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Current Rheumatology Reports
Published in: Current Rheumatology Reports 10/2018

01-10-2018 | Pediatric Rheumatology (S Ozen, Section Editor)

Induction Therapy for Lupus Nephritis: the Highlights

Authors: Isabelle Ayoub, Jessica Nelson, Brad H. Rovin

Published in: Current Rheumatology Reports | Issue 10/2018

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Abstract

Purpose of Review

Lupus nephritis is a frequent complication of systemic lupus erythematosus and is more common and severe in children. This is a disease of the immune system characterized by T cell, B cell, and complement activation, as well as immune complex formation and deposition. The introduction of steroids and later cyclophosphamide transformed lupus nephritis from a fatal to a treatable condition. However, the standard therapies currently used for treatment carry significant toxicity and chronic kidney disease still remains a far too frequent outcome. To address these issues, we will review current and emerging induction therapies in LN.

Recent Findings

Several clinical trials have been undertaken to test more effective and safer drugs, often targeting mechanistic disease pathways.

Summary

At present, it is difficult to identify an induction regimen that is more effective and less toxic than the standard of care; however, we believe continuing efforts in drug development will bring breakthrough agents to clinics.
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Metadata
Title
Induction Therapy for Lupus Nephritis: the Highlights
Authors
Isabelle Ayoub
Jessica Nelson
Brad H. Rovin
Publication date
01-10-2018
Publisher
Springer US
Published in
Current Rheumatology Reports / Issue 10/2018
Print ISSN: 1523-3774
Electronic ISSN: 1534-6307
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s11926-018-0766-9

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