Successful use of rituximab in granulomatosis with polyangiitis with aortic inflammation

Clin Exp Rheumatol. 2019 Mar-Apr;37 Suppl 117(2):144-147. Epub 2018 Sep 20.

Abstract

Large-vessel inflammation, although rare, has been increasingly recognised as a complication of granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA) in recent years. The presentation is highly variable, ranging from an incidental finding to aortic dissection and rupture. Treatment has predominately consisted of a combination of cyclophosphamide and high dose corticosteroids with surgical intervention when indicated. We present the case of a 34-year-old male diagnosed with GPA after presenting with sinus and eye inflammation and the ensuing investigation revealed large vessel involvement that remarkably improved after 6 months of treatment with the combination of rituximab infusions, methotrexate and corticosteroids.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Cyclophosphamide
  • Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis* / complications
  • Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis* / drug therapy
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Methotrexate / therapeutic use
  • Rituximab / therapeutic use*
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Vasculitis / drug therapy*
  • Vasculitis / prevention & control

Substances

  • Rituximab
  • Cyclophosphamide
  • Methotrexate