Abstract
This article focuses on the initial results achieved with the more selective immunosuppressive approach of B-lymphocyte depletion in patients who fail cyclophosphamide or have contraindications for its use in the treatment of antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA)-associated vasculitis (AAV). This novel approach has sparked hope for patients and physicians in their search for effective, well-tolerated therapy for AAV. B-cell depletion is now undergoing rigorous investigation in randomized clinical trials.
MeSH terms
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Antibodies, Antineutrophil Cytoplasmic
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Antibodies, Monoclonal / therapeutic use
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Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized
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Antibodies, Monoclonal, Murine-Derived
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Antirheumatic Agents / therapeutic use
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B-Cell Activating Factor / drug effects
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B-Lymphocytes / drug effects*
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B-Lymphocytes / immunology
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Churg-Strauss Syndrome / drug therapy
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Churg-Strauss Syndrome / immunology
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Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis / drug therapy
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Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis / immunology
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Rituximab
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Vasculitis / drug therapy*
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Vasculitis / immunology
Substances
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Antibodies, Antineutrophil Cytoplasmic
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Antibodies, Monoclonal
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Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized
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Antibodies, Monoclonal, Murine-Derived
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Antirheumatic Agents
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B-Cell Activating Factor
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epratuzumab
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Rituximab