Lupus Nephritis

Lupus nephritis is a type of kidney inflammation caused by systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), a chronic autoimmune disease that can affect various parts of the body, including the skin, joints, and organs.

Causes and Risk Factors

Lupus nephritis occurs when the immune system produces antibodies that attack the kidneys, leading to inflammation and damage. The exact cause of lupus nephritis is unknown, but it is believed to be related to a combination of genetic, environmental, and hormonal factors.

Risk Factors

• Family history of lupus or other autoimmune diseases
• Female sex (lupus nephritis is more common in women than men)
• African American, Hispanic, or Asian ethnicity
• Previous kidney disease or damage

Symptoms

The symptoms of lupus nephritis can vary from person to person and may include:

• Hematuria (blood in the urine)
• Proteinuria (excess protein in the urine)
• Edema (swelling) in the legs, ankles, or feet
• High blood pressure
• Weight gain due to fluid retention
• Fatigue
• Joint pain or swelling

Diagnosis

Lupus nephritis is typically diagnosed through a combination of:

• Medical history and physical examination
• Urinalysis (urine test) to check for blood, protein, or other abnormalities
• Blood tests to evaluate kidney function and detect antibodies associated with lupus
• Kidney biopsy to examine the kidney tissue for inflammation and damage
• Imaging studies (e.g., ultrasound, CT scan) to assess kidney size and structure

Treatment

The treatment of lupus nephritis depends on the severity of the disease and may involve:

• Corticosteroids to reduce inflammation and suppress the immune system
• Immunosuppressive medications (e.g., cyclophosphamide, mycophenolate mofetil) to prevent further kidney damage
• Antihypertensive medications to control high blood pressure
• Diuretics to reduce fluid retention and swelling
• Dialysis or kidney transplantation in severe cases of kidney failure

Prognosis

The prognosis for lupus nephritis varies depending on the severity of the disease, the effectiveness of treatment, and the presence of other health complications. With proper treatment, many people with lupus nephritis can achieve remission or significant improvement in their symptoms.

Complications

Lupus nephritis can lead to several complications, including:

• Kidney failure (end-stage renal disease)
• High blood pressure and cardiovascular disease
• Anemia and other blood disorders
• Bone disease (e.g., osteoporosis) due to corticosteroid use