LP-197 Association between steroid therapy and IGRA Result in systemic lupus erythematosus

BackgroundSystemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease caused by disturbance in immune tolerance to self-antigens, leading to multiorgan inflammation. SLE causes a high risk of tuberculosis (TB) infection in SLE. In SLE pathogenesis, T cells play a major role to amplify inflammation by secreting pro-inflammatory cytokines. Interferon-γ release assay (IGRA) is commonly used to diagnose latent TB infection (LTBI). Many immunosuppressive agents are potent inhibitors of T cells and may impair the interferon-γ response. This study was aimed to determine the effect of steroid therapy on the performance of IGRA in SLE.MethodsThis experimental study included 50 female SLE. Data such as age, disease duration, SLE disease activity index (SLEDAI), steroid therapy doses, and Body Mass Index (BMI) were obtained. Steroid therapy doses were categorized as high-dose (≥7.50 mg) and low-dose steroids (