To determine if routine serologic markers and baseline disease activity can help identify lupus patients likely to benefit from biologic therapies.
Key Findings:
Biologic therapies showed higher clinical response rates compared to standard treatment.
Response varied across patient subgroups, with the strongest association in patients with serologically active disease.
Patients with both anti-dsDNA antibodies and low complement levels had better responses to biologics.
Higher baseline disease activity correlated with improved response to biologics.
B-cell activating factor-targeting therapies demonstrated the most consistent efficacy.
Biologics were associated with a modest reduction in serious adverse events.
Interpretation:
Routine laboratory markers and disease activity measures may help identify lupus patients who are more likely to respond positively to biologic therapies.
Limitations:
Findings may reflect improved disease control rather than a direct reduction in treatment-related risks.
Rates of herpes zoster were slightly higher among patients receiving biologics.
Conclusion:
The study suggests that specific serologic markers and disease activity assessments can guide treatment decisions for lupus patients considering biologic therapies.
