Pathogenic mechanisms contributing to thrombocytopenia in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus

Immune thrombocytopenia in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus

Immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) is a common hematological manifestation of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). The diversity of its clinical features and treatment responses may reveal the complex pathophysiological mechanisms of the disease. To enhance the therapeutic response rate and improve the prognosis for SLE patients with concurrent ITP, while reducing adverse events during the treatment process, it is crucial to accurately identify and apply clinical parameters to predict patients' responses to treatment. In addition to conventional therapeutic approaches such as glucocorticoids, immunosuppressants, and intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG), a range of emerging therapies are gradually becoming the focus of research. These innovative therapeutic strategies include thrombopoietin receptor agonists (TPO-RAs), targeted therapies against B-cells, and plasma cell-targeted treatments. With a deepening understanding of the role of platelets in immune and inflammatory responses, novel platelet-targeted therapeutic agents in the field of SLE-ITP treatment may demonstrate significant potential. Despite this, to ensure the clinical efficacy and safety of these therapeutic approaches, we must rely on rigorously designed randomized controlled trials (RCTs) for further validation. This article provides a systematic review of the pathogenesis of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) complicated by immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) and conducts a comprehensive overview of current treatment strategies. The article also provides an in-depth exploration of the key biomarkers that may influence the therapeutic response in SLE-ITP patients. This comprehensive analysis aims to elucidate the factors that potentially affect the efficacy of treatments and contribute to a more personalized approach to patient care.

Can Nutraceuticals Support the Treatment of MASLD/MASH, and thus Affect the Process of Liver Fibrosis?

Currently, metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) are considered to be the main causes of fibrosis. In turn, fibrosis may lead to the development of hepatocellular carcinoma or advanced cirrhosis, i.e., potentially life-threatening conditions. It is likely that therapy aimed at reducing the risk of developing hepatic steatosis and inflammation could be helpful in minimizing the threat/probability of organ fibrosis. In recent years, increasing attention has been paid to the influence of nutraceuticals in the prevention and treatment of liver diseases. Therefore, the aim of this review was to describe the precise role of selected ingredients such as vitamin C, beta-carotene, omega-3 fatty acids, and curcumin. It is likely that the use of these ingredients in the treatment of patients with MASLD/MASH, along with behavioral and pharmacological therapy, may have a beneficial effect on combating inflammation, reducing oxidative stress, and thereby preventing liver damage.

Systemic lupus erythematosus-complicating immune thrombocytopenia: From pathogenesis to treatment

Immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) is a common hematological manifestation of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). The heterogeneity of its clinical characteristics and therapeutic responses reflects a complex pathogenesis. A better understanding of its pathophysiological mechanisms and employing an optimal treatment regimen is therefore important to improve the response rate and prognosis, and avoid unwanted outcomes. Besides glucocorticoids, traditional immunosuppressants (i.e. cyclosporine, mycophenolate mofetil) and intravenous immunoglobulins, new therapies are emerging and promising for the treatment of intractable SLE-ITP, such as thrombopoietin receptor agonists (TPO-RAs), platelet desialylation inhibitors(i.e. oseltamivir), B-cell targeting therapy(i.e. rituximab, belimumab), neonatal Fc receptor(FcRn) inhibitor, spleen tyrosine kinase(Syk) inhibitor and Bruton tyrosine kinase(BTK) inhibitor et al., although more rigorous randomized controlled trials are needed to substantiate their efficacy. In this review, we update our current knowledge on the pathogenesis and treatment of SLE-ITP.