[Targeted therapies for connective tissue diseases and vasculitis]

Area of Science:

• Rheumatology
• Immunology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Connective tissue diseases and vasculitis are complex autoimmune conditions.
• Conventional treatments may be insufficient for refractory or severe cases.
• Targeted therapies represent a growing area of treatment innovation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current role and recommendations for targeted therapies in specific connective tissue diseases and vasculitis.
• To highlight promising agents and areas for future research.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of expert recommendations and clinical trial data.
• Focus on targeted biologic agents and small molecule inhibitors.
• Analysis of treatment efficacy in lupus, Sjögren's disease, myositis, systemic sclerosis, and various vasculitides.

Main Results:

• Belimumab and rituximab are recommended for refractory/severe lupus.
• Rituximab is considered for difficult Sjögren's disease and myositis.
• Nintedanib shows promise for systemic sclerosis-associated pulmonary fibrosis.
• Rituximab is a preferred treatment for granulomatosis with polyangiitis and microscopic polyangiitis.
• Tocilizumab is recommended as a steroid-sparing agent for giant cell arteritis.

Conclusions:

• Targeted therapies are increasingly vital in managing autoimmune diseases.
• Specific agents are established for certain conditions, with others under investigation.
• Further clinical trials are necessary to expand the therapeutic landscape.