Spectrum Library

1. Naznin A. Mahmood, MD
   1. 
      
      Section of Pediatric Neurology, University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL, USA

1. Kenneth Silver, MD
   1. 
      
      Section of Pediatric Neurology, University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL, USA

1. Karen Onel, MD
   1. 
      
      Section of Pediatric Rheumatology, University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL, USA

1. Michael Ko, MD
   1. 
      
      Department of Neurology, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL, USA

1. Adil Javed, MD, PhD ajaved@neurology.bsd.uchicago.edu
   1. 
      
      Department of Neurology, University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL, USA

Abstract

Neuromyelitis optica is a central nervous system disease characterized by optic neuritis and transverse myelitis. It is a devastating illness, and early treatment may prevent future relapses and severe disability. However, there is much variability in protocols used for treatment. In limited studies, rituximab has shown efficacy in adult neuromyelitis optica patients. There is a paucity of literature on the efficacy and tolerability of rituximab in the pediatric population. The authors report the use of rituximab in 2 pediatric patients with neuromyelitis optica, demonstrating its efficacy, dosing, and tolerability. This report may be a useful guide for administering rituximab safely in pediatric neuromyelitis optica patients.