A Rare Case of Refractory Catastrophic Antiphospholipid Syndrome Successfully Treated With Rituximab and Plasma Exchange

A small subset of patients with antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) may develop widespread thrombotic disease with organ damage, referred to as catastrophic APS (CAPS) that is associated with a high mortality. Medical therapy typically involves a combination of anticoagulation, systemic glucocorticoids, plasmapheresis, and intravenous immune globulin (IVIG). There is currently no consensus for the management of refractory cases of CAPS. However, monoclonal anti-bodies such as rituximab and eculizumab have shown some benefits. Herein, we present a 29-year-old female with previous pulmonary embolism who presented with necrotic left toes and was eventually diagnosed with refractory CAPS, successfully treated with Plasmapheresis and Rituximab. With this case report, we hope to encourage the usage of Rituximab in the management of CAPS.

Automated summary

This article reports a case of refractory catastrophic antiphospholipid syndrome (CAPS) successfully treated with plasmapheresis and rituximab. It provides insights into the usage of rituximab in the management of CAPS.