Positive Direct Immunofluorescence Is of Better Value than ELISA-BP180 and ELISA-BP230 Values for the Prediction of Relapse after Treatment Cessation in Bullous Pemphigoid: A Retrospective Study of 97 Patients.

Background: ELISA-BP180 values and direct immunofluorescence (DIF) are prognostic factors for relapse after treatment cessation in bullous pemphigoid (BP).

Objective: To determine the relevance of ELISA-BP230 antibodies for predicting relapse 6 months after treatment cessation.

Methods: We retrospectively selected patients with BP and available data from ELISA-BP180 and -BP230 and DIF performed at treatment cessation.

Rituximab treatment of severe pemphigus: long-term results including immunologic follow-up.

Background: Rituximab (RTX) has been shown to be effective and safe for short-term treatment of severe pemphigus. Its long-term results remain unknown.

Objective: We sought to evaluate long-term RTX efficacy and safety in comparison with classic immunosuppressants for the treatment of severe pemphigus.