B cells have emerged as key components of the immune system involved in the pathogenesis of rheumatic diseases. While the precise mechanisms of immunopathogenesis have not been identified, autoantibody production, cytokine elaboration, and T-cell interactions have been implicated. B-cell–directed therapies are currently being evaluated in diverse autoimmune diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, Sjögren’s syndrome, and others. Several therapeutic agents targeting B cells that employ a variety of therapeutic strategies, including monoclonal antibodies directed against B-cell epitopes or cytokines involved in B-cell maturation, have been studied in clinical trails. Expert faculty will present didactic material and moderate interactive discussions to facilitate the application of science to clinical practice.

Target Audience

This activity is intended to provide rheumatologists, immunologists, and other health care professionals who treat patients with autoimmune rheumatic diseases with the latest data pertaining to B-cell–directed therapies.