Induction and Maintenance Immunosuppression Treatment of Proliferative Lupus Nephritis: A Network Meta-analysis of Randomized Trials

Evidence for induction therapy for lupus nephritis is inconclusive based on treatment effects on all-cause mortality, doubling of serum creatinine level, and end-stage kidney disease. MMF, calcineurin inhibitors, or their combination were most effective for inducing remission compared to IV cyclophosphamide, while conferring similar or lower treatment toxicity. MMF was the most effective maintenance therapy.