Induced psoriasis after rituximab therapy for rheumatoid arthritis: a case report and review of the literature

Rheumatol Int. 2013 Nov;33(11):2927-30. doi: 10.1007/s00296-012-2581-3. Epub 2012 Nov 8.

Abstract

Rituximab is a human/murine monoclonal antibody targeting the CD20 antigen on B-lymphocytes surface. Although it has been licensed for treatment of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, nowadays it is also a novel therapy for autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus. Despite the increasing evidence regarding the safety and efficacy of rituximab in these conditions, many cutaneous adverse events have been reported. Here, we describe the case of a 69-year-old patient, affected by rheumatoid arthritis, who developed psoriatic lesions on her trunk and arms, three months after the second course of rituximab. Similar cases appearing in the literature will also be briefly mentioned.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Antibodies, Monoclonal, Murine-Derived / adverse effects*
  • Antibodies, Monoclonal, Murine-Derived / therapeutic use
  • Antirheumatic Agents / adverse effects*
  • Antirheumatic Agents / therapeutic use
  • Arthritis, Rheumatoid / drug therapy*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Psoriasis / chemically induced*
  • Rituximab

Substances

  • Antibodies, Monoclonal, Murine-Derived
  • Antirheumatic Agents
  • Rituximab