Rituximab in generalized myasthenia gravis: Clinical, quality of life and cost-utility analysis.

HIGHLIGHTS

Rituximab use in MG patients lead to the reduction of relapses and to a lesser use of immunosuppressive agents in our series.Rituximab use in our MG patients decreased healthcare costs after treatment, comparing to the pre-treatment period.Rituximab is a clinical effective treatment for B cell-related diseases like MG and seems to be a cost-saving intervention.

INTRODUCTION

Myasthenia Gravis is a humoral autoimmune disorder affecting the neuromuscular junction. Its treatment is based on immunosuppressive agents. Rituximab has shown efficacy in refractory and severe Myasthenia Gravis. We evaluate the potential pharmacoeconomic and quality of life benefits of its use.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of Myasthenia Gravis patients treated with Rituximab was performed. Clinical charts were reviewed and scales for assessment of quality of life were applied. Health care costs were estimated based on the average of each treatment and daily charge of hospitalization.

RESULTS

Six patients were treated. Rituximab use lead to the reduction of relapses and to a lesser use of immunosuppressive agents. An overall decrease in healthcare costs after treatment was observed along with an evident clinical improvement.

DISCUSSION

Rituximab is a clinical effective treatment for B cell-related diseases like MG and seems to be a cost-saving intervention. Its use is associated with a decrease in the need for other immunosuppressive treatments whilst improving quality of life and reducing health costs.