Treat to Target in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: Validation of the Lupus Low Disease Activity State

The focus of this PhD is on developing treat to target endpoints for systemic lupus erythematosus, an autoimmune multisystem disease that has devastating outcomes for afflicted patients, the majority of whom are women of childbearing age. The Lupus Low Disease Activity State (LLDAS) represents an attainable clinical treatment endpoint, attainment of which has now been proven to be associated with reduction in disease flares and accrual of irreversible end organ damage. The development of this endpoint has the potential to change clinical practice, as well as change the design and outcome in clinical trials of new therapies.