Lupus nephritis is one of the leading causes of mortality for patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), and patients with both SLE and end-stage renal disease have standardized mortality ratios more than 60 times that of patients with SLE with normal kidney function.1 The good news: Rheumatologists now have not one, but two approved options…
In summer 2024, two phase 3 studies were released with promising findings for the treatment of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and those with lupus nephritis. SLE Disease Activity Dapirolizumab pegol is a novel, investigational, Fc-free anti-CD40L agent for people living with moderate to severe SLE.1 The randomized, double-blind, parallel-group PHOENYCS GO trial (N=321)…
In late July 2022, the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) approved belimumab (Benlysta) for the treatment of children with active lupus nephritis aged 5 to 17 years old receiving standard therapy.1 Despite recent advances in treatment options for patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), those with kidney involvement may develop endstage renal disease and…
At a session of ACR Convergence 2024, speakers shared key elements of the new guideline on the screening, treatment and overall management of lupus nephritis in children and adults.1 This guideline attempts to balance the risks of medication side effects with the important goal of preserving kidney function. This is the ACR’s first lupus guideline…
Syphilis, an ancient disease caused by the spirochete Treponema pallidum, has been historically referred to as the great mimicker given its heterogenous presentation. Both systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and syphilis can have multi-systemic involvement. Both parvovirus B19 and syphilis have been reported to cause histologic features similar to those seen in lupus nephritis. We present…
Renal arteriosclerosis is common in patients with lupus nephritis and occurs two decades earlier than it does in people without the condition, say investigators in a study that examined the prevalence of renal arteriosclerosis in patients with lupus nephritis compared with healthy controls.1 The finding suggests that renal arteriosclerosis could be used as a biomarker…
Incoming Arthritis & Rheumatology Editor-in-Chief Dr. S. Louis Bridges Jr., MD, PhD, discusses his path to rheumatology and outlines his vision for the journal.
Patient autonomy in healthcare decisions and physician conflicts of interest are just two areas of ethical concerns that arise frequently in rheumatology. Dr. Kelly Weselman discusses ethical dilemmas and how to address them.
The bill also enhances the state’s service cancelable loan program to help address critical shortages in the healthcare workforce. Much of the language draws from model policy previously developed by the ACR.
Inborn errors of immunity may not always be easy to recognize, but rheumatologists should look out for them. Dr. Bharat Kumar shares his insights.