The clinical efficacy of Rituximab administration in autoimmunity disorders, primary immunodeficiency diseases and malignancies

Int Immunopharmacol. 2021 Jun:95:107565. doi: 10.1016/j.intimp.2021.107565. Epub 2021 Mar 24.

Abstract

Rituximab (RTX), as a monoclonal antibody-based immunotherapeutic intervention targeting CD20 on B cells, has proven efficacy in the treatment of patients with some immune-mediated diseases. In the present review, we provided information on the immunobiological mechanisms of signaling for RTX and its clinical applications, according to the immune-pathophysiology involved in the microenvironment of multiple diseases. We highlighted combination therapy, dose schedules, and laboratory monitoring, as well as the associated common and rare side effects to avoid. We also discussed the efficacy and safety of RTX-based therapeutic strategies and whether RTX therapy can be used as a promising treatment regimen for autoimmune diseases, primary immunodeficiency diseases, and malignancies. Our review highlights and supports the importance of collaboration between basic medical researchers and clinical specialists when considering the use of RTX in the treatment of various immune-mediated disorders.

Keywords: Anti-CD20 antibody; Autoimmunity; Malignancy; Monoclonal antibody; Primary immunodeficiency; Rituximab.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Antineoplastic Agents, Immunological / therapeutic use*
  • Autoimmune Diseases / drug therapy*
  • B-Lymphocytes / drug effects
  • B-Lymphocytes / immunology
  • Humans
  • Immunologic Factors / therapeutic use*
  • Lymphoproliferative Disorders / drug therapy*
  • Neoplasms / drug therapy*
  • Primary Immunodeficiency Diseases / drug therapy*
  • Rituximab / therapeutic use*
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Antineoplastic Agents, Immunological
  • Immunologic Factors
  • Rituximab