Use of Belimumab in a Real-World Evidence: A case of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Refractory to Standard Therapy

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease of unknown cause with clinical and therapeutic protocols that include immunosuppressants, immunomodulators and corticosteroids, which increase the number of side effects. Belimumab (BLM), a monoclonal antibody, is a therapeutic alternative to control SLE activity and improve patients' quality of life. We report a clinical case of a 46-year-old female patient with SLE since 2016, hypertension and glomerulonephritis. The patient participated in a research protocol and is currently in the post-study period, where her quality of life and health were assessed in a real-world context, with a reduction in the Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease Activity Index (SLEDAI) and a reduction/suspension of prednisone. The patient showed a complete remission of the disease (no SLEDAI). She was also completely weaned off prednisone and remains stable. She also reported a significant improvement in her quality of life and health, with no exacerbations or need for recurrent hospitalizations, and control of laboratory values and glomerulonephritis. This demonstrates the efficacy of BLM as an adjunct in the treatment of patients with refractory SLE.