Severe neutropenia after rituximab-treatment of multiple sclerosis

Abstract

<p>We present here the first MS-case where rituximab-treatment led to grade IV <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/medicine-and-dentistry/neutropenia" title="Learn more about Neutropenia">neutropenia</a>, with hospitalization and treatment of a serious infection with <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/medicine-and-dentistry/broad-spectrum-antibiotic" title="Learn more about Broad-spectrum antibiotic">broad-spectrum antibiotics</a>. The neutropenia resolved promptly with granulocyte-colony stimulating factor-treatment and the patient recovered well. Due to risk of recurring neutropenia rituximab-treatment was not re-administered. We discuss the mechanisms and occurrence of neutropenia as a side effect to rituximab-treatment of MS, and remind of the importance of monitoring rituximab-treated MS-patients for this rare but potentially dangerous side effect.<br /></p>