Internal medicine

Systemic lupus erythematosus

Disease

Quality of life (healthcare)

Belimumab

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)

Infectious disease (medical specialty)

Biology

Nursing

Intensive care medicine

Paleontology

Antibody

B-cell activating factor

Immunology

Lupus erythematosus

Hydroxychloroquine

B cell

Context (archaeology)

Medicine

Rheumatology and Therapy

Despite recent improvements in the treatment of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), disease activity, comorbidities and drug toxicity significantly contribute to the risk of progressive irreversible damage accrual and increased mortality in patients with this chronic disease. Moreover, even lupus patients in remission often report residual symptoms, such as fatigue, which have a considerable impact on their health-related quality of life. In recent decades, SLE treatment has moved from the use of hydroxychloroquine, systemic glucocorticosteroids and conventional immunosuppressive drugs to biologic agents, of which belimumab is the first and only biologic agent approved for the treatment for SLE to date. Novel therapies targeting interferons, cytokines and their receptors, intracellular signals, plasma cells, T lymphocytes and co-stimulatory molecules are being evaluated. In the context of a holistic approach, growing evidence is emerging of the importance of correct lifestyle habits in the management of lupus manifestations and comorbidities. The aim of this paper is to provide an overview of current pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatment options and emerging therapies in SLE.

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) Therapy: The Old and the New