Emerging Non-Steroid Based Treatments for Autoimmune Disorders Systemic Lupus Erythematosus and Crohn’s Disease

Abstract

A condition known as an autoimmune illness occurs when the immune system of the body begins unintentionally targeting its own healthy organs. Over 80 autoimmune disorders are recognised. This paper focuses on two more commonly found autoimmune diseases, i.e. Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (Lupus) and Crohn’s disease. Lupus is a multisystem disease which can produce inflammation in the skin, joints, brain, lungs, kidney and blood vessels, and, consequently, cause damage to the affected body organs. The second one is Crohn's disease, which results in persistent digestive system inflammation.

Corticosteroids play an integral role in the treatment of Lupus and Crohn’s disease. They have powerful anti-inflammatory action and provide quick relief to patients, however, the toxicity caused by corticosteroids, leading to severe adverse effects on various body organs through infections, hypertension, hyperglycemia, myopathy, osteoporosis, especially with continued usage, continues to be an ongoing area of concern.

Considering the potential adverse impact arising from the long-term use of corticosteroids, there has been ongoing research to prevent or reduce the use of corticosteroids in the treatment of autoimmune disorders. This study aims to carry out a literature review to highlight how the expanding field of biologics is providing alternative treatment options.

Monoclonal antibodies such as Anifrolumab (for treatment of Lupus) and Ustekinumab (for treatment of Crohn’s disease) have been found to be safe as well as effective. Whilst the ongoing research in the use of stem cells for treatment of certain autoimmune diseases, in particular, Lupus has shown some positive results, there needs to be further research to assess their therapeutic use and side effects. Thus, although some alternative treatment options have been identified and even approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for patient’s use in the last few years, this continues to be an area of developing research.