1
|
Kostopoulou M, Mukhtyar CB, Bertsias G, Boumpas DT, Fanouriakis A. Management of systemic lupus erythematosus: a systematic literature review informing the 2023 update of the EULAR recommendations. Ann Rheum Dis 2024:ard-2023-225319. [PMID: 38777375 DOI: 10.1136/ard-2023-225319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To analyse the new evidence (2018-2022) for the management of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) to inform the 2023 update of the European League Against Rheumatism (EULAR) recommendations. METHODS Systematic literature reviews were performed in the Medline and the Cochrane Library databases capturing publications from 1 January 2018 through 31 December 2022, according to the EULAR standardised operating procedures. The research questions focused on five different domains, namely the benefit/harm of SLE treatments, the benefits from the attainment of remission/low disease activity, the risk/benefit from treatment tapering/withdrawal, the management of SLE with antiphospholipid syndrome and the safety of immunisations against varicella zoster virus and SARS-CoV2 infection. A Population, Intervention, Comparison and Outcome framework was used to develop search strings for each research topic. RESULTS We identified 439 relevant articles, the majority being observational studies of low or moderate quality. High-quality randomised controlled trials (RCTs) documented the efficacy of the type 1 interferon receptor inhibitor, anifrolumab, in non-renal SLE, and belimumab and voclosporin, a novel calcineurin inhibitor, in lupus nephritis (LN), when compared with standard of care. For the treatment of specific organ manifestations outside LN, a lack of high-quality data was documented. Multiple observational studies confirmed the beneficial effects of attaining clinical remission or low disease activity, reducing the risk for multiple adverse outcomes. Two randomised trials with some concerns regarding risk of bias found higher rates of relapse in patients who discontinued glucocorticoids (GC) or immunosuppressants in SLE and LN, respectively, yet observational cohort studies suggest that treatment withdrawal might be feasible in a subset of patients. CONCLUSION Anifrolumab and belimumab achieve better disease control than standard of care in extrarenal SLE, while combination therapies with belimumab and voclosporin attained higher response rates in high-quality RCTs in LN. Remission and low disease activity are associated with favourable long-term outcomes. In patients achieving these targets, GC and immunosuppressive therapy may gradually be tapered. Cite Now.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Myrto Kostopoulou
- Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology Unit, Attikon University Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens School of Medicine, Athens, Greece
| | - Chetan B Mukhtyar
- Vasculitis Service, Rheumatology Department, Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital NHS Trust, Norwich, UK
| | - George Bertsias
- Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University of Crete, School of Medicine, Heraklion, Greece
- Laboratory of Autoimmunity and Inflammation, Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Heraklion, Greece
| | - Dimitrios T Boumpas
- Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology Unit, Attikon University Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens School of Medicine, Athens, Greece
- Laboratory of Autoimmunity and Inflammation, Biomedical Research Foundation of the Academy of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Antonis Fanouriakis
- Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology Unit, Attikon University Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens School of Medicine, Athens, Greece
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Oiwa H, Suga T, Hosokawa Y, Araki K. Glucocorticoid-free remission in patients with SLE in the era of biologics: Immune complex disease is likely to benefit from current medications. Lupus 2024; 33:502-510. [PMID: 38470859 DOI: 10.1177/09612033241238055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/14/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES In addition to various immunosuppressive agents, belimumab and anifrolumab became available in Japan. We aimed to investigate glucocorticoid-free clinical remission in a single-centre retrospective cohort in October 2023. METHODS Our cohort included patients with SLE who needed to start or increase glucocorticoids for disease activity and were followed up for more than 1 year. We investigated the rate of achievement of clinical remission off corticosteroids (CR off C), defined as no clinical score on the SLEDAI-2K without glucocorticoids, baseline predictors of CR off C, medications used when CR off C was achieved, and flare rates following CR off C. RESULTS Out of the 60 patients followed for an average of 5.4 (±2.6) years, 17 (28.3%) achieved CR off C in 3.6 (±1.2) years after enrolment. Use of belimumab and anifrolumab accounted for eight (47.1%) of the achievers. Among the baseline data, male sex, recent enrolment, high glucocorticoid dose, and detection of immune complex (IC) significantly predicted CR off C, while lupus nephritis (LN) and a low C3 level tended to predict it. In the multivariate analysis, IC detection was the only predictor of CR off C. Clinical flares were observed in 5.9% of the achievers during a median 1.2 years after achievement of CR off C. CONCLUSION In the era of biologics, CR off C was achieved in 28.3% of the patient cohort requiring the start or increase of glucocorticoids for disease activity, with a relatively low rate of flares, suggesting that glucocorticoid-free clinical remission is an achievable target in SLE. IC disease, represented by male sex or nephritis, is likely to benefit from currently available medications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hiroshi Oiwa
- Department of Rheumatology, Hiroshima City Hiroshima Citizens Hospital, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Takeshi Suga
- Department of Clinical Immunology and Rheumatology, Hiroshima University Hospital, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Yohei Hosokawa
- Department of Clinical Immunology and Rheumatology, Hiroshima University Hospital, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Kei Araki
- Department of Clinical Immunology and Rheumatology, Hiroshima University Hospital, Hiroshima, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Kim JG, Jang S, Lee J, Ju JH, Kim WU, Park SH, Kwok SK. A single-centre retrospective study of factors affecting steroid-free remission of immunoglobulin G4-related disease conducted in South Korea: A notable outcome after complete resection. Mod Rheumatol 2024; 34:614-620. [PMID: 37022150 DOI: 10.1093/mr/road034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2023] [Revised: 03/03/2023] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 04/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Few studies have examined factors affecting steroid-free remission (SFR) in patients with immunoglobulin G4-related disease (IgG4-RD). The aim of this study was to investigate clinical factors affecting SFR in IgG4-RD. METHODS The medical records of 68 patients who met the 2020 revised comprehensive diagnostic criteria for IgG4-RD were reviewed retrospectively. SFR was defined as remission maintained for at least 6 months without corticosteroids. Cox regression analysis was performed to examine the associations between SFR and various clinical factors. The relapse rate after SFR was examined using the log-rank test. RESULTS After a median follow-up of 36 months, 30.9% (21/68) of patients with IgG4-RD achieved SFR. Multivariate Cox regression analysis revealed that IgG4-RD diagnosed by complete resection rather than by common diagnostic procedures was the only factor positively associated with SFR (hazard ratio, 7.41; 95% confidence interval, 2.23-24.60; P = .001). Furthermore, relapse after attainment of SFR was significantly less common in the group that underwent complete resection than in the group that did not undergo complete resection (log-rank P = .006). CONCLUSIONS Patients with IgG4-RD diagnosed by complete resection had a higher likelihood of achieving SFR and a lower rate of relapse after attaining SFR.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jung Gon Kim
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Ilsan Paik Hospital, Inje University College of Medicine, Goyang, Republic of Korea
| | - Sunhee Jang
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jennifer Lee
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Ji Hyeon Ju
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Wan-Uk Kim
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung-Hwan Park
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung-Ki Kwok
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Mathian A, Arnaud L, Ruiz-Irastorza G. Is it safe to withdraw low-dose glucocorticoids in SLE patients in remission? Autoimmun Rev 2024; 23:103446. [PMID: 37683819 DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2023.103446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023]
Abstract
Glucocorticoids (GCs) remain a cornerstone of the treatment of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE). Numerous studies have emphasized the risk of damage accrual in SLE patient treated with GC, but currently, it is not possible to dissociate favorable and undesirable effects of GCs because their underlying mechanisms are entangled at the molecular level. Here, we review whether available data suggest that it is possible, feasible and desirable to taper and discontinue GC treatment in SLE. The main potential concern with GC withdrawal is the risk of SLE flare, which is strongly associated with increased organ damage, mortality, healthcare costs, decreased quality of life and work productivity. While most studies have assumed the cut off point for low doses (e.g. 7.5/mg/d) as the limit for safety, it is still controversial whether lower doses may influence damage accrual long-term. Also, a recent randomized trial has shown that a daily dose of 5 mg of prednisone in SLE patients in short-term remission can prevent up to 50-75% of flares, with an acceptable safety profile. However, this treatment is not mandatory for all patients. Yet, several observational studies highlight that discontinuation of GC is associated with lower damage accrual. Currently, we do not have a reliable method to identify patients who may require long-term low-dose GC. Therefore, further research is needed to identify a subgroup at high risk of relapse who would benefit from continuing prednisone. In the meantime, when considering the discontinuation of very low-dose prednisone, the decision must be individualized, as HCQ and conventional immunosuppressive agents are not without risk of side effects.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alexis Mathian
- Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), Groupement Hospitalier Pitié-Salpêtrière, Service de Médecine Interne 2, Institut E3M, Inserm, Centre d'Immunologie et des Maladies Infectieuses (CIMI-Paris), Paris, France
| | - Laurent Arnaud
- Service de rhumatologie, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Strasbourg, Centre National de Référence des maladies auto-immunes et systémiques rares Est/Sud-Ouest (RESO), Strasbourg, France.
| | - Guillermo Ruiz-Irastorza
- Autoimmune Diseases Research Unit. Biocruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute. Universidad del País Vasco/Euskal Herriko Unibertsitatea, Bizkaia, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Cho J, Shen L, Huq M, Kandane-Rathnayake R, Golder V, Louthrenoo W, Chen YH, Hamijoyo L, Luo SF, Wu YJJ, Zamora L, Li Z, Sockalingam S, Katsumata Y, Harigai M, Hao Y, Zhang Z, Basnayake D, Chan M, Kikuchi J, Takeuchi T, Bae SC, Oon S, O'Neill S, Goldblatt F, Ng KPL, Law A, Tugnet N, Kumar S, Tee C, Tee M, Ohkubo N, Tanaka Y, Navarra SV, Lau CS, Hoi A, Morand EF, Nikpour M, Lateef A. Impact of low disease activity, remission, and complete remission on flares following tapering of corticosteroids and immunosuppressive therapy in patients with systemic lupus erythematous: a multinational cohort study. THE LANCET. RHEUMATOLOGY 2023; 5:e584-e593. [PMID: 38251484 DOI: 10.1016/s2665-9913(23)00209-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Revised: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Targets of treatment for systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) include the Lupus Low Disease Activity State (LLDAS), remission, and complete remission. Whether treatment can be tapered after attaining these targets and whether tapering is safer in patients in complete remission compared with LLDAS are unknown. We aimed to assess the odds of disease flares after treatment tapering in stable disease, versus continuing the same therapy. We also aimed to examine whether tapering in complete remission resulted in fewer flares or longer time to flare compared with tapering in LLDAS or remission. METHODS This multinational cohort study was conducted at 25 sites across 13 Asia-Pacific countries. We included adult patients aged 18 years or older with stable SLE who were receiving routine clinical care, had two or more visits and had attained stable disease at one or more visits. We categorised stable disease into: LLDAS (Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease Activity Index 2000 [SLEDAI-2K] score ≤4, Physician Global Assessment [PGA] ≤1, and prednisolone ≤7·5 mg/day); Definitions of Remission in SLE (DORIS) remission (clinical SLEDAI-2K score 0, PGA <0·5, and prednisolone ≤5 mg/day); or complete remission on therapy (SLEDAI-2K score 0, PGA <0·5, and prednisolone ≤5 mg/day). Stable disease categories were mutually exclusive. Tapering was defined as any decrease in dose of corticosteroids or immunosuppressive therapy (mycophenolate mofetil, calcineurin inhibitors, azathioprine, leflunomide, or methotrexate). Using multivariable generalised estimating equations, we compared flares (SELENA-SLEDAI Flare Index) at the subsequent visit after drug tapering. We used generalised estimating equations and Cox proportional hazard models to compare tapering attempts that had begun in LLDAS, remission, and complete remission. FINDINGS Between May 1, 2013, and Dec 31, 2020, 4106 patients were recruited to the cohort, 3002 (73·1%) of whom were included in our analysis. 2769 (92·2%) participants were female, 233 (7·8%) were male, and 2636 (88·1%) of 2993 with ethnicity data available were Asian. The median age was 39·5 years (IQR 29·0-50·0). There were 14 808 patient visits for patients in LLDAS, or remission or complete remission, of which 13 140 (88·7%) entered the final multivariable model after excluding missing data. Among the 9863 visits at which patients continued the same therapy, 1121 (11·4%) flared at the next visit, of which 221 (19·7%) were severe flares. Of the 3277 visits at which a patient received a tapering of therapy, 557 (17·0%) flared at the next visit, of which 120 (21·5%) were severe flares. Tapering was associated with higher odds of flare compared with continuing the same therapy (odds ratio [OR] 1·24 [95% CI 1·10-1·39]; p=0·0005). Of 2095 continuous tapering attempts, 860 (41·1%) were initiated in LLDAS, 596 (28·4%) in remission, and 639 (30·5%) in complete remission. Tapering initiated in LLDAS (OR 1·37 [95% CI 1·03-1·81]; p=0·029) or remission (1·45 [1·08-1·94]; p=0·013) had higher odds of flare in 1 year compared with complete remission. Tapering in LLDAS (hazard ratio 1·24 [95% CI 1·04-1·48]; p=0·016) or remission (1·30 [1·08-1·56]; p=0·0054) had a significantly shorter time to first flare than tapering initiated in complete remission. Attaining sustained LLDAS, remission, or complete remission for at least 6 months just before the time of taper was associated with lower odds of flare at next visit, flares in 1 year, and longer time to flare. INTERPRETATION Tapering of corticosteroids or immunosuppressive therapy in patients with stable SLE was associated with excess flares. Our findings suggest that drug tapering should be carefully considered, weighing the risks and benefits, and is best exercised in complete (clinical and serological) remission and after maintaining stable disease for at least 6 months. FUNDING AstraZeneca, BMS, Eli Lily, Janssen, Merck Serono, GSK, and UCB.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jiacai Cho
- National University Hospital, Singapore.
| | - Liang Shen
- National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Molla Huq
- The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | | | - Vera Golder
- Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | | | - Yi-Hsing Chen
- Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | | | | | | | - Leonid Zamora
- University of Santo Tomas Hospital, Manila, Philippines
| | - Zhanguo Li
- People's Hospital Peking University Health Sciences Centre, Beijing, China
| | | | | | | | - Yanjie Hao
- Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Zhuoli Zhang
- Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | | | | | - Jun Kikuchi
- Keio University and Saitama Medical University, Saitama, Tokyo, Japan
| | | | - Sang-Cheol Bae
- Hanyang University Hospital for Rheumatic Diseases, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Shereen Oon
- Department of Medicine, The University of Melbourne at St Vincent's Hospital, Fitzroy, VIC, Australia
| | - Sean O'Neill
- Department of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Kensington, NSW, Australia
| | - Fiona Goldblatt
- Royal Adelaide Hospital and Flinders Medical Centre, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | | | - Annie Law
- Singapore General Hospital, Singapore
| | - Nicola Tugnet
- Auckland District Health Board, Auckland, New Zealand
| | | | - Cherica Tee
- University of the Philippines, Manila, Philippines
| | - Michael Tee
- University of the Philippines, Manila, Philippines
| | - Naoaki Ohkubo
- University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Kitakyushu, Japan
| | - Yoshiya Tanaka
- University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Kitakyushu, Japan
| | | | - Chak Sing Lau
- University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China
| | - Alberta Hoi
- Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
6
|
Zucchi D, Cardelli C, Elefante E, Tani C, Mosca M. Treat-to-Target in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: Reality or Pipe Dream. J Clin Med 2023; 12:jcm12093348. [PMID: 37176788 PMCID: PMC10178979 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12093348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2023] [Revised: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/07/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Treat-to-target is a therapeutic approach based on adjustments to treatment at set intervals in order to achieve well-defined, clinically relevant targets. This approach has been successfully applied to many chronic conditions, and in rheumatology promising results have emerged for rheumatoid arthritis. For systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), defining the most meaningful treatment targets has been challenging, due to disease complexity and heterogeneity. Control of disease activity, the reduction of damage accrual and the patient's quality of life should be considered as the main targets in SLE, and several new drugs are emerging to achieve these targets. This review is focused on describing the target to achieve in SLE and the methods to do so, and it is also aimed at discussing if treat-to-target could be a promising approach also for this complex disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dina Zucchi
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Chiara Cardelli
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Elena Elefante
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Chiara Tani
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Marta Mosca
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Sawamura M, Sawa N, Ikuma D, Oba Y, Yamanouchi M, Sekine A, Mizuno H, Hasegawa E, Suwabe T, Hoshino J, Kono K, Kinowaki K, Ohashi K, Ubara Y. Successful Discontinuation of Glucocorticoid Treatment after Administration of a Calcineurin Inhibitor for Nephrotic Syndrome in a Patient with Lupus Nephritis. Intern Med 2023; 62:1037-1041. [PMID: 36070938 PMCID: PMC10125829 DOI: 10.2169/internalmedicine.0160-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Systemic lupus erythematosus was diagnosed in a patient at 43 years old. When proteinuria recurred at 57 years old, the first kidney biopsy was performed, and class IV-G (A) +V lupus nephritis was diagnosed. The prednisolone dose was increased to 40 mg/day, and cyclosporine A was introduced. After 1 year, proteinuria had decreased to 0.1 g/day. Prednisolone was discontinued three years later, and cyclosporine A was continued. Thereafter, proteinuria did not reoccur. At 67 years old, a second kidney biopsy showed complete remission of lupus nephritis. Cyclosporine A enabled permanent discontinuation of glucocorticoids in a patient with lupus nephritis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Masato Sawamura
- Nephrology Center and Department of Rheumatology, Toranomon Hospital, Japan
| | - Naoki Sawa
- Nephrology Center and Department of Rheumatology, Toranomon Hospital, Japan
- Okinaka Memorial Institute for Medical Research, Toranomon Hospital, Japan
| | - Daisuke Ikuma
- Nephrology Center and Department of Rheumatology, Toranomon Hospital, Japan
| | - Yuki Oba
- Nephrology Center and Department of Rheumatology, Toranomon Hospital, Japan
| | | | - Akinari Sekine
- Nephrology Center and Department of Rheumatology, Toranomon Hospital, Japan
| | - Hiroki Mizuno
- Nephrology Center and Department of Rheumatology, Toranomon Hospital, Japan
| | - Eiko Hasegawa
- Nephrology Center and Department of Rheumatology, Toranomon Hospital, Japan
| | - Tatsuya Suwabe
- Nephrology Center and Department of Rheumatology, Toranomon Hospital, Japan
| | - Junichi Hoshino
- Nephrology Center and Department of Rheumatology, Toranomon Hospital, Japan
- Okinaka Memorial Institute for Medical Research, Toranomon Hospital, Japan
| | - Kei Kono
- Department of Pathology, Toranomon Hospital, Japan
| | | | - Kenichi Ohashi
- Department of Pathology, Toranomon Hospital, Japan
- Department of Human Pathology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Japan
| | - Yoshifumi Ubara
- Nephrology Center and Department of Rheumatology, Toranomon Hospital, Japan
- Okinaka Memorial Institute for Medical Research, Toranomon Hospital, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Nakai T, Fukui S, Ikeda Y, Suda M, Tamaki H, Okada M. Glucocorticoid discontinuation in patients with SLE with prior severe organ involvement: a single-center retrospective analysis. Lupus Sci Med 2022; 9:9/1/e000682. [PMID: 35654482 PMCID: PMC9163542 DOI: 10.1136/lupus-2022-000682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 05/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Objective Long-term glucocorticoid use in SLE may have significant side effects; however, glucocorticoid discontinuation is occasionally associated with disease flare-ups. Therefore, we evaluated the risk factors for disease flares and the flare rate on glucocorticoid tapering in patients with prior severe organ involvement. Methods Data of patients with SLE with glucocorticoid tapering at our institution were retrospectively analysed. We divided the patients by the presence of prior severe organ involvement and compared flare rates after glucocorticoid discontinuation. Furthermore, we determined risk factors for flares after glucocorticoid discontinuation. Results In total, 309 patients with SLE were screened, 73 of whom met the inclusion criteria; 49 were classified as SLE with prior severe organ involvement. No significant differences were noted in the 52-week flare rate after glucocorticoid discontinuation between patients with and without prior severe organ involvement (16.7% vs 18.2%, p=1.0). Hypocomplementaemia, elevated anti-dsDNA antibody titres more than twice the upper limit of the laboratory reference range, positive anti-Smith/anti-ribonucleoprotein antibody, and use of any immunosuppressant on the day of glucocorticoid discontinuation were negatively associated with flare-free remission. Conclusions Glucocorticoid discontinuation after gradual tapering can often be achieved in patients with SLE, even with prior severe organ involvement, especially when the disease is clinically and serologically stable.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Takehiro Nakai
- Immuno-Rheumatology Center, St Luke's International Hospital, Chuo-ku, Japan
| | - Sho Fukui
- Immuno-Rheumatology Center, St Luke's International Hospital, Chuo-ku, Japan.,Center for Clinical Epidemiology, St Luke's International University, Chuo-ku, Japan
| | - Yukihiko Ikeda
- Immuno-Rheumatology Center, St Luke's International Hospital, Chuo-ku, Japan
| | - Masei Suda
- Immuno-Rheumatology Center, St Luke's International Hospital, Chuo-ku, Japan.,Department of Rheumatology, Suwa Central Hospital, Nagano, Japan
| | - Hiromichi Tamaki
- Immuno-Rheumatology Center, St Luke's International Hospital, Chuo-ku, Japan
| | - Masato Okada
- Immuno-Rheumatology Center, St Luke's International Hospital, Chuo-ku, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Mathian A, Pha M, Amoura Z. Response to: ‘Glucocorticoid withdrawal in lupus: to do or not to do?’ by Acharya. Ann Rheum Dis 2022; 81:e45. [DOI: 10.1136/annrheumdis-2020-217282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2020] [Accepted: 03/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
|
10
|
Ji L, Xie W, Fasano S, Zhang Z. Risk factors of flare in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus after glucocorticoids withdrawal. A systematic review and meta-analysis. Lupus Sci Med 2022; 9:e000603. [PMID: 34996857 PMCID: PMC8744100 DOI: 10.1136/lupus-2021-000603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2021] [Accepted: 12/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Glucocorticoids (GC) withdrawal is part of the targets in current recommendations for SLE, but relapse is the most worrying issue. We aimed to investigate the predictors for flare in patients with SLE after GC withdrawal. METHODS We systematically searched PubMed, EMBASE and Cochrane Library as well as Scopus databases up to 9 July 2021 for studies concerning predictive factors of relapses in patients with SLE after GC cessation. Pooled OR and 95% CI were combined using a random-effects or fixed-effects model. RESULTS 635 patients with SLE with GC discontinuation in 9 publications were eligible for the final analysis. Of them, 99.5% patients were in clinical remission before GC withdrawal. Serologically active yet clinically quiescent (SACQ) was associated with an increased risk of flare after GC withdrawal (OR 1.78, 95% CI (1.00 to 3.15)). Older age and concomitant use of hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) trended towards decreased risk of flare (weighted mean difference (WMD) -2.04, 95% CI (-4.15 to 0.06) for age and OR 0.50, 95% CI (0.23 to 1.07) for HCQ), yet not statistically significant. No significant association was observed regarding gender (pooled OR 1.75; 95% CI (0.59 to 5.20)), disease duration (WMD -11.91, 95% CI (-27.73 to 3.91)), remission duration (WMD -8.55, 95% CI (-33.33 to 16.23)), GC treatment duration (WMD -10.10, 95% CI (-64.09 to 43.88)), concomitant use of immunosuppressant (OR 0.86, 95% CI (0.48 to 1.53)). CONCLUSION Younger age and SACQ were potential risk factors of SLE flare among patients who discontinued GC. HCQ, but not immunosuppressant might prevent flare. GC withdrawal should be done with caution in this subgroup of patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lanlan Ji
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Wenhui Xie
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Serena Fasano
- Rheumatology Unit, University of Campania, Via S Pansini, 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Zhuoli Zhang
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Moroni G, Frontini G, Ponticelli C. When and How Is It Possible to Stop Therapy in Patients with Lupus Nephritis: A Narrative Review. Clin J Am Soc Nephrol 2021; 16:1909-1917. [PMID: 34162696 PMCID: PMC8729481 DOI: 10.2215/cjn.04830421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Glucocorticoids and other immunosuppressants still represent the cornerstone drugs for the management of SLE and lupus nephritis. The refined use of these drugs over the years has allowed us to obtain stable disease remission and improvement of long-term kidney and patient survival. Nevertheless, a prolonged use of immunosuppressive agents may be accompanied by severe and even life-threatening side effects. Theoretically, a transient or even definitive withdrawal of immunosuppression could be useful to prevent iatrogenic morbidities. For many years, however, the risk of SLE reactivation has held clinicians back from trying to interrupt therapy. In this review, we report the results of the attempts to interrupt glucocorticoids and other immunosuppressive agents in lupus nephritis and in SLE. The available data suggest that therapy withdrawal is feasible at least in patients enjoying a complete clinical remission after a prolonged therapy. A slow and gradual reduction of treatment under medical surveillance is needed to prevent flares of activity. After therapy withdrawal, around one-quarter of patients may have kidney or systemic flares. However, most flares may respond to therapy if rapidly diagnosed. The other patients can enter stable remission for even 20 years or more. The use of antimalarials can help in maintaining the remission after the withdrawal of the immunosuppressive therapy. A repeated kidney biopsy could be of help in deciding to stop therapy, but given the few available data, it cannot be considered essential.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gabriella Moroni
- Nephrology and Dialysis Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda, Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Giulia Frontini
- Nephrology and Dialysis Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda, Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico Milano, Milan, Italy
| | | |
Collapse
|
12
|
Ji L, Xie W, Zhang Z. Low-dose glucocorticoids should be withdrawn or continued in systemic lupus erythematosus? A systematic review and meta-analysis on risk of flare and damage accrual. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2021; 60:5517-5526. [PMID: 33576768 DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/keab149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2020] [Revised: 01/02/2021] [Accepted: 01/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the risk of flare and damage accrual after discontinuation of low-dose glucocorticoids (GCs) in SLE. METHODS We performed a comprehensive literature search of the PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library and Scopus databases from inception to July 2020 for studies concerning relapses/damage accrual in SLE patients. Pooled incidence rates of flare and time to flare with their 95% CIs after GC withdrawal were calculated. The summary risk ratio (RR) and 95% CI of flare/organ damage accrual risk were computed using a random- or fixed-effects model. RESULTS A total of 738 SLE patients with GC discontinuation in 17 publications were eligible for the final analysis. In the primary meta-analysis, the pooled incidence of flare was 24% (95% CI 21, 27) and 13% (95% CI 8, 18) for global and major flares, respectively. Pooled time to flare was 21.08 months (95% CI 9.32, 32.85). In the secondary meta-analysis, GC discontinuation showed an increased risk of flare compared with GC continuation [RR 1.38 (95% CI 1.01, 1.89)], but the risk of major flares was not increased [RR 1.77 (95% CI 0.40, 7.83)]. Moreover, GC withdrawal was associated with a borderline risk reduction in the SLICC/ACR damage index increase compared with GC continuation [RR 0.64 (95% CI 0.38, 1.09)]. CONCLUSION GC discontinuation leads to a slightly increased risk of flare, however, no increase in major flare and a borderline reduction of risk in further damage in SLE patients. Baseline screening for candidate patients and long-term follow-up after GC withdrawal are needed to reliably evaluate the organ damage increase.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lanlan Ji
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Wenhui Xie
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Zhuoli Zhang
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Fischer-Betz R, Schneider M. [Deescalation and glucocorticoid-free treatment in SLE]. Z Rheumatol 2021; 80:332-338. [PMID: 33721043 DOI: 10.1007/s00393-021-00981-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Treatment of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) without permanent glucocorticoid therapy is inconceivable for most patients and their physicians. Although we have significantly improved the prognosis of SLE, management remains constrained by a lack of effective, targeted therapies and the lack of evidence-based approaches to the use of existing compounds. For example, for glucocorticoids (GC), which are used continuously in a majority of patients, there are no evidence-based recommendations for initiation, tapering, and cessation in the treatment of SLE. Even today, GC are without alternatives in acute situations, especially organ- or life-threatening ones. However, due to the known long-term adverse effects, the role of GC is viewed increasingly critically. Long-term data from cohorts show that the use of GC actually contributes to morbidity and mortality in SLE. Strategies to reduce the use of GC in SLE are therefore urgently needed and are proposed in this paper.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Fischer-Betz
- Poliklinik für Rheumatologie und Hiller Forschungszentrum, Universitätsklinikum Düsseldorf, Moorenstr. 5, 40225, Düsseldorf, Deutschland.
| | - Matthias Schneider
- Poliklinik für Rheumatologie und Hiller Forschungszentrum, Universitätsklinikum Düsseldorf, Moorenstr. 5, 40225, Düsseldorf, Deutschland
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Fasano S, Coscia MA, Pierro L, Ciccia F. Which patients with systemic lupus erythematosus in remission can withdraw low dose steroids? Results from a single inception cohort study. Lupus 2021; 30:991-997. [PMID: 33709836 DOI: 10.1177/09612033211002269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A progressive tapering until withdrawal of glucocorticoids (GC) is considered one of the main goals of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) management. However, which patient may be a candidate for safe GC withdrawal has not been determined yet. This study aimed to evaluate the rate of low-dose GC withdrawal in SLE patients in remission and to identify predictors of flares. METHODS Eligible patients were SLE patients in prolonged clinical remission defined by a cSLEDAI = 0 for at least 2 years and on a stable SLE treatment (including daily 5 mg prednisone). Flares were defined by SELENA-SLEDAI Flare Index. Predictors of flares after GC withdrawal were analyzed by Cox regression. RESULTS We selected 56 patients in whom a GC withdrawal was attempted. 98 patients were in the prednisone maintenance group. The proportion of patients experiencing a flare was not significantly lower in the maintenance group than in the withdrawal group (p = 0.81). However, among the withdrawal group, the rate of flares was significantly higher in serologically active clinically quiescent (SACQ) patients (p < 0,0001). At Cox regression analysis, duration of hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) therapy and ≥5 year remission at withdrawal were protective factors, while a SACQ disease and history of lupus nephritis increased the risk of disease flare. CONCLUSION GC withdrawal is an achievable target in SLE and may be attempted in patients in complete remission.However, it might underline a caution in patients with SACQ disease who may be at greater risk forflare when GCare discontinued. HCQ therapy and durable remission can significantly reduce the risk.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Serena Fasano
- Rheumatology Unit, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Caserta, Italy
| | | | - Luciana Pierro
- Rheumatology Unit, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Caserta, Italy
| | - Francesco Ciccia
- Rheumatology Unit, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Caserta, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Mejía-Vilet JM, Ayoub I. The Use of Glucocorticoids in Lupus Nephritis: New Pathways for an Old Drug. Front Med (Lausanne) 2021; 8:622225. [PMID: 33665199 PMCID: PMC7921306 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2021.622225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2020] [Accepted: 01/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Glucocorticoids therapy has greatly improved the outcome of lupus nephritis patients. Since their discovery, their adverse effects have counterbalanced their beneficial anti-inflammatory effects. Glucocorticoids exert their effects through both genomic and non-genomic pathways. Differential activation of these pathways is clinically relevant in terms of benefit and adverse effects. Ongoing aims in lupus nephritis treatment development focus on a better use of glucocorticoids combined with immunosuppressant drugs and biologics. Newer regimens aim to decrease the peak glucocorticoid dose, allow a rapid glucocorticoid tapering, and intend to control disease activity with a lower cumulative glucocorticoid exposure. In this review we discuss the mechanisms, adverse effects and recent strategies to limit glucocorticoid exposure without compromising treatment efficacy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Juan M Mejía-Vilet
- Department of Nephrology and Mineral Metabolism, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán, Mexico, Mexico
| | - Isabelle Ayoub
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, United States
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Ichikawa K, Kirino Y, Kunishita Y, Kishimoto D, Takase-Minegishi K, Yoshimi R, Nakajima H. Initial hydroxychloroquine monotherapy in systemic lupus erythematosus: report of three cases. Mod Rheumatol Case Rep 2021; 5:259-264. [PMID: 33533686 DOI: 10.1080/24725625.2021.1881215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Glucocorticoids (GCs) use is associated with increased organ damage in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), and the treatment goal is to stop their use. Treatment with hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) without daily GCs may benefit patients by minimising the cumulative dose of GCs, but clinical experience with HCQ monotherapy is limited. To accumulate evidence for initial HCQ monotherapy in SLE, we retrospectively analysed three new SLE patients who visited Yokohama City University Hospital in 2015. The patients were all Japanese females with a mean age of 26.0 ± 5.3 years, high anti-dsDNA antibody titres, no major organ damage, and a mean pre-treatment Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease Activity Index 2000 (SLEDAI-2K) score of 9.3 ± 3.1. During the mean observation period of 3.8 ± 0.8 years, none of them received daily GCs or immunosuppressants, but one of the three patients were treated with short-term oral GCs and NSAIDs for a skin rash or arthralgia flairs. SLEDAI-2K was reduced to 3.3 ± 1.2. No other new SLE symptoms emerged, and the Systemic Lupus International Collaborating Clinics Damage Index (SDI) of them were maintained at 0. None of the patients developed HCQ-related retinal toxicity. Current experience with initial HCQ monotherapy suggests that such a therapeutic strategy may be useful in managing disease activity and preserving cumulative GCs in SLE patients without organ involvements.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kento Ichikawa
- Department of Stem Cell and Immune Regulation, Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Yohei Kirino
- Department of Stem Cell and Immune Regulation, Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Yosuke Kunishita
- Department of Stem Cell and Immune Regulation, Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Daiga Kishimoto
- Department of Stem Cell and Immune Regulation, Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Kaoru Takase-Minegishi
- Department of Stem Cell and Immune Regulation, Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Ryusuke Yoshimi
- Department of Stem Cell and Immune Regulation, Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Hideaki Nakajima
- Department of Stem Cell and Immune Regulation, Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, Yokohama, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Andrade SDO, Julio PR, Nunes de Paula Ferreira D, Appenzeller S. Predicting lupus flares: epidemiological and disease related risk factors. Expert Rev Clin Immunol 2021; 17:143-153. [PMID: 33393397 DOI: 10.1080/1744666x.2020.1865156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic autoimmune disorder, characterized by a relapsing and remitting pattern of disease activity in majority of the patients. Areas covered: This narrative review provides an overview of flare definition, major flare mimics, and the burden of flares in SLE. The authors highlight epidemiology and disease-related risk factor for flares and discuss strategies to reduce flares in SLE. Articles were selected from Pubmed searches conducted between June 2020 and September 2020. Expert opinion: Prolonged clinical remission is observed in approximately 20% of SLE patients flare over the course of the disease. Studies have shown that low disease activity is a good target in SLE, with similar risk of flares, mortality, and quality of life when compared to patients in remission. Clinical and immunological features have shown inconsistent results to identify patients at risk of flares in different cohorts. Cytokine, in serum and urine, has shown promising results to predict flares. However to be useful in clinical practice, they have to be simple, easy, and cost-effective. Future efforts in this direction will allow a more personalized treatment plan for SLE patients, reducing the burden associated with flares.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Samuel de Oliveira Andrade
- Department of Orthopedics, Rheumatology and Traumatology, School of Medical Science-University of Campinas, Brazil.,Autoimmunity Lab- School of Medical Science- University of Campinas, Brazil
| | - Paulo Rogerio Julio
- Autoimmunity Lab- School of Medical Science- University of Campinas, Brazil.,Graduate Student at Child and Adolescent Health Program- School of Medical Science- University of Campinas, Brazil
| | - Diego Nunes de Paula Ferreira
- Graduate Student at Child and Adolescent Health Program- School of Medical Science- University of Campinas, Brazil.,Rheumatology Unit-Department of Medicine School of Medical Sciences and University of Campinas (UNICAMP), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Simone Appenzeller
- Autoimmunity Lab- School of Medical Science- University of Campinas, Brazil.,Rheumatology Unit-Department of Medicine School of Medical Sciences and University of Campinas (UNICAMP), São Paulo, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Mathian A, Pha M, Amoura Z. [Therapeutic de-escalation in systemic lupus erythematosus in remission]. Rev Med Interne 2020; 41:795-799. [PMID: 33234319 DOI: 10.1016/j.revmed.2020.11.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2020] [Accepted: 11/15/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- A Mathian
- Sorbonne université, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, groupement hospitalier Pitié-Salpêtrière, Centre de Référence pour le Lupus, le Syndrome des anti-phospholipides et autres maladies auto-immunes rares, service de médecine Interne 2, institut E3M, Inserm UMRS, centre d'immunologie et des maladies infectieuses (CIMI-Paris), Paris, France
| | - M Pha
- Sorbonne université, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, groupement hospitalier Pitié-Salpêtrière, Centre de Référence pour le Lupus, le Syndrome des anti-phospholipides et autres maladies auto-immunes rares, service de médecine Interne 2, institut E3M, Inserm UMRS, centre d'immunologie et des maladies infectieuses (CIMI-Paris), Paris, France
| | - Z Amoura
- Sorbonne université, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, groupement hospitalier Pitié-Salpêtrière, Centre de Référence pour le Lupus, le Syndrome des anti-phospholipides et autres maladies auto-immunes rares, service de médecine Interne 2, institut E3M, Inserm UMRS, centre d'immunologie et des maladies infectieuses (CIMI-Paris), Paris, France.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Mathian A, Pha M, Yssel H, Amoura Z. Reducing lupus flares: should we be more careful about stopping glucocorticoids? Expert Rev Clin Immunol 2020; 16:539-542. [PMID: 32666853 DOI: 10.1080/1744666x.2020.1778466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Alexis Mathian
- Sorbonne Université, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Groupement Hospitalier Pitié-Salpêtrière, French National Referral Center for Systemic Lupus Erythematosus, Antiphospholipid Antibody Syndrome and Other Autoimmune Disorders, Service de Médecine Interne 2, Institut E3M, Inserm UMRS, Centre d'Immunologie et des Maladies Infectieuses (CIMI-Paris) , Paris, France
| | - Micheline Pha
- Sorbonne Université, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Groupement Hospitalier Pitié-Salpêtrière, French National Referral Center for Systemic Lupus Erythematosus, Antiphospholipid Antibody Syndrome and Other Autoimmune Disorders, Service de Médecine Interne 2, Institut E3M, Inserm UMRS, Centre d'Immunologie et des Maladies Infectieuses (CIMI-Paris) , Paris, France
| | - Hans Yssel
- Inserm UMR-S, Centre d'Immunologie Et Des Maladies Infectieuses (Cimi-paris) , Paris, France
| | - Zahir Amoura
- Sorbonne Université, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Groupement Hospitalier Pitié-Salpêtrière, French National Referral Center for Systemic Lupus Erythematosus, Antiphospholipid Antibody Syndrome and Other Autoimmune Disorders, Service de Médecine Interne 2, Institut E3M, Inserm UMRS, Centre d'Immunologie et des Maladies Infectieuses (CIMI-Paris) , Paris, France
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Mathian A, Pha M, Haroche J, Cohen-Aubart F, Hié M, Pineton de Chambrun M, Boutin THD, Miyara M, Gorochov G, Yssel H, Cherin P, Devilliers H, Amoura Z. Withdrawal of low-dose prednisone in SLE patients with a clinically quiescent disease for more than 1 year: a randomised clinical trial. Ann Rheum Dis 2019; 79:339-346. [PMID: 31852672 DOI: 10.1136/annrheumdis-2019-216303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2019] [Revised: 11/12/2019] [Accepted: 11/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To compare the efficacy to prevent flares of maintenance versus withdrawal of 5 mg/day prednisone in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients with clinically quiescent disease. METHODS A monocentric, 12-month, superiority, open-label, randomised (1:1) controlled trial was conducted with 61 patients continuing 5 mg/day prednisone and 63 stopping it. Eligibility criteria were SLE patients who, during the year preceding the inclusion, had a clinically inactive disease and a stable SLE treatment including 5 mg/day prednisone. The primary endpoint was the proportion of patient experiencing a flare defined with the SELENA-SLEDAI flare index (SFI) at 52 weeks. Secondary endpoints included time to flare, flare severity according to SFI and British Isles Lupus Assessment Group (BILAG) index and increase in the Systemic Lupus International Collaborating Clinics (SLICC) damage index (SDI). RESULTS Proportion of patients experiencing a flare was significantly lower in the maintenance group as compared with the withdrawal group (4 patients vs 17; RR 0.2 (95% CI 0.1 to 0.7), p=0.003). Maintenance of 5 mg prednisone was superior with respect to time to first flare (HR 0.2; 95% CI 0.1 to 0.6, p=0.002), occurrence of mild/moderate flares using the SFI (3 patients vs 12; RR 0.2 (95% CI 0.1 to 0.8), p=0.012) and occurrence of moderate/severe flares using the BILAG index (1 patient vs 8; RR 0.1 (95% CI 0.1 to 0.9), p=0.013). SDI increase and adverse events were similar in the two treatment groups. Subgroup analyses of the primary endpoint by predefined baseline characteristics did not show evidence of a different clinical response. CONCLUSION Maintenance of long term 5 mg prednisone in SLE patients with inactive disease prevents relapse. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT02558517; Results.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alexis Mathian
- Sorbonne Université, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Groupement Hospitalier Pitié-Salpêtrière, French National Referral Center for Systemic Lupus Erythematosus, Antiphospholipid Antibody Syndrome and Other Autoimmune Disorders, Service de Médecine Interne 2, Institut E3M, Inserm UMRS, Centre d'Immunologie et des Maladies Infectieuses (CIMI-Paris), Paris, France
| | - Micheline Pha
- Sorbonne Université, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Groupement Hospitalier Pitié-Salpêtrière, French National Referral Center for Systemic Lupus Erythematosus, Antiphospholipid Antibody Syndrome and Other Autoimmune Disorders, Service de Médecine Interne 2, Institut E3M, Inserm UMRS, Centre d'Immunologie et des Maladies Infectieuses (CIMI-Paris), Paris, France
| | - Julien Haroche
- Sorbonne Université, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Groupement Hospitalier Pitié-Salpêtrière, French National Referral Center for Systemic Lupus Erythematosus, Antiphospholipid Antibody Syndrome and Other Autoimmune Disorders, Service de Médecine Interne 2, Institut E3M, Inserm UMRS, Centre d'Immunologie et des Maladies Infectieuses (CIMI-Paris), Paris, France
| | - Fleur Cohen-Aubart
- Sorbonne Université, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Groupement Hospitalier Pitié-Salpêtrière, French National Referral Center for Systemic Lupus Erythematosus, Antiphospholipid Antibody Syndrome and Other Autoimmune Disorders, Service de Médecine Interne 2, Institut E3M, Inserm UMRS, Centre d'Immunologie et des Maladies Infectieuses (CIMI-Paris), Paris, France
| | - Miguel Hié
- Sorbonne Université, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Groupement Hospitalier Pitié-Salpêtrière, French National Referral Center for Systemic Lupus Erythematosus, Antiphospholipid Antibody Syndrome and Other Autoimmune Disorders, Service de Médecine Interne 2, Institut E3M, Inserm UMRS, Centre d'Immunologie et des Maladies Infectieuses (CIMI-Paris), Paris, France
| | - Marc Pineton de Chambrun
- Sorbonne Université, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Groupement Hospitalier Pitié-Salpêtrière, French National Referral Center for Systemic Lupus Erythematosus, Antiphospholipid Antibody Syndrome and Other Autoimmune Disorders, Service de Médecine Interne 2, Institut E3M, Inserm UMRS, Centre d'Immunologie et des Maladies Infectieuses (CIMI-Paris), Paris, France
| | - Thi Huong Du Boutin
- Sorbonne Université, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Groupement Hospitalier Pitié-Salpêtrière, French National Referral Center for Systemic Lupus Erythematosus, Antiphospholipid Antibody Syndrome and Other Autoimmune Disorders, Service de Médecine Interne 2, Institut E3M, Inserm UMRS, Centre d'Immunologie et des Maladies Infectieuses (CIMI-Paris), Paris, France
| | - Makoto Miyara
- Sorbonne Université, Inserm UMR-S, Centre d'Immunologie et des Maladies Infectieuses (CIMI-Paris), Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Groupement Hospitalier Pitié-Salpêtrière, Département d'Immunologie, Paris, France
| | - Guy Gorochov
- Sorbonne Université, Inserm UMR-S, Centre d'Immunologie et des Maladies Infectieuses (CIMI-Paris), Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Groupement Hospitalier Pitié-Salpêtrière, Département d'Immunologie, Paris, France
| | - Hans Yssel
- Sorbonne Université, Inserm UMR-S, Centre d'Immunologie et des Maladies Infectieuses (CIMI-Paris), Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Groupement Hospitalier Pitié-Salpêtrière, Département d'Immunologie, Paris, France
| | - Patrick Cherin
- Sorbonne Université, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Groupement Hospitalier Pitié-Salpêtrière, French National Referral Center for Systemic Lupus Erythematosus, Antiphospholipid Antibody Syndrome and Other Autoimmune Disorders, Service de Médecine Interne 2, Institut E3M, Inserm UMRS, Centre d'Immunologie et des Maladies Infectieuses (CIMI-Paris), Paris, France
| | - Hervé Devilliers
- Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Dijon, Hôpital François-Mitterrand, service de médecine interne et maladies systémiques (médecine interne 2) et Centre d'Investigation Clinique, Inserm CIC-EC 1432, Dijon, France
| | - Zahir Amoura
- Sorbonne Université, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Groupement Hospitalier Pitié-Salpêtrière, French National Referral Center for Systemic Lupus Erythematosus, Antiphospholipid Antibody Syndrome and Other Autoimmune Disorders, Service de Médecine Interne 2, Institut E3M, Inserm UMRS, Centre d'Immunologie et des Maladies Infectieuses (CIMI-Paris), Paris, France
| |
Collapse
|