Rituximab Therapy for Idiopathic Chronic Urticaria with Recurrent Angioedema

ABSTRACT

We report on 4 patients with severe and idiopathic chronicurticaria with recurrent attacks of angioedema. Initially, theyresponded initially to high dose corticosteroids yet relapsed onhigh-maintenance dose. Subsequently, trial to use steroidsparing drugs viz. intravenous immunoglobulin thenmycophenolate mofetil with hydroxychloroquine and tacrolimushad failed to maintain a remission. Hence, Rituximab wasgiven. One month after Rituximab infusions, Prednisone dosewas successfully tapered down and was discontinued.Subsequently, all patients remained in complete remission for14-24 months of follow up.