Who is at risk for Lupus Nephritis? 

People who have systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) are at risk for developing lupus nephritis. SLE is more common in women than in men, and it often develops during the childbearing years. Lupus nephritis can occur at any age, but it is more commonly diagnosed in people in their 20s or 30s. Other factors that may increase the risk of developing lupus nephritis include: 

• Genetics: Certain genetic factors may make some people more susceptible to developing SLE and lupus nephritis.

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• Ethnicity: Lupus nephritis is more common in people of African, Hispanic, and Asian descent than in people of European descent. In the United States, 1 out of every 250 African American women will develop lupus. However, among all patients with SLE, the risk of developing lupus nephritis was significantly higher in men, younger individuals, and Hispanics. 

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• Gender: Women are more likely than men to develop SLE. Nine out of ten people who have lupus are women. As noted before, among those with SLE, lupus nephritis is more common in men than women.

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• Smoking: Smoking may increase the risk of developing SLE and lupus nephritis.

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• Family history: People with a family history of SLE or lupus nephritis may be at a higher risk of developing the condition.

What are the signs and symptoms of Lupus Nephritis?

Damage and inflammation of the kidneys in lupus nephritis cause a variety of signs and symptoms. Some of the common signs and symptoms include:

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1. Proteinuria: This means excessive amounts of protein in the urine, which can cause foamy urine.

2. Hematuria: This means blood in the urine, which may appear pink or red.

3. Edema: This means swelling in the legs, ankles, or feet.

4. High blood pressure: This is a common complication of lupus nephritis.

5. Fatigue: Feeling tired or weak all the time.

6. Loss of appetite: Not feeling hungry or having a decreased appetite.

7. Weight gain: Unexplained weight gain may occur due to fluid retention.

8. Skin rash: A butterfly-shaped rash on the face (both cheeks symmetrically affected) is a common sign of SLE, which can be associated with lupus nephritis.

9. Joint pain: Pain and stiffness in the joints can be a symptom of SLE.

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If you have any of these symptoms, it is important to talk to your doctor, who may order tests to check your kidney function and determine if you have lupus nephritis. Early diagnosis and treatment can help to prevent further kidney damage and improve outcomes for patients.

Will I develop kidney failure if I have Lupus Nephritis?

The risk of developing kidney failure (also known as end-stage renal disease) due to lupus nephritis varies depending on the severity of the disease and how well it is managed. With proper treatment and management, many people with lupus nephritis can preserve kidney function and avoid kidney failure. However, in some cases, kidney failure may occur despite treatment.

The risk of kidney failure is higher in people with severe or active lupus nephritis, high blood pressure, high levels of protein in their urine, or impaired kidney function at the time of diagnosis. Patients with kidney failure secondary to SLE represent 1.5% of all patients on dialysis in the United States. Other factors that can increase the risk of kidney failure include a delay in diagnosis and treatment, poor adherence to treatment, and other medical conditions that can affect the kidneys. Patients with SLE account for 3% of all kidney transplantations in the United States. 

Regular follow-up appointments with your doctor and laboratory tests are necessary to monitor kidney function and adjust treatment as needed. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment of lupus nephritis can help reduce the risk of kidney damage and improve outcomes.