Targeting B lymphocytes as therapy for ANCA-associated vasculitis.

This article focuses on the initial results achieved with the more selective immunosuppressive approach of B-lymphocyte depletion in patients who fail cyclophosphamide or have contraindications for its use in the treatment of antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA)-associated vasculitis (AAV). This novel approach has sparked hope for patients and physicians in their search for effective, well-tolerated therapy for AAV. B-cell depletion is now undergoing rigorous investigation in randomized clinical trials.