#1577 Rituximab in patients with primary podocytopathies: case series

Abstract Background and Aims Rituximab (RTX) has been reported as an effective treatment alternative in primary forms of minimal change disease (MCD) and focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) associated with steroid dependence and frequent relapses. However, the optimal RTX regimen and the outcomes of further doses of RTX remain unclear. This study aimed to evaluate the use of induction and maintenance RTX therapy for adults with primary podocytopathies. Method We performed a retrospective case series on adult patients with steroid-dependent podocytopathies who received an induction RTX therapy. Maintenance therapy was performed at physician's discretion. Remission and relapse rates, concomitant corticosteroids and immunosuppressants use, B-cell depletion and adverse events were analyzed. Results Fourteen patients (mean age at start of RTX 29.1 ± 21.9 years) with MCD (n = 7) or FSGS (n = 7) were treated with 2 doses of 1000 mg 2 weeks apart (n = 13) or four doses of 375 mg/m2 (n = 1) of RTX. At last follow-up (mean 47.3 ± 101.7 months) ten patients were in complete remission and two remained in partial remission. A reduction in the number of relapses, number of patients under corticosteroids and immunosuppressants, and dose of prednisolone was observed when compared to baseline [14 (100%) vs 5 (35.7%); 8/14 (57.1%) vs 4/12 (33.3%); 13/14 (92.9%) vs 7/12 (58.3%); 20 mg/day vs 5.25 mg/day, respectively]. Maintenance RTX therapy was used in six patients, with sustained complete remission. Infusion reactions were observed in four patients (one required treatment withdrawal). Conclusion Our findings support the use of RTX for a steroid-free remission in podocytopathies and suggest that maintenance RTX is well-tolerated and associated with prolonged remission. Further studies are needed to confirm its efficacy and safety and establish the optimal induction and maintenance RTX regimen in steroid-dependent podocytopathies.