B-Cell Depletion Therapy - B-Lymphocyte Depletion Therapy Information

In late 2000, media reports hyped B-lymphocyte (b-cell) depletion therapy as a "cure" for rheumatoid arthritis. Although certainly not a cure, b-cell depletion therapy with a combination of the drugs rituximab, cyclophosphamide, and prednisolone showed promise as an arthritis treatment option. Research on b-cell depletion therapy is ongoing.

What Are Antibodies?
Antibodies can attach to antigens within our bodies to block their action.

What Are B-cells?
B-cells are white cells that produce antibodies.

Facts About Rituxan (rituximab)
Rituxan (rituximab) has been approved for use with methotrexate to treat rheumatoid arthritis.

06/13/2005 Update On B Cell Lymphocyte Depletion Therapy
06/13/2005, B cell depletion therapy is now in trials for a number of autoimmune conditions. In many of these conditions major improvement has been seen in a good proportion of cases in pilot studies, particularly in rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, dermatomyositis, autoimmune neuropathies, immune thrombocytopenic purpura and haemolytic anaemia, from University College London.

The Arthritis And Autoimmunity Homepage
Professor Jonathan Edwards, Dr. Jo Cambridge, Dr. Vikki Abrahams, Dr. Maria Leandro: Arthritis research and information website at University College London.

11/20/2000 B-Cell History: Rituximab In Treatment Of RA
11/20/2000, A number of high-profile media reports heralded a study on B-lymphocyte depletion as a possible cure for rheumatoid arthritis. Many patients and physicians have understandably expressed interest in the therapy, from ACR Hotline.

10/29/2000 B-Cell History: Scientists Closer To Arthritis "Cure"
10/29/2000, A new arthritis treatment by British scientists may lead to a cure. Initial trials of the drug treatment have exceeded all expectations with only two out of 20 patients showing no benefits, from BBC News.

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