Rituximab‐induced psoriasis in a patient with pemphigus vulgaris: A case report and literature review

Abstract

Key Clinical MessageRituximab which is established as a main treatment for pemphigus vulgaris can be a potential causative factor for development of psoriasis in some patients. It is preferred to avoid using rituximab in patients who had a history of psoriasis. Acquainting medical doctors about rituximab‐related cutaneous complications will help them in detection and management.AbstractRituximab is a human/murine monoclonal antibody targeting the CD20 antigen on B‐lymphocytes surface. Although it is used as promising treatment for pemphigus, nowadays it is also a new therapy for other autoimmune diseases including systemic lupus erythematosus and rheumatoid arthritis, and others like non‐Hodgkin's lymphoma. Although there is increasing evidence regarding the safety and effectiveness of rituximab in these diseases, many cutaneous adverse effects have been reported. Here, we describe a 48‐years‐old patient affected with pemphigus vulgaris who developed psoriatic lesions on her on scalp, trunk, and extremities, 4 months after the second course of rituximab.