Abstract
Better understanding of the pathogenesis of selected glomerulopathies and the availability of targeted interventions directed at selected cytokines and T and B lymphocytes enabled the gradual introduction of the biologic (targeted) drugs to their therapy. Rituximab is currently indicated for the treatment of patients with relapsing ANCA-associated vasculitis and refractory lupus nephritis and belimumab in patients with active (autoantibody-positive) systemic lupus erythematosus not responding to standard treatment.
Only further studies and longer follow-up monitoring can uncover what is the real contribution of the targeted treatment to the putatively improved outcome of these patients.