Management of pediatric pemphigus vulgaris with rituximab: A case report and review of the literature

Pediatr Dermatol. 2022 Nov;39(6):960-966. doi: 10.1111/pde.15095. Epub 2022 Jul 24.

Abstract

Pemphigus vulgaris (PV), an acquired autoimmune bullous disease, is caused by autoantibodies targeting desmosomal proteins in the skin and mucous membranes. Recent data from the adult PV population supports the use of rituximab, a chimeric anti-CD20 IgG1 antibody, as a primary treatment strategy, but limited data exist regarding treatment in the pediatric population. We report the case of a 13-year-old male with PV treated successfully with systemic corticosteroids and rituximab, and review the literature supporting the treatment of pediatric PV with rituximab.

Keywords: management; pediatric pemphigus vulgaris; rituximab; topical corticosteroids; treatment.

Publication types

  • Review
  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Autoantibodies
  • Child
  • Humans
  • Immunologic Factors / therapeutic use
  • Male
  • Pemphigus* / drug therapy
  • Rituximab / therapeutic use
  • Skin

Substances

  • Rituximab
  • Autoantibodies
  • Immunologic Factors