Topical Mupirocin Lowers Lupus Inflammation

Cutaneous lupus erythematosus (CLE), a common manifestation of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), is characterized by rashes, hair loss, and scarring caused by immune system-driven inflammation. While standard treatments include immunosuppressants and biologic drugs, patients with SLE often seek alternatives due to the burden of multiple medications.

A new study led by Dr. J. Michelle Kahlenberg, a professor at the University of Michigan Health, has explored the potential of a topical antibiotic, mupirocin, as an innovative treatment for CLE. This research builds on Kahlenberg’s previous discovery that rashes in CLE patients are often colonized by Staphylococcus aureus (staph), a skin bacterium that exacerbates inflammation.

In the trial, patients with active CLE flares were treated with mupirocin or petrolatum jelly (as a control). Samples from their nose and skin lesions were analyzed before and after treatment to evaluate bacterial abundance and inflammatory markers. Results revealed a significant reduction in lesional staph in patients treated with mupirocin. This bacterial decrease correlated with lower inflammatory signals, including a reduction in interferon-driven gene expression and skin monocytes both critical drivers of CLE.

“Mupirocin treatment showed promising results in reducing inflammation, but additional studies are needed to determine its impact on rash resolution,” said Dr. Kahlenberg.

Although still in its early stages, this study highlights the potential of topical antibiotics to complement existing lupus treatments, offering hope for patients seeking alternatives to systemic medications.

The study, published in Arthritis & Rheumatology, received funding from the Doris Duke Charitable Foundation and NIAMS. Dr. Kahlenberg and her team plan further research to confirm the efficacy of mupirocin and explore its long-term benefits.

This breakthrough provides a promising first step toward expanding treatment options for CLE patients while addressing the challenges of managing systemic lupus.

References:

1. https://www.medboundtimes.com/medicine/sniffing-our-way-to-better-health-changes-in-gene-expression-found

2. https://www.medboundtimes.com/medicine/mayo-clinic-laboratories-progentec-diagnostic-launch-lupus-blood-tests

(Newswise/DN)