Long-term effects of combined B-cell immunomodulation with rituximab and belimumab in severe, refractory systemic lupus erythematosus: 2-year results

Abstract

Combined B-cell targeted therapy with RTX and BLM prevented full B-cell repopulation including DN B cells, with concomitant specific reduction of SLE-relevant autoantibodies. The observed immunological and clinical benefits in a therapy-refractory SLE population prompt further studies on RTX + BLM.