Athanassiou, P.; Athanassiou, L. Current Treatment Approach, Emerging Therapies and New Horizons in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus. Life2023, 13, 1496.
Athanassiou, P.; Athanassiou, L. Current Treatment Approach, Emerging Therapies and New Horizons in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus. Life 2023, 13, 1496.
Athanassiou, P.; Athanassiou, L. Current Treatment Approach, Emerging Therapies and New Horizons in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus. Life2023, 13, 1496.
Athanassiou, P.; Athanassiou, L. Current Treatment Approach, Emerging Therapies and New Horizons in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus. Life 2023, 13, 1496.
Abstract
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), the prototype of systemic autoimmune diseases is characterized by extreme heterogeneity with a variable clinical course. Renal involvement may be observed and affects the outcome. Hydroxychloroquine is the cornerstone of lupus treatment. Conventional immunosuppressive therapy includes corticosteroids, methotrexate, azathioprine, cyclosporine and tacrolimus. Cyclophosphamide and mycophenolate mofetil may also be used. However, despite conventional immunosuppressive treatment flares occur and broad immunosuppression is accompanied by multiple side effects. Flare occurrence, target organ involvement, side effects of broad immunosuppression, increased knowledge of the pathogenetic mechanisms involved in SLE pathogenesis as well as the availability of biologic agents has led to the application of biologic agents in SLE management. Biologic agents targeting various pathogenetic paths have been applied. B cell targeting agents have been used successfully. Belimumab, a B cell targeting agent has been approved for the treatment of SLE. Rituximab, an anti-CD20 targeting agent is also used in SLE. Anifrolumab, an interferon I receptor targeting agent has beneficial effects on SLE. In conclusion, biologic treatment is applied in SLE and should be further evaluated with the aim of a good treatment response and a significant improvement in quality of life.
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