Belimumab for the Treatment of Early Diffuse Systemic Sclerosis: Results of a Randomized, Double ‐Blind, Placebo‐Controlled, Pilot Trial

ConclusionPatients in both treatment groups experienced significant improvements in MRSS. The median difference was greater in the belimumab group but did not achieve statistical significance in this small pilot study. Adverse events were similar between the groups. Changes in gene expression were consistent with mechanism of action and show that clinical response to treatment with belimumab is associated with significant decrease in pro‐fibrotic genes and pathways. Additional studies are needed to determine the role of belimumab in the treatment of dcSSc.This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/resolve/doi?DOI=10.1002%2Fart.40358

Source: Arthritis and Rheumatism - October 26, 2017 Category: Rheumatology Authors: Jessica K. Gordon, Viktor Martyanov, Jennifer M. Franks, Elana J. Bernstein, Jackie Szymonifka, Cynthia Magro, Horatio F. Wildman, Tammara A. Wood, Michael L. Whitfield, Robert F. Spiera Tags: Full Length Source Type: research