Severe pneumonia with formation of a pulmonary cavity associated with long-term rituximab therapy in multiple sclerosis
Abstract Nowadays B-cell depletion via anti-CD20 antibodies is commonly applied in the treatment of multiple sclerosis (MS). Yet, not much is known about infection risks associated with long-term B-cell depletion in the specific context of MS. We present the case of a 45-year-old male patient who de...
| Main Authors: | , |
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| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
BMC
2020-10-01
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| Series: | Neurological Research and Practice |
| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | http://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s42466-020-00074-0 |
| Summary: | Abstract Nowadays B-cell depletion via anti-CD20 antibodies is commonly applied in the treatment of multiple sclerosis (MS). Yet, not much is known about infection risks associated with long-term B-cell depletion in the specific context of MS. We present the case of a 45-year-old male patient who developed severe pneumonia following 6 years of rituximab treatment for highly active relapsing-remitting MS. The patient had no additional chronic disease as well as no history of foreign travel. Although the unusual formation of a pulmonary cavity raised suspicion for tuberculosis, repeated testing via bronchoscopy and sputum remained negative. Prolonged antibiotic therapy with piperacillin/tazobactam and amoxicillin/ clavulanate led to complete recovery from symptoms. This case shows the potential risk of serious infections following continuous B-cell depletion in MS and illustrates the importance of future vigilance. |
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| ISSN: | 2524-3489 |