Efficacy analysis of hydroxychloroquine therapy in systemic lupus erythematosus: a study on disease activity and immunological biomarkers.

Background: Hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) is a widely prescribed medication to patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), with potential anti-inflammatory effects. This study was performed to investigate the efficacy of HCQ therapy by serial assessment of disease activity and serum levels of proinflammatory cytokines in SLE patients.

Methods: In this prospective cohort study, 41 newly diagnosed SLE patients receiving 400 mg HCQ per day were included.