Does B cell depletion have a role to play in the treatment of systemic lupus erythematosus?

Abstract
B cell dysfunctionand pathogenicautoantibodyformationare thoughtto be criticalin the pathogenesis of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). In this review we will summarize the results of attempts to utilize B cell depletion, based on the use of a chimeric monoclonalantibody(MAb) specific for human CD20, rituximab, for the treatment of patients with SLE.