Subconjunctival Rituximab Administration for the Treatment of Scleritis.

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: Scleritis is a sight-threatening inflammation, which is commonly accompanied by severe complications. Aggressive systemic immunosuppressive treatment, which is frequently needed, can be associated with serious complications, and might therefore be (temporarily) contraindicated. METHODS: We report on the outcomes of three patients with severe, active, non-infectious scleritis, refractory or intolerant to systemic treatment, who received subconjunctival rituximab (RTX) injections. A dose of 2.5 to 7.5 mg was administered after topical anesthesia, and follow-up varied from 8 to 10 months. RESULTS: Subconjunctival RTX showed minimal to no effect on subjective symptoms, clinical features and/or ultrasound images. No serious adverse effects occurred. CONCLUSION: Further studies are needed to assess the effect of local administration of RTX in scleritis, but our limited observation is not promising.