Lupus nephritis

Lupus nephritis (LN) is an inflammation of the kidneys caused by systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and childhood-onset systemic lupus erythematosus which is a more severe form of SLE that develops in children up to 18 years old; both are autoimmune diseases. It is a type of glomerulonephritis in which the glomeruli become inflamed. Since it is a result of SLE, this type of glomerulonephritis is said to be secondary, and has a different pattern and outcome from conditions with a primary cause originating in the kidney. The diagnosis of lupus nephritis depends on blood tests, urinalysis, X-rays, ultrasound scans of the kidneys, and a kidney biopsy. On urinalysis, a nephritic picture is often seen with presence of red blood cell casts, red blood cells and proteinuria however a nephrotic picture may also be seen depending on the classification of lupus nephritis present. New therapies for LN are being developed and tested with significantly improved morbidity and mortality in the past 4 decades.