Abstract

Rituximab is a chimeric monoclonal antibody that targets CD 20 being used in the management of Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Pemphigus Vulgaris and Thyroid Ophthalmopathy. It is associated with hypersensitivity reactions like urticaria, fever, chills and bronchospasm.
Here, we present a case of a 43 year old woman who was prescribed Rituximab infusions for the treatment of biopsy proven Bullous Pemphigoid and developed transient, bilateral conjunctivitis within 6 hours of her second Rituximab (Mabtas) infusion which was mild transient and managed with low potency steroid eyedrops and lubricants.
The pathophysiology, although not clearly understood could be attributed to complement activation with the release of cytokines, decreased immunoglobulin levels and humoral function.
With the rapidly evolving clinical use of Rituximab, it becomes imperative to recognize its side effects both common and rare to improve patient care.