Efficacy of Rituximab in the Treatment of Pemphigus Vulgaris: A Meta-analysis.

ABSTRACT

Background: Pemphigus vulgaris (PV) accounts for about 80% of all patients with pemphigus, and is the type with the most serious condition and the worst prognosis among autoimmune bullous diseases. Glucocorticoid and immunosuppressor are the main treatment method for PV. Methods: The computer retrieves four databases obtain controlled trials on the effects of Rituximab in patients with pemphigus vulgaris. After a rigorous literature quality evaluation, data analysis was performed using RevMan 5.3 software. Results: 7 studies were ultimately included in this meta-analysis. 6 studies reported the Remission rate of the test group and the control group, which was significantly higher (OR2.26; 95% Cl 1.80,2.82; P < .01) than the control group. Meta-analysis showed that the improvement of the Recurrence rate was significantly lower than the control group (OR0.36; 95% Cl 0.20,0.67; P < .01). Meta-analysis showed that the Adverse reactions was no significant statistical significance than the control group (OR0.82; 95% Cl 0.53,1.28; P = .383). Conclusion: The results of this study suggest that Rituximab may be effective in patients with pemphigus vulgaris, which will bring light for patients and doctors. And the above conclusions need to be verified by more high-quality studies.