The late adverse events of rituximab therapy--rare but there!

Leuk Lymphoma. 2009 Jul;50(7):1083-95. doi: 10.1080/10428190902934944.

Abstract

Rituximab, an anti CD20 monoclonal antibody, has now become a cornerstone in the treatment of many CD20 positive hematological malignancies and a variety of autoimmune disorders. In contrast to the acute allergic and cytokine associated reactions, late adverse events of rituximab are indeed uncommon but at the same time probably under-reported. In this review, we detail late adverse events reported since its use in hemato-oncological neoplasias and other disorders. These adverse events include the development of late-onset neutropenia, defects of immune reconstitution with associated immune compromise, infections, progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy, reactivation of hepatitis, intestinal perforation and interstitial pneumonitis. Possible mechanisms involved in rituximab-associated complications and the pathogenesis of these adverse effects are reviewed and discussed. Evidence based graded recommendations for the management of these adverse effects are proposed.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Antibodies / chemistry
  • Antibodies, Monoclonal / adverse effects*
  • Antibodies, Monoclonal, Murine-Derived
  • Antigens, CD20 / immunology
  • Antineoplastic Agents / adverse effects*
  • Hematologic Neoplasms / drug therapy*
  • Hematologic Neoplasms / immunology
  • Hodgkin Disease / drug therapy*
  • Humans
  • Immune System
  • Immunotherapy / methods
  • Lymphoma / drug therapy*
  • Middle Aged
  • Rituximab
  • Time Factors

Substances

  • Antibodies
  • Antibodies, Monoclonal
  • Antibodies, Monoclonal, Murine-Derived
  • Antigens, CD20
  • Antineoplastic Agents
  • Rituximab