Lupus Nephritis

What is lupus nephritis?

Lupus nephritis is a kidney disease that results from systemic lupus erythematosus. Lupus is an autoimmune disease that causes your body to mistakenly attack your cells and organs.

When your kidneys are under attack, your risk for kidney damage increases. This damage can worsen over time and ultimately lead to kidney failure. Kidneys that aren’t working properly can’t filter excess fluids and waste from your blood.

Women in their child-bearing years are at the highest risk for lupus. However, the disease affects men and children too. Lupus nephritis can develop in adults and kids and is more common in men than women.

When should I seek treatment for lupus nephritis?

You should schedule a diagnostic evaluation for lupus nephritis at Sun City Kidney, PA if you have symptoms like:

• Fever
• Joint pain
• Muscle pain
• Red skin rash
• Swelling (edema) in your face, legs, feet, or ankles

Hypertension (high blood pressure) can also be a side effect of lupus nephritis.

The team offers several on-site tests to confirm your diagnosis, including urine tests and bloodwork. Your provider may also request a kidney biopsy, a procedure to remove a piece of your kidney tissue for further evaluation under a microscope.

Based on the results of your tests, your provider tailors a treatment plan to preserve the function of your kidneys.

How is lupus nephritis treated?

The goal of treating lupus nephritis is to suppress your immune system to stop the attack on your kidneys. The team also focuses on reducing inflammation in your kidneys to lower your risk for more serious kidney damage.

Your treatment may involve medications like corticosteroids that suppress your immune system. If you have hypertension, you might also need other medications to lower your blood pressure.

If you develop chronic kidney disease or kidney failure because of lupus nephritis, your provider can discuss your options for dialysis. Dialysis uses a machine to filter waste and excess fluids from your blood when your kidneys can’t.

The kidney specialists at Sun City Kidney, PA can help you create a healthy, low-salt diet plan to manage your kidney disease and blood pressure.

To schedule a diagnostic evaluation for symptoms of lupus nephritis, call Sun City Kidney, PA today or book an appointment online.