[Recurrent infections in an ITP patient treated with rituximab]

Abstract

Common variable immunodeficiency (CVID) is a heterogeneous group of disorders characterized by hypogammaglobulinemia and recurrent infections. Various mechanisms have been implied in the disease pathophysiology. Patients with CVID are at increased risk of developing ITP (Immune Thrombocytopenia Purpura) and/ or AIHA (Autoimmune Haemolytic Anemia). Rituximab, a humanized anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody, is increasingly being used for autoimmune cytopenias including ITP and AIHA. This is a case history of a patient treated with Rituximab due to refractory ITP. A year after completion of therapy the patient started suffering from an increased frequency of infections. Six years after treatment with Rituximab the patient was diagnosed with CVID and IVIG replacement treatment was started. The main possibilities that this patient presents include aggravation of CVID, first presented as ITP, after Rituximab treatment versus CVID secondary to Rituximab treatment.