Successful treatment of refractory erythrodermic pemphigus foliaceus with low-dose rituximab and intravenous immunoglobulin.

BACKGROUND

Erythrodermic pemphigus foliaceus (EPF) is a severe, often refractory autoimmune disease.

METHOD: We report successful treatment of refractory EPF in a 59-year-old male using low-dose rituximab (RTX) and intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG).

RESULTS

Initial high-dose corticosteroids and IVIG failed, complicated by infections. A modified regimen of RTX (0.5 g) and IVIG (0.4 g/kg/day for three days) every two weeks for two cycles induced remission, with a mild relapse at six months successfully retreated. No infections occurred during 15-month follow-up.

CONCLUSION

This combined therapy using low-dose RTX and IVIG may be a safe and effective option for refractory EPF, potentially minimizing infection risk associated with standard RTX dosing. Further studies are warranted.