Use of rituximab in conjunction with immunosuppressive chemotherapy as a novel therapy for Epstein Barr virus-associated hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis

Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis is a rare, life-threatening complication of Epstein Barr virus (EBV) infection. Current treatments are directed at reducing virus-induced immune dysregulation. Addition of agents that eliminate EBV-infected B cells may improve therapeutic efficacy. On the basis of the observations that the anti-CD-20 monoclonal antibody rituximab reduces disease burden in individuals with EBV-associated lymphoproliferative disorders, we treated a patient with severe EBV-hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis using a combination of rituximab and chemotherapy. This patient demonstrated a rapid clinical response and an 18-fold reduction in EBV viral load within 24 hours of receiving rituximab. He remains free of disease 8 months after completing treatment.