Study of Anti-Malarials in Incomplete Lupus Erythematosus (SMILE): study protocol for a randomized controlled trial.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Onset of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is preceded by a preclinical phase characterized by expression of autoantibodies and nonspecific clinical symptoms. Hydroxychloroquine is a treatment for lupus that is widely used based on longstanding experience and a very good safety profile. Existing data suggest that treatment with hydroxychloroquine may postpone the onset of disease. However, prospective studies that prove and quantify the efficacy of hydroxychloroquine in the preclinical phase of lupus have not been done. This study will test the hypothesis that early hydroxychloroquine use can prevent accumulation of clinical abnormalities and modify immune responses that define SLE.

Methods

A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of hydroxychloroquin

SUBMITTER: Olsen NJ 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6302430 | biostudies-literature | 2018 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature