Successful use of combined corticosteroids and rituximab in a patient with refractory cutaneous polyarteritis nodosa

Abstract

Cutaneous polyarteritis nodosa is a rare subtype of polyarteritis nodosa that lacks significant internal organ involvement. It has a relapsing remitting nature and usually is less responsive to conventional treatments. We report a case of refractory cutaneous polyarteritis nodosa who failed three immunosuppressive therapies and three different biological agents. He was successfully treated with two rituximab 1000 mg infusions with a good efficacy and tolerance. This case demonstrates the safety and efficacy of rituximab in treatment of refractory cutaneous polyarteritis nodosa.