OBJECTIVE: This study aims to observe the clinical efficacy of low-dose rituximab in patients with
cryoglobulinaemia secondary to connective tissue diseases.
METHODS: Rituximab (100 mg) was infused in patients once a week for four weeks, combined with prednisone (20 mg) once a day, and reduced regularly. Treatment effect was observed regularly.
RESULTS: Joint pain, fever, rash and fatigue symptoms in patients eased. The serology (globulin, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, C-reactive protein, lactate dehydrogenase and others) parameters returned to normal.
CONCLUSIONS: Low-dose rituximab therapy for
cryoglobulinaemia secondary to connective tissue diseases was safe and effective, and can be used as a treatment option in this condition.