CD40LG and rheumatoid arthritis: B cell depletion in RA setting leads to ameliorated endothelial function, along with a decrease of disease activity,29, 30 carotid intima media thickness and atherosclerosis progression.31 Moreover, RTX therapy might have positive effects on subclinical atherosclerosis, as early as at 6 months, associated to the reduction of IgM RF, an independent predictor of cardiovascular mortality.32 In relation to previous reports, our study further delineates the influence of RTX on the regulation of the vascular system in the context of SLE and RA.