Glucocorticoid in systemic lupus erythematosus: the art beyond science

Glucocorticoid (GC) remains the main stay of treatment for systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) but is associated with a myriad of untoward effects. On the other hand, withdrawal of maintenance immunosuppression, including low-dose GCs, carries a risk of SLE flare.

The molecular mechanisms of GCs and their implications for dosing strategies in clinical practice are discussed. Evidence regarding withdrawal of maintenance immunosuppression in SLE is reviewed.

The initial GC regimens for different manifestations of SLE are heterogeneous, with no major randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on their efficacy and toxicities available. RCTs on withdrawal of immunosuppressive drugs in quiescent SLE are inconsistent but appear to show an increase in disease flares, with risk factors being younger age, renal disease, cessation of hydroxychloroquine, shorter duration of remission, serological activity, and an abrupt tapering regime. The lowest effective doses of GC and immunosuppressive drugs should be adopted, and the decision to withdraw immunosuppression should be individualized. Newer strategies for GC sparing, including combination therapy of immunosuppressive and biological/targeted agents, and the use of methylprednisolone pulses for initial therapy of less serious manifestations of SLE, could ameliorate the toxicities of immunosuppression and help advance to the ultimate target of drug-free remission.