaviour, baseline and longitudinal lung function measurements, extent of lung involvement on radiology and patient factors including age, co-morbidities and personal preference. If indicated, treatment of the CTD-ILD is largely with immunomodulation, with the aim to prevent progression of the ILD before further irreversible lung injury and disability occurs. Corticosteroids, cyclophosphamide, mycophenolate mofetil and azathioprine are the most common immunosuppressive agents currently used to treat CTD-ILD, demonstrating stability of lung function in case series and a small number of randomised controlled trials in ILD associated with systemic sclerosis. Biological and non-biological disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs, and the anti-fibrotics nintedanib and pirfenidone, have revolutionised the treatment of connective tissue diseases and idiopathic ILD, respectively. Furthermore, anti-fibrotics have recently demonstrated safety and efficacy in ILD associated with systemic sclerosis. There remains a critical unmet need to clarify when and in whom to initiate treatment, and which agent(s) to utilise to achieve optimal outcomes for CTD-ILD patients whilst minimising harms through prospective multicentre trials. This review highlights the challenges faced when treating patients with CTD-ILD and summarises available evidence for current, emerging and novel therapies.
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Lu J, Zhong H, Jing S, Wang L, Xi J, Lu J, Zhou L, Zhao C. Low-dose rituximab every 6 months for the treatment of acetylcholine receptor-positive refractory generalized myasthenia gravis. Muscle Nerve 2020; 61:311-315. [PMID: 31875994 DOI: 10.1002/mus.26790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2019] [Revised: 12/17/2019] [Accepted: 12/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION In this prospective, open-label study we explore the effectiveness of low-dose rituximab every 6 months in treating refractory generalized myasthenia gravis (GMG). METHODS Twelve patients with acetylcholine receptor (AChR)-positive refractory GMG were enrolled for the study. The primary endpoint was the change in quantitative myasthenia gravis (QMG) score from baseline to the study end. Secondary endpoints included changes in manual muscle testing (MMT), MG-Related Activities of Daily Living (MG-ADL), and 15-item Quality-of-Life (MGQOL-15) scores, as well as prednisolone reduction. RESULTS MG decreased from 18.25 ± 4.03 to 8.42 ± 3.99 (P = .0001), MMT from 27.50 ± 17.78 to 4.58 ± 4.34 (P = .0001), ADL from 8.50 ± 2.84 to 1.17 ± 1.27 (P < .0001), MGQOL-15 from 37.25 ± 13.78 to 17.50 ± 9.73 (P = .0015), and prednisolone dose from 29.38 ± 11.92 mg/day to 8.86 ± 1.88 mg/day (P ≤ .01). DISCUSSION Low-dose rituximab every 6 months is effective in treating refractory GMG patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Lu
- Department of Neurology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Huahua Zhong
- Department of Neurology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Sisi Jing
- Department of Neurology, Jing'an District Centre Hospital of Shanghai, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Liang Wang
- Department of Neurology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jianying Xi
- Department of Neurology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiahong Lu
- Department of Neurology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Lei Zhou
- Department of Neurology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Chongbo Zhao
- Department of Neurology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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Ebata S, Yoshizaki A, Fukasawa T, Miura S, Takahashi T, Sumida H, Asano Y, Sato S. Rituximab therapy is more effective than cyclophosphamide therapy for Japanese patients with anti-topoisomerase I-positive systemic sclerosis-associated interstitial lung disease. J Dermatol 2019; 46:1006-1013. [PMID: 31502326 DOI: 10.1111/1346-8138.15079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2019] [Accepted: 08/15/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis-associated interstitial lung disease (SSc-ILD) is the most frequent cause of death for SSc but there is still no sufficient treatment available. Although cyclophosphamide (CYC) therapy is a common treatment which has shown statistical efficacy against SSc-ILD to date, its effects are temporary and not enough. Rituximab (RTX), the anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody, has recently shown efficacy in many autoimmune diseases. In SSc-ILD, RTX is also considered to be one of the novel treatment candidates. However, studies of SSc-ILD in Japanese treated with RTX have only a few case reports. Therefore, in this study, we retrospectively compared nine patients treated with RTX and 30 patients treated with CYC to investigate the efficacy of RTX treatment for Japanese anti-topoisomerase I-positive SSc-ILD patients. At the 24-month evaluation, the improvement rates of percent predicted of forced vital capacity and percent predicted of diffusing capacity of the lung carbon monoxide in the RTX-treated group were significantly higher than those in the CYC-treated group (20.6 ± 8.8% vs 1.1 ± 3.9%; P < 0.05 and 34.0 ± 6.0% vs -1.5 ± 2.8%; P < 0.01, respectively). In addition, skin thickness scores also showed a marked improvement from 13.5 points before the start of treatment to 5.8 points after 24 months by RTX therapy (P < 0.05). These results suggest that RTX treatment is more effective for Japanese SSc-ILD patients than CYC treatment. In the future, it is expected that large-scale clinical trials will show the usefulness of RTX treatment for SSc-ILD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Satoshi Ebata
- Department of Dermatology, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Ayumi Yoshizaki
- Department of Dermatology, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takemichi Fukasawa
- Department of Dermatology, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shunsuke Miura
- Department of Dermatology, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takehiro Takahashi
- Department of Dermatology, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hayakazu Sumida
- Department of Dermatology, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yoshihide Asano
- Department of Dermatology, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shinichi Sato
- Department of Dermatology, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
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Evaluation of pyrrole-2,3-dicarboxylate derivatives: Synthesis, DFT analysis, molecular docking, virtual screening and in vitro anti-hepatic cancer study. J Mol Struct 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.molstruc.2018.08.049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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8
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Nguyen-Huu K, Palat S, Sparsa A, Darodes N, Fauchais A, Ly K. Effets du rituximab dans la sclérodermie systémique diffuse, à propos de 3 cas. Rev Med Interne 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.revmed.2018.03.108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
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9
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Klavdianou K, Liossis SN, Daoussis D. Dkk1: A key molecule in joint remodelling and fibrosis. Mediterr J Rheumatol 2017; 28:174-182. [PMID: 32185280 PMCID: PMC7045998 DOI: 10.31138/mjr.28.4.174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2017] [Revised: 07/20/2017] [Accepted: 08/25/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Dickkopf-1 (Dkk-1) is a Wnt signaling pathway inhibitor that has been shown to play an important role in joint remodeling, in experimental models of arthritis and in humans. Recent data suggest that this molecule is involved in the fibrotic process as well.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kalliopi Klavdianou
- Department of Rheumatology, University of Patras Medical School, Patras University Hospital, Patras, Greece
| | - Stamatis-Nick Liossis
- Department of Rheumatology, University of Patras Medical School, Patras University Hospital, Patras, Greece
| | - Dimitrios Daoussis
- Department of Rheumatology, University of Patras Medical School, Patras University Hospital, Patras, Greece
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10
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Tocilizumab is a promising treatment option for therapy resistant juvenile localized scleroderma patients. JOURNAL OF SCLERODERMA AND RELATED DISORDERS 2017. [DOI: 10.5301/jsrd.5000259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Introduction Juvenile localized scleroderma (jlSc) usually responds well to treatment with methotrexate or mycophenolate. In case of nonresponse or partial response, tocilizumab (TOC) appears to be a promising option. Methods Participants of the Pediatric Rheumatology Email Board were asked to report patients with jlSc treated with TOC. Results Six centers responded and reported 11 patients. The mean age at disease onset was 5.5 years. Disease duration at time of the initiation of TOC was 4.5 years. A total of 5 patients had linear subtype, 2 Parry Romberg syndrome, and 1 morphea en coup de sabre. Three had a generalized subtype, 2 a mixed subtype, and 1 a limited subtype/morphea. Before starting TOC, 10 of 11 patients received methotrexate, 7/11 combination methotrexate and mycophenolate, 1 abatacept, and 1 antitumor necrosis factor therapy. The indications for starting TOC were: (i) an increase in the score of the Localized Scleroderma Activity Index (mLoSSI) in 9 patients; and (ii) evidence of increased extra-cutaneous activity in 2 patients. The mean duration of TOC therapy was 14.75 months. Three of 11 patients received TOC as monotherapy, and 8/11 as combination therapy. Therapy success was reflected by a decreased mLoSSI in 9/11 patients, no new lesion occurrence, and – with Parry Romberg syndrome subtype – no increase in facial atrophy. In 8/8 patients, both the physicians’ and patients’ global assessment of disease activity decreased. In 3/3 patients, the number of active joints decreased. The mean modified Rodnan skin score decreased from 8.7 to 5.6. Conclusions In this small cohort of patients, TOC seems to be a promising rescue medication.
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Solanki KK, Hor C, Chang WSJ, Frampton C, White DHN. Clinical utility of hypo- and hyperpigmentation of skin in diffuse cutaneous systemic sclerosis. Int J Rheum Dis 2017; 20:767-773. [DOI: 10.1111/1756-185x.13049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Kamal K. Solanki
- Rheumatology Department; Waikato Hospital; Hamilton New Zealand
- Waikato Clinical School; University of Auckland; Auckland New Zealand
| | - Cecil Hor
- Western Hospital; Melbourne Victoria Australia
| | | | | | - Douglas H. N. White
- Rheumatology Department; Waikato Hospital; Hamilton New Zealand
- Waikato Clinical School; University of Auckland; Auckland New Zealand
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12
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Abstract
Rheumatology continues to be an exciting and vibrant specialty for specialists practising in New Zealand and Australia. Clinicians follow treat-to-target regimens to manage peripheral and axial inflammatory arthritides using conventional and biological agents, which have revolutionised management of rheumatic disease over the past two decades. However, optimal clinical practice has significant pharmacoeconomic implications which impact on health funding at a national level, and the advent of biosimilars is keenly awaited. The management of non-inflammatory rheumatic disease and the lack of effective disease-suppressing pharmacologic therapy for osteoarthritis continue to challenge clinicians. We are fortunate in having world-class rheumatology research in our region with basic scientists and clinical rheumatologists spearheading investigations, the ultimate aim of which is to improve the quality of life for our patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fiona M F McQueen
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Pathology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, 85 Park Rd., Grafton, Auckland, New Zealand.
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13
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Mohammed AGA, Alshihre A, Al-Homood IA. Rituximab treatment in patients with systemic sclerosis and interstitial lung disease. Ann Thorac Med 2017; 12:294-297. [PMID: 29118864 PMCID: PMC5656950 DOI: 10.4103/atm.atm_30_17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
There is increasing interest in rituximab (RTX) as an alternative to cyclophosphamide for the treatment of interstitial lung diseases (ILDs) associated with systemic sclerosis (SSc). However, no report has addressed its efficacy in Saudi patients with SSc-ILD. To assess the efficacy of RTX treatment in Saudi patients with SSc-ILD, hospital records were reviewed between 2013 and 2016. Four female patients received at least 4 cycles of RTX (I cycle, consisting of two infusions of 1000 mg 2 weeks apart). Pulmonary function tests (PFTs) and chest high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) were performed before and after treatment to assess the response. HRCT revealed improvement in one patient, stable disease in two patients, and worsening in one patient. Moreover, RTX prevented the further decline of forced vital capacity significantly in PFT. These results provide further evidence that RTX is an effective treatment for SSc-ILD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdel Gaffar A Mohammed
- Department of Medical Specialties, Rheumatology Section, King Fahad Medical City, Riyadh, KSA
| | - Ammar Alshihre
- Department of Medical Specialties, Rheumatology Section, King Fahad Medical City, Riyadh, KSA
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Ebata S, Yoshizaki A, Fukasawa T, Nakamura K, Yamashita T, Miura S, Saigusa R, Ichimura Y, Takahashi T, Hirabayashi M, Taniguchi T, Akamata K, Asano Y, Sato S. Unprecedented success of rituximab therapy for prednisolone- and immunosuppressant-resistant systemic sclerosis-associated interstitial lung disease. Scand J Rheumatol 2016; 46:247-252. [PMID: 27900875 DOI: 10.1080/03009742.2016.1231341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- S Ebata
- a Department of Dermatology, Faculty of Medicine , University of Tokyo , Tokyo , Japan
| | - A Yoshizaki
- a Department of Dermatology, Faculty of Medicine , University of Tokyo , Tokyo , Japan
| | - T Fukasawa
- a Department of Dermatology, Faculty of Medicine , University of Tokyo , Tokyo , Japan
| | - K Nakamura
- a Department of Dermatology, Faculty of Medicine , University of Tokyo , Tokyo , Japan
| | - T Yamashita
- a Department of Dermatology, Faculty of Medicine , University of Tokyo , Tokyo , Japan
| | - S Miura
- a Department of Dermatology, Faculty of Medicine , University of Tokyo , Tokyo , Japan
| | - R Saigusa
- a Department of Dermatology, Faculty of Medicine , University of Tokyo , Tokyo , Japan
| | - Y Ichimura
- a Department of Dermatology, Faculty of Medicine , University of Tokyo , Tokyo , Japan
| | - T Takahashi
- a Department of Dermatology, Faculty of Medicine , University of Tokyo , Tokyo , Japan
| | - M Hirabayashi
- a Department of Dermatology, Faculty of Medicine , University of Tokyo , Tokyo , Japan
| | - T Taniguchi
- a Department of Dermatology, Faculty of Medicine , University of Tokyo , Tokyo , Japan
| | - K Akamata
- a Department of Dermatology, Faculty of Medicine , University of Tokyo , Tokyo , Japan
| | - Y Asano
- a Department of Dermatology, Faculty of Medicine , University of Tokyo , Tokyo , Japan
| | - S Sato
- a Department of Dermatology, Faculty of Medicine , University of Tokyo , Tokyo , Japan
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Daoussis D, Melissaropoulos K, Sakellaropoulos G, Antonopoulos I, Markatseli TE, Simopoulou T, Georgiou P, Andonopoulos AP, Drosos AA, Sakkas L, Liossis SN. A multicenter, open-label, comparative study of B-cell depletion therapy with Rituximab for systemic sclerosis-associated interstitial lung disease. Semin Arthritis Rheum 2016; 46:625-631. [PMID: 27839742 DOI: 10.1016/j.semarthrit.2016.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 135] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2016] [Revised: 10/05/2016] [Accepted: 10/07/2016] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Rituximab (RTX) may favorably affect lung function and skin fibrosis in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc). We aimed to assess long-term efficacy and safety of RTX in SSc compared to standard treatment. METHODS A total of 51 patients with SSc-associated interstitial lung disease were recruited and treated with RTX (n = 33) or conventional treatment (n = 18). Median follow-up was 4 years (range: 1-7). Conventional treatment consisted of azathioprine (n = 2), methotrexate (n = 6), and mycophenolate mofetil (n = 10). RESULTS Patients in the RTX group showed an increase in FVC at 2 years (mean ± SD of FVC: 80.60 ± 21.21 vs 86.90 ± 20.56 at baseline vs 2 years, respectively, p = 0.041 compared to baseline). In sharp contrast, patients in the control group had no change in FVC during the first 2 years of follow-up. At the 7 year time point the remaining patients in the RTX group (n = 5) had higher FVC compared to baseline (mean ± SD of FVC: 91.60 ± 14.81, p = 0.158 compared to baseline) in contrast to patients in the control group (n = 9) where FVC deteriorated (p < 0.01, compared to baseline). Direct comparison between the 2 groups showed a significant benefit for the RTX group in FVC (p = 0.013). Improvement of skin thickening was found in both the RTX and the standard treatment group; however, direct comparison between groups strongly favored RTX at all-time points. Adverse events were comparable between groups. CONCLUSIONS Our data indicate that RTX has a beneficial effect on lung function and skin fibrosis in patients with SSc. Randomized controlled studies are highly needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dimitrios Daoussis
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Patras University Hospital, University of Patras Medical School, 26504 Rion, Patras, Greece.
| | - Konstantinos Melissaropoulos
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Patras University Hospital, University of Patras Medical School, 26504 Rion, Patras, Greece
| | | | - Ioannis Antonopoulos
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Patras University Hospital, University of Patras Medical School, 26504 Rion, Patras, Greece
| | - Theodora E Markatseli
- Department of Rheumatology, Ioannina University Hospital, University of Ioannina Medical School, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Theodora Simopoulou
- Department of Rheumatology, Larissa University Hospital, University of Thessaly Medical School, Larissa, Greece
| | | | - Andrew P Andonopoulos
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Patras University Hospital, University of Patras Medical School, 26504 Rion, Patras, Greece
| | - Alexandros A Drosos
- Department of Rheumatology, Ioannina University Hospital, University of Ioannina Medical School, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Lazaros Sakkas
- Department of Rheumatology, Larissa University Hospital, University of Thessaly Medical School, Larissa, Greece
| | - Stamatis-Nick Liossis
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Patras University Hospital, University of Patras Medical School, 26504 Rion, Patras, Greece
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Vilela VS, Maretti GB, Gama LMDS, Costa CHD, Rufino RL, Levy RA. Rituximab for the therapy of systemic sclerosis: a series of 10 cases in a single center. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2016; 56:458-463. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rbre.2016.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2015] [Accepted: 04/04/2016] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Vilela VS, Maretti GB, Silva Gama LMD, Costa CHD, Rufino RL, Levy RA. Tratamento da esclerose sistêmica com rituximabe: uma série de 10 casos em centro único. REVISTA BRASILEIRA DE REUMATOLOGIA 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rbr.2016.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
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Daoussis D, Tsamandas A, Antonopoulos I, Filippopoulou A, Papachristou DJ, Papachristou NI, Andonopoulos AP, Liossis SN. B cell depletion therapy upregulates Dkk-1 skin expression in patients with systemic sclerosis: association with enhanced resolution of skin fibrosis. Arthritis Res Ther 2016; 18:118. [PMID: 27208972 PMCID: PMC4875588 DOI: 10.1186/s13075-016-1017-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2015] [Accepted: 05/11/2016] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Rituximab (RTX) may favorably affect skin and lung fibrosis in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc); however, the underlying molecular mechanisms remain unknown. We aimed to explore the hypothesis that RTX may mediate its antifibrotic effects by regulating the expression of Dickkopf-1 (Dkk-1), an inhibitor of the Wnt pathway. METHODS Fourteen patients with SSc and five healthy subjects were recruited. Dkk-1 expression was immunohistochemically assessed in skin biopsies obtained from 11 patients with SSc (8 treated with RTX and 3 with standard treatment), whereas DKK1 gene expression was assessed in 3 patients prior to and following RTX administration. RESULTS In baseline biopsies obtained from all patients with SSc but not in healthy subjects, Dkk-1 was undetectable in skin fibroblasts. Following RTX treatment, four out of eight patients had obvious upregulation of Dkk-1 skin expression. Similarly, RTX treatment correlated with a significant 4.8-fold upregulation of DKK1 gene expression (p = 0.030). In contrast, TGFβ expression in the upper dermis was significantly attenuated following treatment. Moreover, this decreased expression of TGFβ in the skin was significantly more pronounced in the subgroup of patients with Dkk-1 upregulation. In this subgroup TGFβ was downregulated by 50.88 % in contrast to only 15.98 % in patients who did not have Dkk-1 upregulation (p = 0.022). CONCLUSIONS This is the first study demonstrating a link between B cell depletion and skin Dkk-1 upregulation in patients with SSc. RTX-mediated B cell depletion may mechanistically function via the recently established TGFβ-Dkk-1 axis in improving skin fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dimitrios Daoussis
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Patras University Hospital, University of Patras Medical School, Rion, Patras, 26504, Greece.
| | - Athanassios Tsamandas
- Department of Patholology, Patras University Hospital, University of Patras Medical School, Patras, Greece
| | - Ioannis Antonopoulos
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Patras University Hospital, University of Patras Medical School, Rion, Patras, 26504, Greece
| | - Alexandra Filippopoulou
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Patras University Hospital, University of Patras Medical School, Rion, Patras, 26504, Greece
| | - Dionysios J Papachristou
- Department of Anatomy-Histology-Embryology, Laboratory of Bone and Soft Tissue Studies, University of Patras Medical School, Patras, Greece
| | - Nicholaos I Papachristou
- Department of Anatomy-Histology-Embryology, Laboratory of Bone and Soft Tissue Studies, University of Patras Medical School, Patras, Greece
| | - Andrew P Andonopoulos
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Patras University Hospital, University of Patras Medical School, Rion, Patras, 26504, Greece
| | - Stamatis-Nick Liossis
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Patras University Hospital, University of Patras Medical School, Rion, Patras, 26504, Greece
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Morrisroe K, Frech T, Schniering J, Maurer B, Nikpour M. Systemic sclerosis: The need for structured care. Best Pract Res Clin Rheumatol 2016; 30:3-21. [PMID: 27421213 DOI: 10.1016/j.berh.2016.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Autoimmune connective tissue diseases (CTDs) have a propensity to affect multiple organ systems as well as physical function, quality of life, and survival. Their clinical heterogeneity, multisystem involvement, and low worldwide prevalence present challenges for researchers to establish a study design to help better understand the course and outcomes of CTDs. Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a notable example of a CTD, wherein longitudinal cohort studies (LCS) have enabled us to elucidate disease manifestations, disease course, and risk and prognostic factors for clinically important outcomes, by embedding research in clinical practice. Nevertheless, further efforts are needed to better understand SSc especially with regard to recognizing organ involvement early, developing new therapies, optimizing the use of existing therapies, and defining treatment targets. The heterogeneous multi-organ nature of SSc would lend itself well to a structured model of care, wherein step-up treatment algorithms are used with the goal of attaining a prespecified treatment target. In this chapter, we discuss the rationale for a structured treatment approach in SSc and propose possible treatment algorithms for three of the more common disease manifestations, namely skin involvement, digital ulcers and gastrointestinal tract involvement. We discuss possible strategies for evaluating and implementing these algorithms in the setting of LCS. We conclude by presenting a research agenda for the development of structured models of care in SSc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathleen Morrisroe
- Department of Medicine, The University of Melbourne at St. Vincent's Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia; Department of Rheumatology, The University of Melbourne at St. Vincent's Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Tracy Frech
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA; Salt Lake Regional Veterans Affair Medical Center, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Janine Schniering
- Division of Rheumatology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Britta Maurer
- Division of Rheumatology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Mandana Nikpour
- Department of Medicine, The University of Melbourne at St. Vincent's Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia; Department of Rheumatology, The University of Melbourne at St. Vincent's Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
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Mendoza FA, Mansoor M, Jimenez SA. Treatment of Rapidly Progressive Systemic Sclerosis: Current and Futures Perspectives. Expert Opin Orphan Drugs 2015; 4:31-47. [PMID: 27812432 PMCID: PMC5087809 DOI: 10.1517/21678707.2016.1114454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Systemic Sclerosis (SSc) is a systemic autoimmune disease characterized by severe and often progressive cutaneous, pulmonary, cardiac and gastrointestinal tract fibrosis, cellular and humoral immunologic alterations, and pronounced fibroproliferative vasculopathy. There is no effective SSc disease modifying therapy. Patients with rapidly progressive SSc have poor prognosis with frequent disability and very high mortality. AREAS COVERED This paper reviews currently available therapeutic approaches for rapidly progressive SSc and discuss novel drugs under study for SSc disease modification. EXPERT OPINION The extent, severity, and rate of progression of SSc skin and internal organ involvement determines the optimal therapeutic interventions for SSc. Cyclophosphamide for progressive SSc-associated interstitial lung disease and mycophenolate for rapidly progressive cutaneous involvement have shown effectiveness. Methotrexate has been used for less severe skin progression and for patients unable to tolerate mycophenolate. Rituximab was shown to induce improvement in SSc-cutaneous and lung involvement. Autologous bone marrow transplantation is reserved for selected cases in whom poor survival risk outweighs the high mortality rate of the procedure. Novel agents capable of modulating fibrotic and inflammatory pathways involved in SSc pathogenesis, including tocilizumab, pirfenidone, tyrosine kinase inhibitors, lipid lysophosphatidic acid 1, and NOX4 inhibitors are currently under development for the treatment of rapidly progressive SSc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabian A. Mendoza
- Department of Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, Thomas Jefferson University Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
- Jefferson Institute of Molecular Medicine, and Scleroderma Center, Thomas Jefferson University Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
| | - Maryah Mansoor
- Department of Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, Thomas Jefferson University Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
| | - Sergio A. Jimenez
- Jefferson Institute of Molecular Medicine, and Scleroderma Center, Thomas Jefferson University Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
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Matsushita T, Hamaguchi Y, Hasegawa M, Takehara K, Fujimoto M. Decreased levels of regulatory B cells in patients with systemic sclerosis: association with autoantibody production and disease activity. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2015; 55:263-7. [DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/kev331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2015] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
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