Efficacy and safety of rituximab in the treatment of vasculitic leg ulcers associated with hepatitis C virus infection

Case Rep Rheumatol. 2012:2012:923897. doi: 10.1155/2012/923897. Epub 2012 Dec 16.

Abstract

Vasculitic leg ulcers are a cutaneous manifestation of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection often associated with cryoglobulinemia. Their treatment is difficult and is based on steroids and immunosuppressive drugs with an erratic response and a high probability of adverse reaction. We report three patients with vasculitic leg ulcers associated with hepatitis C virus infection who were treated successfully with rituximab. The pain control and healing were achieved quickly. No adverse effects with rituximab in these patients were presented.