Rituximab as prophylaxis in chronic relapsing thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura: a case report and review of the literature

Blood Coagul Fibrinolysis. 2012 Jun;23(4):338-41. doi: 10.1097/MBC.0b013e3283529184.

Abstract

Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) is a rare disorder that most often arises from inhibition of the enzyme ADAMTS13 by autoantibodies. This provides the rationale for the use of rituximab, an anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody, as an effective treatment. Multiple reports have indicated success employing it in patients with TTP, but only a few have reported its use during remission as a prophylaxis to prevent a relapse. Herein, we report the case of a patient with chronic relapsing TTP who was successfully treated with prophylactic rituximab. We also provide a review of the literature on this topic.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • ADAM Proteins / metabolism
  • ADAMTS13 Protein
  • Antibodies, Monoclonal, Murine-Derived / therapeutic use*
  • Enzyme Activation / drug effects
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Immunologic Factors / therapeutic use*
  • Middle Aged
  • Purpura, Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic / enzymology
  • Purpura, Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic / prevention & control*
  • Recurrence
  • Rituximab

Substances

  • Antibodies, Monoclonal, Murine-Derived
  • Immunologic Factors
  • Rituximab
  • ADAM Proteins
  • ADAMTS13 Protein
  • ADAMTS13 protein, human