Lupus nephropathy, also known as lupus nephritis, is a kidney disease that develops as a consequence of the autoimmune disease systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). In lupus nephropathy, the immune system accidentally damages and inflames the kidneys.
The term “lupus nephropathy” relates especially to the kidneys being affected by lupus. About 50% of people with systemic lupus erythematosus are believed to develop lupus nephropathy at some time in the course of their illness. Individual differences in kidney involvement’s severity and development are significant.
Systemic lupus erythematosus is a chronic autoimmune illness in which the immune system inappropriately attacks the body’s tissues and organs. Among other organs, lupus can harm the skin, joints, kidneys, heart, lungs, brain, and blood cells.
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Causes of Lupus Nephropathy
It can cause kidney tissue inflammation, resulting in the production of immune complexes (antibodies bound to antigens) in the kidneys. These immune complexes can harm the glomeruli, which are the filtering units of the kidneys, leading to reduced kidney function.
Lupus nephropathy, if left untreated or inadequately managed, can lead to chronic kidney disease and, at last, renal failure. Lupus nephropathy is caused by several factors, including:
Symptoms of Lupus Nephropathy
Lupus nephritis signs and symptoms include:
- Blood in the urine
- Foamy urine (caused by an excess of protein in the urine)
- High blood pressure
- Hands, ankles, or feet swelling
- High levels of creatinine, a waste product, in your blood
- Swelling or discomfort in the joints
- Muscle pain
- Red skin rash on the face
- Excess fluid in your body causes weight gain
Risk Factors of Lupus Nephropathy
In people with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), several risk factors enhance the possibility of developing lupus nephropathy. These risk factors may help in identifying people who are at a higher risk of renal involvement. The following are some of the most common risk factors for lupus nephropathy:
- Gender
- Ethnicity
- Age
- Disease duration
- Disease severity
- Genetic factors
- Certain antibodies such as anti-dsDNA (anti-double-stranded DNA) antibodies, anti-Sm antibodies, and anti-RNP (ribonucleoprotein)
- High blood pressure
Diagnosis
Your healthcare professional examines you physically, examines your symptoms, and analyses your medical background. Tests for lupus nephritis that involve blood and urine include:
- Antibody blood tests detect elevated quantities of proteins produced by your immune system.
- Kidney function tests are performed in laboratories.
- Urinalysis is a test that looks for waste and other abnormal substances in your urine.
- The urine protein test looks for protein in the urine.
A kidney biopsy may also be performed by your doctor. This is a test that looks at a little bit of tissue or a sample of cells from your kidneys. A biopsy can help your doctor identify the extent of your kidney impairment.
Treatment
The treatment for lupus nephritis focuses on preventing further kidney damage. Early detection and treatment of lupus nephritis can help prevent catastrophic harm. Lupus causes your immune system to attack your kidneys, leading them to fail. Your doctor may advise you to take an immunosuppressant to prevent this from happening. These medications decrease your immune system, making it less likely that they may affect your kidneys.
Blood pressure can be controlled with angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors and angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs). These medications also keep protein from seeping into the urine from the kidneys. Diuretics are medications that can help you get rid of excess fluid.
You may need to cut down on your sodium (salt) consumption. Eating less protein, such as meat and dairy, can also help your kidneys perform more efficiently. To create a nutritious diet specifically suited to your needs, see a dietician and your healthcare professional.
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Is There Any Diet That is Recommended For Patients With Lupus Nephropathy?
Diet is crucial in the management of lupus nephropathy since it can improve overall kidney health and lessen symptoms. Working together with a healthcare expert, such as a registered dietitian, to create a customized meal plan that addresses their specific needs is crucial for people with lupus nephropathy. The following are general dietary suggestions for people with lupus nephropathy:
- Reduce sodium Intake
- Monitor protein Intake
- Control Fluid Intake
- Maintain a balanced diet
- Limit phosphorus and potassium
- Consider Omega 3 fatty acids
