Biologics in Pediatric Connective Tissue Disorders

Abstract

With the treat to target strategy being followed across rheumatic diseases including pediatric connective tissue disorders (CTDs), there is a change in priority from saving lives to providing optimum quality of life, especially for children with these chronic diseases. Biologics, particularly Rituximab has been a useful addition in the management of refractory SLE, JDM, and ANCA vasculitis. Although trials of Belimumab in SLE and Infliximab in Kawasaki disease have shown encouraging results, they still have not been widely accepted in clinical practice due to toxicity and cost concerns. With a better understanding of these rare diseases and ongoing clinical trials enrolling children with CTD, biologics may be the first-line drugs in near future.