Challenges in treating-to-target in systemic lupus erythematosus
Mok T.M.

City University of Hong Kong
North District Hospital, New Territories, Hong Kong

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune multi-systemic disease that can affect such vital organs as the kidneys and the brain. Although the survival rate of SLE patients has dramatically improved over the past few decades as a result of the use of corticosteroids and immunosuppressants, the current treatment is associated with significant adverse effects. Both the disease itself and the side effects from treatment are associated with cumulative organ damage, which reduces both the quality and expectancy of patients’ life. The international expert group on treat-to-target in SLE has formulated recommendations with the goals to yield superior outcomes in terms of clinical course, long-term damage and functional status. The working group established four overarching principles for managing SLE patients, emphasizing the importance of contribution of the patient in the decision making, the multidisciplinary approach, the regular monitoring and adjustment of therapy with the goals towards ensuring long-term survival, preventing organ damage, optimising health-related quality of life by controlling disease activity, minimising comorbidities and drug toxicity.

Key words: systemic lupus erythematosus, treatment, remission, activity, quality of life.
For citation: Mok T.M. Challenges in treating-to-target in systemic lupus erythematosus // RMJ. 2018. № 4(I). P. 6–9.