Adverse changes in lipoprotein profiles were associated with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) activity and prednisone therapy; favorable lipoprotein variables occurred in those taking hydroxychloroquine (HCQ). This according to a study of sera from 52 patients over 229 clinical visits. Researchers found:

• Adverse changes were seen in lipoprotein variables with disease activity.

• For each point increase in the SLE disease activity index, there was a decrease in high-density lipoprotein (HDL) even after adjusting for corticosteroid use.

• Prednisone was associated with higher very low-density lipoprotein, low-density lipoprotein, HDL, and triglycerides.

• HCQ was associated with more favorable variables.

• GlycA levels were higher than in normal populations and increased with disease activity.

Citation: Duncan L, Winegar DA, Connelly MA, Otvos JD, Magder LS, Petri M. Longitudinal evaluation of lipoprotein variables in systemic lupus erythematosus reveals adverse changes with disease activity and prednisone and more favorable profiles with hydroxychloroquine therapy. [Published online ahead of print February 1, 2016]. J Rheum. doi:10.3899/jrheum.150437.