Efficacy of mizoribine-tacrolimus-based induction therapy for pediatric lupus nephritis.

BACKGROUND: Recent advances in the management of lupus nephritis (LN) have also contributed to a favorable outcome in patients with pediatric-onset LN. Nevertheless, we believe that a more effective and less toxic treatment is needed to attain optimal control of pediatric-onset LN. METHODS: Seven consecutive children with biopsy-proven LN (four with class III/IV and three with class V) received multitarget induction therapy consisting of mizoribine (MZR), tacrolimus (Tac), and prednisolone (PDN). They were prospectively evaluated at three, six, and 12 months, and at the latest observation point after a mean period of 32 months. Post-treatment renal biopsy was performed in two patients with class III/IV. RESULTS: Despite gradually tapering the dose of concomitantly administered PDN, a significant improvement compared with baseline values was observed in the urinary, serological, and clinical assessment measures even at three months of treatment, and the favorable changes persisted throughout the treatment period in most of the study participants except for one. In two patients who underwent post-treatment renal biopsy, a marked histologic improvement was confirmed. No serious adverse events were observed. CONCLUSIONS: Multitarget therapy may be an attractive option for the treatment of pediatric-onset LN. Further studies involving a larger number of patients are needed.