[Sdudy on effect of tripterygium on plasma IL-18 content in patients with lupus nephritis].

Objective: It is to study the effect of tripterygium(TW) on the plasma IL-18 content in patients with lupus nephritis(LN) and its treatment value.Method: The patients with LN treated with prednisone were divided into active groupand inactive group with active index.The active group was given tripterygium additionally.The changing of plasma IL-18 and release of nephritis were observed after treatment for three months.Result: The level of plasma IL-18 lowered down obviously,urinary protein decreased,LN activity index,hematuria and renal function improved.Conclusion: Tripterygium caninhibitroduction of plasma IL-18.It has definite treatment value on controlling LN activity.