The Molecular Mechanism of Corticosteroids for Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Patients Treatment and Its Adverse Effects

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) is a complex and multifactorial autoimmune disease characterized by various cellular and molecular aberration resulting in different phenotypes in each individual. SLE occurs worldwide, with the incidence and prevalence varies by country and geographically. Many components of the immune system contribute to the pathomechanism of SLE, where autoimmune plays a significant part. Corticosteroids have been prescribed universally as the mainstay treatment of inflammatory and autoimmune disorders for decades. Corticosteroids have been given in different preparations for treating SLE because of their anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive activities. While providing clinical benefits to patients significantly, the use of corticosteroid treatment is not without complications and its side effects related to both short and long-term administration. In this context, this review focuses on the molecular mechanism of corticosteroid treatment in SLE patients and its adverse effects.