The Choice Between Belimumab And Anifrolumab: Analysis Of A Monocentric Cohort

This study analyzed the factors influencing the choice between belimumab (BEL) and anifrolumab (ANI) in treating Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) in a cohort of 61 patients. ANI was more frequently chosen for patients with a chronic-active disease course and active cutaneous manifestations, including subacute lupus and alopecia with lupus hair. In contrast, BEL was preferred for those with a relapsing-remitting disease course and active arthritis, particularly non-deforming and non-erosive arthritis. The study found no significant differences in corticosteroid use or hydroxychloroquine between the groups, though more ANI patients used methotrexate due to skin involvement. The findings suggest that the clinical phenotype primarily guides the choice of biologic drug, highlighting the need for predictive biomarkers to enhance personalized treatment in SLE.