018 Evolution of autoreactive B and T cells in pemphigus patients with Rituximab or corticosteroida regimen treatment

Pemphigus is an autoimmune blistering disease mediated by autoantibodies (Abs) directed against desmogleins (Dsg). We recently showed that first line treatment with Rituximab (RTX) was more effective than standard oral corticosteroid (CS). To understand the immunological mechanisms that mediate the long-lasting clinical remission (CR) after RTX treatment, we analyzed the phenotype and antigen specificity of B cells and T follicular helper cells (TFH) by flow cytometry and the number of Dsg+ IgG Abs Secreting Cell (ASC) by ELISPOT.
Source: Journal of Investigative Dermatology - Category: Dermatology Authors: Tags: Adaptive Immunity and Autoimmunity Source Type: research