Anti-B cell therapy in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus

The paper presents an analytical literature review of the use of rituximab (RTM) in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). It considers current views on the mechanisms of action of RTM, its efficacy in different organ damages in patients with SLE, particularly in those with lupus nephritis and central nervous system involvement. There is evidence suggesting that it is expedient to use RTM in patients with high activity of SLE, especially when the latter is refractory to standard therapy with glucocorticoids and cytostatics. Attention is paid to the steroidsparing effect of RTM and to the reduction of the risk of irreversible organ damages associated with high-dose prednisone. The paper discusses the possibility of using a RTM biosimilar (Acellbia) and prospects of RTM therapy for early SLE.