Rituximab and lupus--a promising pair?

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a clinically diverse and potentially life-threatening auto-immune disease that can affect almost any organ system. Although much is still unknown regarding its pathogenesis, B cell abnormalities are thought to be central. A high relapse rate along with the toxicity associated with conventional treatments signify the need for more tailored approaches in this very heterogeneous disease. Both its mechanism targeting B cells and a relatively large number of case series and observational studies have suggested that the B cell-depleting agent rituximab could be a potent SLE drug. However, two randomized controlled trials failed to meet efficacy endpoints. Nevertheless, rituximab has continued to be used as an off-label alternative mainly in patients refractory to conventional immunosuppressive treatment. This article will review the current role of rituximab in SLE.