‘Exciting’ new lupus treatment could end need for lifelong medication

Consultants and researchers prepare to administer a breakthrough CAR T-cell therapy treatment for lupus to patient Katie Tinkler at University College Hospital in London. Photograph: Lucy North/PA

Doctors are hailing a “groundbreaking” new treatment for lupus that genetically modifies a patient’s cells to fight the autoimmune disease and could end the need for lifelong medication.

Lupus can range from mild to severe, with symptoms including joint pain, skin problems, fatigue and inflammation of major organs. Patients often have to take drugs their whole lives, ranging from ibuprofen to steroid tablets and injections, or other immunosuppressant or biological medicines.