In an almost 2-year follow-up analysis of 29 patients enrolled in the DESIRES trial, Kuzumi et al reported that rituximab therapy showed a continued benefit among patients with systemic sclerosis in terms of modified Rodnan skin score and percentage of predicted forced vital capacity, representing improved skin and lung fibrosis. These findings were published in JAMA Dermatology. Additionally, the investigators noted that serum immunoglobulin levels—including IgG, IgA, and IgM—may play a role in predicting response to rituximab therapy in this population.
April 30, 2023