Background Rituximab is a human/murine monoclonal antibody targeted at the CD20 antigen (cluster of differentiation antigen 20) on B-lymphocytes. The CD20 antigen is expressed in over 90% of B-cell non-Hodgkin's lymphomas. B cells are also believed to play a role in the pathogenesis of other oncologic and non-oncologic disorders. Targeting B cells appears to have a role in decreasing autoimmune and inflammatory processes, as well as antibody production in many autoimmune diseases. Rituximab is approved for the treatment of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL), chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in combination with methotrexate, wegener's granulomatosis, and microscopic polyangiitis in combination with glucocorticoids. Although rituximab is not approved for multiple sclerosis, myasthenia gravis, or other autoimmune diseases, it is commonly used later in the treatment course for patients that are not responding to other treatment options. Rituximab's main limitation is the occurrence of infusion-related reactions (IRR). These reactions can include fever, chills, rash, respiratory compromise, and a variety of other symptoms, including death. The incidence of IRR is known to vary depending on the rituximab indication. The incidence of IRR with the first infusion of rituximab is approximately 77% with NHL, 27% with RA, and 12% with wegener's granulomatosis and microscopic polyangiitis. The incidence of IRR decreases with subsequent infusions of rituximab to approximately 5-10%. According to the National Cancer Institute, there are 5 grades of IRR. In general, grade 1 reactions are classified as asymptomatic or only mild symptoms that do not require intervention. Grade 2 reactions are classified as moderate with minimal, local, or noninvasive interventions required. Grade 3 reactions are classified as severe and medically significant, but not immediately life-threatening. These reactions require hospitalization or prolongation of a current hospitalization. Grade 4 reactions are classified as life-threatening with urgent interventions required. Grade 5 reactions are classified as death related to an adverse drug event. The incidence of IRR is a chief concern for patients, nurses, and other healthcare providers.