Objective Long-term glucocorticoid use in SLE may have significant side effects; however, glucocorticoid discontinuation is occasionally associated with disease flare-ups. Therefore, we evaluated the ...
For the patient who presents with a new diagnosis of SLE, or for the one who has a flare in previously established disease, the immediate need is to achieve control of the inflammatory process.
Agents such as azathioprine, methotrexate and cyclosporine A have been used for several decades in the management of SLE, but the evidence for their efficacy in nonrenal lupus has remained limited.