GlaxoSmithKline study highlights gaps in lupus treatment understanding

GlaxoSmithKline has highlighted the findings of a new international survey that demonstrates a need for better education about the most appropriate treatment approaches for lupus.

The EnABLE survey was designed to shed light on discrepancies in current approaches to managing lupus among healthcare professionals and patients, and identify barriers to improved care, in light of the lack of any universally accepted guidelines in this area.

It was revealed that many patients with systemic lupus erythematosus often self-manage their corticosteroid medication without the consent of their doctor, with many professionals also prescribing doses far exceeding the recommended clinical threshold.

The report also revealed that 37 percent of doctors did not agree that long-term treatment and management was as important as addressing immediate symptoms, while only around 40 percent of rheumatologists were aware that lupus leads to organ damage in 30 to 50 percent of patients within five years of diagnosis.

Dr Alex Liakos, global medical affairs at GlaxoSmithKline, said: "These results highlight the need for better education around the appropriate use of corticosteroids and the long-term impact of the disease, particularly given that half of patients suffer irreversible organ damage within five years of being diagnosed."

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