Toll-like receptor 9 in systemic lupus erythematosus, impact on glucocorticoid treatment.

Aim: To assess TLR9 expression in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients, its correlation with disease activity, and impact of TLR9 expression on the response to oral glucocorticoids.

Methods: Twenty-five active SLE, 15 inactive, and 15 control subjects were included. Anti-DNA, ANA, C3, C4, and TLR9 mRNA expressions were assessed.