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Rituximab-Induced Esophageal Ulcers and Strictures Presenting as Dysphagia

Abdulrazzak MA, Swied MY, Daaboul O, Azzawi M, Swied AM

ACG case reports journal, 2025

Abstract

Rituximab is a monoclonal antibody that targets CD20 on B lymphocytes and is approved for the treatment of multiple hematological and autoimmune disorders. Rituximab may cause gastrointestinal side effects such as colitis, diarrhea, and bowel obstruction or perforation. Infusion-related reactions, such as throat irritation, are, however, not linked to any specific esophageal disease. In this study, we report an extremely rare case of rituximab-induced esophageal ulceration and stricture causing progressive, debilitating dysphagia, highlighting the importance of early recognition and prompt management to prevent long-term morbidity.

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