In a new study published in Lupus Science & Medicine, researchers explored the efficacy of using a combination of belimumab and standard immunotherapy compared to standard immunotherapy alone in children newly-diagnosed with childhood-onset lupus nephritis (cLN).
More than 100 Chinese children aged 5 – 17 with cLN were studied, with 38 receiving belimumab treatment plus standard immunotherapy and 63 receiving standard immunotherapy alone. Standard immunotherapy treatment included the use of glucocorticoids, hydroxychloroquine in combination with immunosuppressive agents which included cyclophosphamide, mycophenolate mofetil (MMF), tacrolimus or multitargeted therapy. At 12 months, more children in the belimumab group achieved a higher primary efficacy renal response (PERR), complete renal response (CRR), low lupus disease activity state (LLDAS) and DORIS remission compared to the standard immunotherapy group. Furthermore, four children in the standard immunotherapy group experienced a decline in estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR, measure of how well the kidneys are removing waste from the blood), while no children in the belimumab group experienced worsening renal function.
This is the first study to show the effectiveness of combined belimumab therapy in children with cLN. Beginning treatment with a combination of therapies may offer more substantial benefits for children with high disease activity in cLN. Learn more about caring for children and teens with lupus.
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