Evaluation of epratuzumab as a biologic therapy in systemic lupus erythematosus.

B cells play a key role in the pathogenesis of systemic lupus erythematosus. Some of the current biologic therapies target B cells or B-cell activating factors. Epratuzumab is a humanized monoclonal antibody, which targets CD22 on B cells. This review focuses on the safety and efficacy of epratuzumab in systemic lupus erythematosus based on the information from various published clinical trials and presentations at international meetings. Epratuzumab acts as a B-cell modulator through inhibition of B-cell receptor signaling. It has been shown to be efficacious in open-label and Phase I and Phase II randomized controlled trials. The drug has steroid-sparing properties and treatment is associated with significant improvements in Health Related Quality of Life and its safety profile is comparable to placebo.