Rapid exacerbation of neuromyelitis optica after rituximab treatment

Abstract

Studies have shown the efficacy of immunosuppressants against neuromyelitis optica (NMO). Rituximab is recommended as an off-label prescription to treat refractory NMO. However, we describe two such patients who were suboptimally responsive to rituximab and whose symptoms worsened after treatment. Our cautionary cases highlight that in a small proportion of patients with refractory NMO, rituximab may either fail or induce rapid relapse of NMO. This suggests we need to consider new treatment strategies for refractory NMO.

Keywords: Neuromyelitis optica; Relapse; Rituximab; Therapy.